For Communist countries, sport was more than just athleticism. It was a patriotic duty, a chance to represent Communism on an international stage, and show the West that it was a superior way of life.
With the 20th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall approaching, it is timely to look back on the era of Communism and the role of sport.
Prof James Riordan, the author of the acclaimed football book, Comrade Jim: the Spy who played for Spartak, will deliver a lecture entitled ‘Sport and Identity in Russia and the former Soviet Union’ in the Huston School of Film & Digital Media, NUI Galway, on Friday July 3 at 10am.
Prof Riordan of the University of Worcester is a polymath, Professor of Russian Studies, a children’s author, broadcaster, sports historian, sports coach, and a former member of Spartak Moscow FC.
His seminar will be of interest to all with an interest in sport and identity, as well as revealing the many and varied experiences that can result from a lifetime of learning, teaching, and researching about Russian language and culture.
Entry to the seminar is free and all are welcome. For more information contact Seán Crosson on 091 - 495687 or [email protected] and Phil Dine on 091 - 492391 or [email protected]
