An informal conversation between Mike Hammer and young people from a neighborhood in Santa Clara sparked a discussion about the sports preferences of the new generations in Cuba: is soccer overtaking baseball?
The U.S. Embassy in Cuba posted images this Monday of the head of its diplomatic mission interacting with young people from the La Chirusa neighborhood in Santa Clara during his tour of Villa Clara.
"Talking with the kids from the La Chirusa neighborhood in Santa Clara, they told me that they prefer soccer over baseball. Is that how it is in Cuba today, that soccer is more popular?", commented Hammer.
The diplomat added in a relaxed tone: "I'm sure those watching a game at Quintín Banderas would say 'the ball'."
Hammer's observation touches on a debate that has accompanied sports on the island for years, where baseball —popularly known as "la pelota"— has historically held a privileged place, while soccer has gained followers, especially among the younger population.
The post quickly sparked comments about the debate between soccer and baseball.
Some users agreed with the youth from Santa Clara: "Yes, football has gained ground over baseball. Worldwide. And Cuba hasn't been left behind," wrote one person, while another stated that "football is the most played sport in Cuba right now."
Others took advantage of the images to highlight Hammer's closeness to the community: "I believe the connection with the people and the youth is genuine," commented one user, while another expressed gratitude that the diplomat ventures "where they need it most."
There were also those who highlighted that the head of the mission approached both seniors and children alike, and they described his way of visiting neighborhoods and talking directly with residents as positive.
"Thank you for never forgetting the common people, and especially those in greatest need," noted one of the comments.
The reactions also included messages from residents and emigrants with personal ties to Santa Clara, some of whom recognized places shown during the visit and expressed their gratitude that Hammer explored those areas.
The meeting at La Chirusa is part of a visit by Hammer to Villa Clara, which also had a strong social and humanitarian component over the weekend.
On Sunday, Hammer met in Santa Clara with representatives from Cáritas and the Catholic Church to learn how the distribution of humanitarian aid sent by the United States to vulnerable families in the province was progressing.
That same day, the mission chief personally visited the homes of beneficiaries in Quemado de Güines and Barrio Cotorra, where he spoke with elderly individuals and others who had received food and hygiene items.
Additionally, the diplomat's stay in Villa Clara has occurred amidst a campaign of attacks against Hammer and U.S. assistance spread from officialist profiles, questioning the content and quality of some delivered products.
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