SALT, Spain – Saturday marks a special derby day in Salt, a city in the province of Girona, Catalonia. The match between Penya Bons Aires and Salt Afrocat FC represents more than just local pride; it highlights a struggle for recognition and access for a relatively new club striving to integrate into the community. While the game at the Municipal Pla de Salt (kick-off at 6:00 PM local time) may lack the intensity of a high-stakes playoff battle, the circumstances surrounding Salt Afrocat FC add a compelling layer to the fixture.
The club, formed in recent years, finds itself in a unique position as one of only two amateur teams remaining in Salt this season, alongside Penya Bons Aires. However, despite being officially registered in the city, Salt Afrocat FC has been unable to secure access to any municipal fields for training or matches. This situation has forced the team to seek accommodations elsewhere, currently utilizing the facilities at Bell-lloc thanks to an agreement with a local school.
“We are a registered entity in Salt and a project created to do work not only sporting but social and leisure towards young people, mostly of foreign origin, who have the will to integrate into the locality where they live and it turns out they cannot,” explained Javi Salamero, the club’s president. “those in charge do not want us to take root.”
Salamero’s frustration stems from what he perceives as a lack of support from local authorities. He revealed that the club held meetings with local councilor Jordi Viñas and the former mayor, but were met with resistance. According to Salamero, the former mayor even suggested the club disband, citing insufficient facilities to accommodate all local teams. “The former mayor invited us directly to fold since he said they did not have facilities to support the clubs and teams in the municipality. Precisely this season, have the two amateur teams from Salt and Coma-Cros withdrawn? Come on… We see it as a comparative grievance. There are first and second class citizens in Salt,” Salamero added.
The situation has prompted the club to request a meeting with the new mayor, Cristina Alarcón, but as of today, they have not received a response. This lack of communication has led the club to consider more drastic measures to raise awareness of their plight.
“We have been denied a field several times and seeing how we are ignored, the alternative that remains is to go one day to train in front of the Town Hall. Perhaps it is the only place in Salt where these Saltencs, whom some see as second-class, could train,” Salamero stated, highlighting the feeling of marginalization within the community.
Despite the off-field challenges, Salt Afrocat FC remains focused on their performance on the pitch. The team currently finds itself in a strong position to qualify for the playoffs in the Quarta Catalana Grup 4, according to standings available on the Federació Catalana de Futbol (FCF) website. Current standings show Salt Afrocat FC in 27th place with 17 wins, 8 draws, and 3 losses, accumulating 62 points.
Adding an fascinating dynamic to the club is the involvement of Josep Delgado, the former owner of Girona FC, who serves as the club’s secretary. This connection to a higher-level professional club underscores the ambition and potential within Salt Afrocat FC, despite the current obstacles.
The derby against Penya Bons Aires, currently in 22nd place with 18 matches played, 7 wins, 1 draw, and 10 losses, represents a crucial opportunity for Salt Afrocat FC to solidify their playoff aspirations. BeSoccer provides further information on the team’s overall performance and statistics.
The broader context of Catalan football reveals a complex landscape of amateur and professional leagues, overseen by the Federació Catalana de Futbol (FCF). The FCF, founded in 1900, is responsible for organizing and regulating football at all levels within Catalonia. Details about Penya Bons Aires E, including contact information and club officials, are available on the FCF website.
The situation facing Salt Afrocat FC raises important questions about inclusivity and access to sporting facilities for all members of the community. As the club continues to navigate these challenges, their performance on the field and their ongoing efforts to secure a permanent home will be closely watched by football fans in Salt and beyond.
The match against Penya Bons Aires is scheduled for Saturday at the Municipal Pla de Salt. The outcome could have significant implications for Salt Afrocat FC’s playoff hopes, but the larger story revolves around a club fighting for its place within the heart of its community.
What’s Next: Salt Afrocat FC will continue their push for a playoff spot, with their next fixture to be announced on the FCF website. The club is also awaiting a response from the new mayor, Cristina Alarcón, regarding their request for a meeting to discuss their concerns.
What are your thoughts on Salt Afrocat FC’s situation? Share your comments below and let us know what you think!
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