Sports and Dictatorship in Nicaragua. Soccer (1937-1942) and Athletics (1937-1941)

Abstract

The objective of this article is to reconstruct the historical trajectory of soccer and athletics in Nicaragua between 1937 and 1942. This is why a historical investigation will be carried out. To achieve the previous goal, the required information will be obtained in newspapers such as La Noticia, La Prensa and Novedades. The practice of soccer in Nicaragua during the period 1937-1942 was concentrated in the Pacific area, mainly in the capital Managua, but also around cities such as León, Chinandega, Granada and Diriamba where the capital from sugar and coffee activities was concentrated, apart from being connected by railway and where the main primary and secondary educational centers where that sport was played were located. The execution of athletics in Nicaragua between 1937-1941 was located in the cities of Masaya and Managua. The athletes came from educational and military centers, had embryonic training in inappropriate places and did not have state support. The latter influenced the discouragement of soccer players and athletes. The poor results of the 1938 national athletics team demonstrate the lack of support from the Somoza García regime. This political stance meant that soccer and athletics had little modernization and little development.