How is soccer evolving in rural areas? A case study from Isère.
Dubois, Gabriel
How is soccer evolving in rural areas? A case study from Isère. - 2025.
44
This socio-historical study aims to shed light on the evolution of a form of leisure within a social space that features little in the scientific literature. It examines the evolution of football clubs in the rural, mountain plateau territory of Matheysine (Isère). Three distinct periods are observed. The present period is characterised by numerous club disappearances and mergers, as well as the creation of new clubs. While the connection between the local socio-economic space and the fates of football clubs is acknowledged, we demonstrate that more global factors need to be considered in order to understand their realities. Moreover, we emphasise that the production of the distinctive features and operation of each club is complex and reveals strategies for adapting to a changing environment. We believe that the production of these symbols and the operation of the clubs remain accessible to working-class populations and contribute to a process of territorialization and patrimonialization.
How is soccer evolving in rural areas? A case study from Isère. - 2025.
44
This socio-historical study aims to shed light on the evolution of a form of leisure within a social space that features little in the scientific literature. It examines the evolution of football clubs in the rural, mountain plateau territory of Matheysine (Isère). Three distinct periods are observed. The present period is characterised by numerous club disappearances and mergers, as well as the creation of new clubs. While the connection between the local socio-economic space and the fates of football clubs is acknowledged, we demonstrate that more global factors need to be considered in order to understand their realities. Moreover, we emphasise that the production of the distinctive features and operation of each club is complex and reveals strategies for adapting to a changing environment. We believe that the production of these symbols and the operation of the clubs remain accessible to working-class populations and contribute to a process of territorialization and patrimonialization.
Réseaux sociaux