Abstract
This paper explores the concept of Hemlè, meaning “fighting spirit” or “bravery” in the Bassa language, and its role in shaping the identity of the Indomitable Lions, Cameroon’s national football team. The study examines how this cultural concept embodies the team’s resilience and how it is reflected in the perceptions of players, fans, and the media. By analysing the historical evolution of the Indomitable Lions, the study highlights how Hemlè has become central to both their football identity and national unity. A qualitative approach was employed, involving semi-structured interviews with former and current players, football experts, and fans. Content analysis of media reports and football documentaries was conducted to trace the evolution of Hemlè within the context of Cameroonian football. The study also examined cultural narratives to understand how Hemlè resonates with national values and identity. This study demonstrates that Hemlè transcends football, symbolising broader cultural and national values in Cameroon, particularly resilience, determination, and unity. The findings highlight the importance of cultural concepts like Hemlè in sports, suggesting that football teams can serve as symbols of national identity and unity in multicultural nations. This research also contributes to the understanding of how sports influence cultural and national identity, offering insights into the role of collective narratives in shaping perceptions of national teams.
Presenters
Siméon Boris NguéhanSenior Lecturer of Psychology, Educational Psychology, University of Buea - Cameroon, South-West, Cameroon
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
Sporting Cultures and Identities
KEYWORDS
HEMLE
