This week marked the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month in america, 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 yr, with a spread of nationalities represented throughout our leagues in Florida, New York Metropolis and Texas.
As this yr’s Hispanic Heritage Month will get into full swing, we caught up with Danny Ocano, one in every of our MAN v FAT South Miami members.
Danny, a 50 yr outdated father of six and grandfather of 1, has been married for twenty-four years and, after some latest well being issues, determined MAN v FAT provided an ideal resolution.
He gave us the lowdown about Hispanic Heritage Month and far 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 Individuals to our nation. The observance coincides with the independence days of a number of Latin American nations and goals to honor the achievements and influence of individuals from Spanish-speaking backgrounds. The month serves as a time to rejoice the wealthy variety 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 personal heritage and the way vital it’s to you and your id
Honduran tradition is a wealthy mix of Indigenous, Spanish, and African influences, marked by a robust emphasis on household, community-focused festivals, and vibrant music and dance, significantly the energetic punta type. The tradition is characterised by heat, pleasant individuals who worth loyalty, particularly to household. Conventional delicacies options staples like beans, rice, and tortillas, whereas spiritual 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 often called Futbol, enjoys immense recognition in our group as a result of its accessibility, cultural significance, and unifying spirit. Firstly, soccer requires minimal gear—a ball and an open area—making it straightforward for individuals of all ages and backgrounds to take part, so whether or not you’re a third world nation, or a worldwide energy anybody can take pleasure in, particularly amongst youth.
Secondly, our group’s various inhabitants, with roots in nations 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 grime within the sand within the grass, as I grew I performed for colleges, group School, then as a mother or father I taught and coached the sport. Soccer runs in our blood.
4) How have you ever discovered your expertise on this system up to now?
I’m deeply grateful for this unimaginable weight reduction program, which not solely helped me shed some kilos however it is usually bringing individuals collectively, wonderful camaraderie and team-building experiences. The help 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 surrender however to combat.
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 preventing cravings and outdated habits. What we share is a drive for higher well being, whether or not it’s to maintain up with youngsters, enhance 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 help and the way typically do you get to comply with your nationwide staff?
I symbolize my metropolis and my nation. I comply with 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, for those who’re fascinated 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. Once I began, I used to be skeptical, and insecure, however what hooked me was the actual, sensible system and camaraderie.
We share ideas, snicker in regards to the occasional pizza slip-up, and maintain one another on monitor. It’s a judgment-free zone the place we rejoice each step ahead, whether or not it’s shedding just a few kilos or simply feeling higher in your personal pores and skin. Be part of us, and let’s make getting wholesome one thing you’ll truly take pleasure in! JUDGEMENT FREE ZONE.
