As Nice’s second-largest sports federation, the FSGT offers a wide range of activities. From gymnastics to pétanque, and including mountain biking and tennis! For an affordable price, members can switch between clubs from day to day as they desire. A true association made for the people, FSGT aims for entertainment and the development of sports. Its guiding principle: a friendly sport that is accessible to the majority.
A MILITANT ASSOCIATION
Founded on December 24, 1934, the Labor Sports and Gymnastics Federation is a popular movement. Always carrying progressive ideas from the working class — without any political ties — it participated in the liberation of Nice and protested against racism and the imprisonment of Nelson Mandela.
Even today, it continues to fight. This time for sporting facilities. The president, Jean-Claude Poiriet, sums up the situation: “We have no access to the Hyères velodrome or the future Grand Stade of Nice. At least to my knowledge. It’s a pity. These facilities are reserved for the elite. Why shouldn’t amateurs have the right to them? We sometimes organize sports events. Some succeed, others do not.”
Regarding football, the federation even had to refuse between 1000 and 1500 registrations due to the lack of fields.
FOR THE PLEASURE OF PLAYING
But beyond its ideological stance, the FSGT continually places individuals at the very heart of its activities. Thus, the social, educational, and cultural aspects are emphasized. Having a good time, enjoying oneself, learning—these are just some of the goals set by the federation. The most concrete example is the “Carnival of Snow”. Every participant must be dressed in costume to ski. At stake: a competition for the best costume. Medals and the spirit of competition are secondary. The family and friendly atmosphere is truly what FSGT aims for. Sharing an activity while building relationships, what could be more interesting?
TIME FOR CHANGES
All the more so because the federation is not limited to this search. J.C. Poiriet is delighted: “Here, innovation is honored. Every year, the FSGT clubs are completely free to transform or invent a discipline.” It was thus that they pioneered “baby swimming”, “artificial climbing walls”, or “seven-a-side football.”
The year 2006 looks equally promising. On the agenda are the “surfers’ boarder-cross”, a “ski then mountain bike” duo, sort of a biathlon. The same goes for a new formula triathlon. And that’s not all! In March, the French skiing championship will take place, and in May, the mountain biking championship. Furthermore, a departmental assembly will be created. Its goal: to establish projects, outline new perspectives.
And why not give a significant role to children in sports? Ideas are plentiful. The president has a slogan to symbolize the action of this federation: “FSGT, it’s sport in freedom”.
