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TEFL Training In Costa Rica | Updated: 02/21/2023

Sports in Costa Rica

Written by International TEFL Academy Costa Rica

Soccer is obviously the most important and favorite sport of Costa Ricans, especially with the national team making it to the World Cup in Brazil in 2014 and doing much better than anyone expected them to.  It was such an exciting and overwhelming experience for the country and all who were here, and we don't anticipate anyone to stop talking about it anytime soon!  Boys and girls start kicking a ball almost as soon as they start walking, and now they dream of being like Keylor Navas, Bryan Ruiz and Joel Campbell.

The professional league in Costa Rica is heavily followed and entertaining as well.  The biggest teams (La Liga of Alajuela, Saprissa, Heredia and Cartago) have fans who live and breathe everything related.  The league has two seasons within the year, and there are always games happening.  Of course you can watch them in a local bar with passionate ticos, but we also recommend taking the time to go to a game at a stadium!  Such a great cultural experience!

Running and cycling have become quite popular as of late.  The streets are littered with runners and cyclists on the weekends, and stores catering to these athletes are popping up in every town.  Professionals like Nery Brenes and Andrey Amador inspire ticos to keep at it!  Multiple competitions are happening every weekend as well.  Sign up for one to meet more locals!

Will I be able to Join a Gym in Costa Rica?

Basketball is not nearly as popular as it is in other parts of the world.  On the international level, the women of Costa Rica usually compete better than the men, but nationally, the men's professional league is quite popular.  And if you didn't already know, Barva is home to the national champions, Ferreteria Brenes!  Make sure to check out a game while you are here with us.

Boxing and martial arts, like taekwondo, have many participants and loyal fans as well.  Small clubs and gyms can be found around the country and are training athletes to follow the likings of professionals like Hanna Gabriel.

Water is obviously a big part of life in Costa Rica, so it is no surprise to hear that swimming and surfing are other popular sports.  While traveling to the coasts, you will run into many open-water swimming competitions and surf camps or contests.   Don't miss the opportunity to try your hand at catching a wave!

Not as popular in Costa Rica as it is in other Latin American countries, baseball still has many fans and players.  Many ticos follow the professional league in the US, and if you are in San Jose on the weekend, check out the fields in La Sabana park to watch some riveting amateur games.

Many ticos also enjoy participating in and watching car racing. For years many have made weekends in La Guacima a tradition, and recently a track in Guanacaste has opened and promises to be family-friendly as well. 

As you can see , you will find much variety in the sports being played and talked about in Costa Rica.  If you are interested in athletics, you should find no problem in connecting with the locals in this way!  

Register for your 4-week, onsite TESOL course today!  



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