All About Ajax Amsterdam

The sport of football, or soccer, as most Americans refer to it as, has evolved over the years, becoming an important element of the culture and tradition of many countries throughout Europe. While the popularity of football has been steadily rising throughout the world, the sport has always been the most celebrated game in Europe. Having been created in England, football quickly spread throughout the Eastern Hemisphere, eventually making its way overseas through European colonists. While there are dozens of football clubs throughout Europe, Ajax Amsterdam is one of the most beloved teams by fans not only in the Netherlands but all over the world. The long-standing history of the team paired with their revolutionary concept of “total football” are just a few of the reasons why they continue to receive the support from so many. Learn more about Ajax Amsterdam, also referred to as AFC Ajax, below.

History

AFC Ajax dates back to the year 1900 when the team was first founded and then later accepted into Dutch Football. Eighteen years later, the team won their first National Championship under the guidance of their trainer, Jack Reynolds. Reynolds innovative coaching and leadership led the team for over 35 years. His methods and training later built the foundation for the clubs famous youth training program.

During the 1930s, the team continued to dominate, adding on wins to their record. In 1934, Ajax moved to their new stadium, “De Meer,” where they would stay for the next 60 years as their power and ranking continued to grow. 

Ajax continued to grow into a force to be reckoned with. The 1960’s and ’70s ensued with more years of successful seasons. The team brought home their first title in a European Champions Cup in 1971, followed by three consecutive wins in the years to follow. 1972 was a big year for Ajax. The team won the Dutch Cup, the National Championship, the European Champions Cup, and the World Cup. 

After an exciting win in both the European and World Champions in 1995, the team left De Meer stadium for their new home for the more spacious Amsterdam ArenA. The news was hard for fans, as many years of memories were made at De Meer. Throughout their history and into the present day, Ajax Amsterdam perseveres through trial and tribulation and remains on top, delivering exceptional performances to their fans.

Total Football movement

In the 1970s, Ajax Amsterdam introduced the theory of “total football” to the sport of football. The theory breaks down the sport into an art, noting the importance of fluidity, movement, and intelligence. Total football involves a player taking the place of another player who has moved on the field. It requires tactical ability and ensures that a team is moving swimmingly to keep the structure. The continued perpetual movement to create space dictates that there are no predetermined roles, as an outfielder can quickly take over another position.