This week marked the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month in the USA, a celebration of the contributions and affect of Hispanic tradition to the nation’s achievements, tradition, and historical past.
Undoubtedly, Hispanic tradition has performed an enormous a part of the successes of MAN v FAT Soccer in its first 12 months, with a spread of nationalities represented throughout our leagues in Florida, New York Metropolis and Texas.
As this 12 months’s Hispanic Heritage Month will get into full swing, we caught up with Danny Ocano, one in all our MAN v FAT South Miami members.
Danny, a 50 12 months previous father of six and grandfather of 1, has been married for twenty-four years and, after some current well being issues, determined MAN v FAT provided an ideal resolution.
He gave us the lowdown about Hispanic Heritage Month and rather more!
1) Please are you able to inform our viewers – particularly these within the UK – about Hispanic Heritage Month, and the way you rejoice it there?
Hispanic Heritage month acknowledges the historical past, tradition, and vital contributions of Hispanic and Latino People to our nation. The observance coincides with the independence days of a number of Latin American international locations and goals to honor the achievements and impression of individuals from Spanish-speaking backgrounds. The month serves as a time to rejoice the wealthy range of Hispanic and Latino cultures, from their traditions in household and meals to their roles in literature, arts, activism, and extra.
2) Inform us a bit extra about your individual heritage and the way necessary it’s to you and your id
Honduran tradition is a wealthy mix of Indigenous, Spanish, and African influences, marked by a powerful emphasis on household, community-focused festivals, and vibrant music and dance, notably the energetic punta model. The tradition is characterised by heat, pleasant individuals who worth loyalty, particularly to household. Conventional delicacies options staples like beans, rice, and tortillas, whereas non secular traditions, particularly Catholic observances like Holy Week, are central to group life – our nation holds communities from all walks of life and socioeconomic positions.
Soccer or higher referred to as Futbol, enjoys immense recognition in our group on account of its accessibility, cultural significance, and unifying spirit. Firstly, soccer requires minimal tools—a ball and an open house—making it straightforward for folks of all ages and backgrounds to take part, so whether or not you’re a third world nation, or a world energy anybody can take pleasure in, particularly amongst youth.
Secondly, our group’s various inhabitants, with roots in international locations the place soccer is a cultural cornerstone, brings a deep ardour for the game, handed down by generations and celebrated throughout world occasions just like the World Cup. As a baby I performed within the dust within the sand within the grass, as I grew I performed for colleges, group Faculty, then as a father or mother I taught and coached the sport. Soccer runs in our blood.
4) How have you ever discovered your expertise on this system to date?
I’m deeply grateful for this unbelievable weight reduction program, which not solely helped me shed some kilos however it’s also bringing folks collectively, superb camaraderie and team-building experiences. The assist and reference to everybody concerned is making my journey really rewarding! I’ve been on a well being decline as of late, little to no power, and this program has given me the motivation to not quit however to battle.
5) What has it been like assembly males such as you on this system and the way has your league group advanced?
Assembly different males engaged on weight reduction has been eye-opening. We’re all navigating related problem – balancing work, household, and health whereas combating cravings and previous habits. What we share is a drive for higher well being, whether or not it’s to maintain up with youngsters, increase confidence, or simply really feel higher day-to-day. Most guys I’ve linked with discover accountability helps, like sharing tips about fast exercises or meal preps that don’t suck. We additionally bond over the psychological facet – pushing by plateaus and staying constant even when life will get hectic. It’s much less about competitors and extra about having one another’s backs.
6) Which soccer groups do you assist and the way typically do you get to observe your nationwide staff?
I symbolize my metropolis and my nation. I observe most on line or on TV when doable…can’t actually afford these World Cup ticket costs!
My groups: Inter Miami with cheat code Messi, Honduras nationwide staff, US ladies’s & males’s Nationwide groups. Going throughout the pond you discover Manchester Metropolis, a fan since 1999. Lastly due to my grandfather I maintain a particular place in my closet and coronary heart for Brazil & Germany.
Exterior of soccer I symbolize Miami Dade County… Dolphins, Hurricanes, Warmth, Marlins & Panthers.
Hey guys, should you’re interested by getting more healthy, I can’t advocate our ManVFat program sufficient. It’s not nearly dropping weight—it’s about feeling stronger, sharper, and extra energized for all times. After I began, I used to be skeptical, and insecure, however what hooked me was the true, sensible system and camaraderie.
We share ideas, snort concerning the occasional pizza slip-up, and hold one another on observe. It’s a judgment-free zone the place we rejoice each step ahead, whether or not it’s dropping a number of kilos or simply feeling higher in your individual pores and skin. Be part of us, and let’s make getting wholesome one thing you’ll really take pleasure in! JUDGEMENT FREE ZONE.
