Soccer is an incredibly popular sport in Haiti, but have you ever wondered about the way it’s organized or why it’s played so passionately? Let’s explore these questions further.
In Haiti, summer means soccer season! Our culture values this sport, and we take part in a championship game every year. During our summer break, we have more free time, and a group leader in the village organizes the soccer games. These leaders reach out to different groups to gauge interest in forming teams for the summer. We could have anywhere between 6 to 32 teams, and every afternoon we play a game. These teams can be organized in various ways, such as groups from different schools, churches, or specific areas in the village. To ensure everyone feels respected and to prevent any quarrels, we have many rules in place. The official games are held in a designated area that is chosen beforehand.
Soccer is not only a sport but also a social activity for some who enjoy watching the game. It provides a source of entertainment in the afternoons and an opportunity to connect with others. Many dress up for the occasion and have fun with their friends. Others come to support their favorite team and engage in friendly banter with opposing fans. Some teams even perform a dance before the match. As the championship progresses and the number of teams dwindles, the atmosphere becomes more intense. Unfortunately, this can lead to negative behavior such as yelling, fighting, and even rock throwing. These disputes can escalate into larger conflicts between teams or communities that last for days.
Soccer is an incredibly popular sport in Haiti, adored by most of its population for its beauty. Whenever different teams play across the globe, people gather around radios to listen to the games. The moment a goal is scored, everyone shouts G-O-O-O-A-A-A-L-L-L! This sport is more than just a game; it provides a much-needed distraction during summer vacations and fills our hearts with happiness and joy. As we walk towards the soccer field and hear the DJ playing music, and see our friends, we can forget for a while all the pain and suffering in our lives, even if only for a moment.
