Resilience and Resistance: The Power of Place and Community in Soccer

by Jon Scaccia May 5, 2024

In a world where sports are often seen as mere business ventures, a remarkable story unfolded in Columbus, Ohio, illustrating the deep bond between a soccer club and its community.

This tale centers around the Columbus Crew SC and their supporters’ fierce battle to prevent their beloved team’s relocation to Austin, Texas. The movement, symbolized by the hashtag #SaveTheCrew, not only reflects a fight for a soccer team but underscores a broader narrative about cultural roots, community belonging, and resistance against the encroaching forces of globalization and commercialism in sports.

Understanding the Power of Place

The concept of ‘place’ carries profound significance beyond mere geographic location. It encompasses the shared experiences, cultural heritage, and collective identity that bind people to their local environments. In the case of Columbus Crew SC, the stadium and the team itself are not just physical entities but symbols of community pride and historical continuity. The supporters’ outcry against the relocation was not merely about losing a team but about preserving a cherished community asset that embodies their city’s spirit and passion.

The movement leveraged the Crew’s emotional and cultural significance as a central strategy, harnessing social media’s power to unite and mobilize supporters. The hashtag #SaveTheCrew became a rallying cry, drawing attention far beyond Columbus and resonating with soccer fans worldwide who value the sport’s traditional ethos over corporate interests.

Cultural Entrepreneurship in Action

At the heart of this movement lies the concept of cultural entrepreneurship, where supporters transformed their cultural assets—traditions, loyalties, and local identity—into tools of resistance and persuasion. This approach helped craft a compelling narrative that engaged not only local fans but also garnered the support of influential stakeholders and the global soccer community.

This narrative of resistance went beyond mere protest; it was a strategic and entrepreneurial use of cultural resources to influence public opinion and decision-making processes. By vividly illustrating what was at stake—not just a soccer club, but a community’s heart and soul—the movement highlighted the intrinsic value of cultural and social capital in the face of economic and corporate pressures.

Implications for Soccer Coaching and Player Development

The #SaveTheCrew movement provides valuable lessons for soccer coaching and player development. It emphasizes the importance of integrating local cultural values and community engagement into sports management and coaching strategies. Recognizing and fostering a sense of place can enhance team cohesion, fan loyalty, and overall club stability.

Coaches and sports organizations can draw from this case study to understand better the dynamics of community support and its potential impact on player performance and morale. Engaging with local traditions and values can create a more supportive and motivating environment for players, enhancing their connection to the team and its fans.

A Model of Community Engagement and Resistance

The Columbus Crew SC’s story is a testament to the power of community engagement and cultural entrepreneurship in sports. It serves as a model for other sports teams facing similar challenges, providing a blueprint for leveraging local culture and community support to counteract the forces of commercialization and homogenization in global sports.

Conclusion

The #SaveTheCrew movement is not just a success story of saving a soccer team; it is a testament to the enduring power of place and community in the modern world. It challenges the prevailing trends of globalization in sports and illustrates how deeply rooted cultural values can mobilize effective resistance against seemingly overwhelming forces. As we move forward, this case serves as a reminder of the critical role of community and cultural identity in preserving the true spirit of sports.

Advance Your Soccer Knowledge: 

Join the elite circle of soccer aficionados who appreciate the game beyond the field. ‘This Week in Soccer’ bridges the gap between complex soccer analytics and practical application. By subscribing to our newsletter, you’ll gain access to exclusive content, infographics, and forums that will enrich your understanding and love for soccer. Embrace the science and strategy of soccer today. Subscribe and transform your perspective!

About the Author

Jon Scaccia is a youth soccer coach and translational scientist. He has worked with the Exeter United Soccer Club for over five years, focusing on U5 development. In his day job, he works in data evaluation and implementation science.