by Alex Morton, Oakland University
In Spain and specifically in Oviedo, fútbol is an extremely valued culture; this brings a sense of community to the people of the city. People of all ages gathering in a bar to watch a game brings people together that would not necessarily meet for any other reason. When there is an important game on, suc
h as Oviedo versus Gijón, many people pack in a bar or head to the stadium to watch it. Because it is the team of the area everyone in the bars will have the same alliance to the Oviedo team. These people cheer together, they win or lose together, and they celebrate together. This has a huge effect on the community of the people in the city and the neighborhoods. A bond can be formed between team mates, and the same can be said between fans. This bond also creates community with in the various neighborhoods of Oviedo.
Also, often times people will go to the same bar that is “just down the road or around the corner” for each game. This allows the people to meet the people in their neighborhoods, and to make a connection with them that is further than just a hello. Overall, it can be said that fútbol is something that allows for people of all ages to come together to form a sense of community within the city of Oviedo.
