To Aarhus Kommune,
My name is Benedikt Matysek, I’m 32 years old and originally from Germany. Through this message, I’d like to express both my enthusiasm for the development plans and how meaningful the wakeboarding club, Aarhus Watersports Complex (AWC), is for the area and has been to me. The development plans sound exciting and represent a valuable enrichment for the area and the city as a whole. Creating housing, connecting Aarhus Ø more closely with the city, and, importantly, offering green spaces and cultural as well as leisure activities, is without a doubt a great asset.
When I first moved to Aarhus two years ago, many people advised me not to move to Aarhus Ø, saying “there’s not much going on” and that it’s “not really part of Aarhus.” I listened and settled elsewhere, a decision I’ve come to regret, especially after discovering AWC. From my own experience, from conversations with friends, and from speaking with tourists in my customer-facing job in Mejlgade, I can say that AWC brings fantastic energy to the area and adds life and culture to the neighbourhood.
As someone new to Denmark, the club, the sport, and its community helped me greatly, despite limited resources, to enjoy life by the coast and on the water. AWC has been a key part of my social, cultural, and personal integration. It wasn’t just about wakeboarding. Through events and everyday conversations, I was able to practice Danish naturally, often learning more than in formal language classes. I gained a better understanding of Danish culture, made friends, and connected with nature. AWC gave me more than a sport, it gave me a sense of belonging and made Aarhus feel like home.
I’m truly glad to see the club included in the development plans. At the same time, I’d like to advocate for a full-size cable, which I believe would be a further enrichment. It would increase accessibility, spontaneity, and openness, benefiting club members, curious newcomers, and guests alike. While I admire the current 2.0 system, it can be limiting due to high demand. A full-size cable would make the experience even more inviting and the sport, as well as the club, including all the benefits that come with it, more accessible.
Thank you very much for considering my message.
Best regards,
Benedikt Matysek