Although football cheering is a social phenomenon that is now widely codified in almost every corner of the world, it is often branded as anomic. Despite this, it often transcends mere sporting boundaries and goes beyond mere sporting enthusiasm to become an integral part of local identity, history and tradition, fostering a sense of community belonging and pride.By examining different expressions of support, from collective practices in stadiums to individual manifestations of fandom, this presentation highlights football's central role in a specific contest, Taranto, a city in the south of Italy. A key aim is to illustrate the complex relationship between football fandom and social cohesion. It will show how football serves both as a platform for the expression and negotiation of local identities and as a mirror reflecting wider issues of social inclusion, identity and societal change.Drawing on interviews, field observations and cultural analysis, this study provides a comprehensive exploration of the experiences of Taranto supporters. A key aim of the presentation is to extrapolate general theories of sports fandom from this specific case study. By focusing on the unique context of Taranto, the presentation aims to contribute to a broader understanding of the mechanisms through which sports fandom can influence community dynamics, social identity and cultural practices. This approach promises to offer insightful perspectives on the universal aspects of sports fandom, highlighting its powerful impact on society at large.