The New York City Fields of Calcio Libero: Where Protagonists Activate Counter-Hegemony

Author

• Olivia Soderini, CUNY Graduate CenterFollow

Date of Degree

6-2026

Document Type

Master's Capstone Project

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Program

International Migration Studies

Advisor

David Brotherton

Subject Categories

Migration Studies | Political Theory | Sociology | Sports Sociology | Sports Studies | Urban Studies

Keywords

Praxis, Pickup Soccer, Protagonismo, Immigration, Commodification of Football, Sociology of Sport, Poetry, Interculturalism, Creative Research Methods, Organic Intellectuals

Abstract

Derivative from a deeply rooted calcio (“football”/ “soccer”) passion, with years of associated empiricism in diverse contexts, as well as from a profound intellectual interest in examining (im)migratory trends through interdisciplinary lenses, stems the development of this project’s topical focus and multi-dimensional argument. My calcio experiences, further combined with my interest in and knowledge of political and critical theory, served as the converged impetus of recognizing what already exists and is thriving: (im)migrant protagonism and counter-hegemony by way of New York City (“NYC”) calcio libero.[1] This project embarks on a creative autoethnographic and analytical journey to explore pickup’s peculiarity in NYC, namely its counter-hegemonic elements, developed and continuously activated by individuals with (im)migrant backgrounds, and with meaningful and profound (im)migratory and ethno-cultural experiences that they carry from their home countries.

Amidst the increasing institutionalization and industrialization of football, reflective of hegemonic, neoliberal and oligarchical forces, NYC calcio libero thrives as a non/de-institutionalized and emancipatory form by way of its activated counter-hegemonic elements. By continuing to engage in pickup, players demonstrate an active resistance against the commodification, commercialization, and exploitation of football that often accompany the purpose of enhancing power and control through neoliberal deceit. It will be argued that amidst such simultaneous expansion yet decline of football, protagonism and the counter-hegemonic elements of NYC calcio libero demonstrate a continuous praxis that can pave the way for counter-hegemony.

[1] Calcio libero can be translated into what is known as pickup soccer or pickup football.

Recommended Citation

Soderini, Olivia, "The New York City Fields of Calcio Libero: Where Protagonists Activate Counter-Hegemony" (2026). CUNY Academic Works.
https://academicworks.cuny.edu/gc_etds/6746