Heroes of Petanca seeks to breathe new life into the ancient sport of petanca, transforming it into a cross-generational, inclusive activity that fosters connection and creates third spaces for neighbourhoods.

Heroes of Petanca is a comprehensive branding and community-building project designed to revitalise the sport of Petanca, making it relevant for a new generation while honouring its rich heritage. Our mission was to transform the perception of the sport, fostering cross-generational connections and reclaiming public spaces for inclusive community activities.

We developed a unique visual identity, including a custom typeface and a graphic system inspired by the sport’s parabolic throw, to bridge the gap between tradition and modernity. This branding was brought to life at a landmark amateur tournament at Club Petanca La Cènia in Barcelona, where 80 newcomers played for the first time, fostering meaningful connections with veterans. A custom ball case and exclusive championship rings served as powerful symbols of community pride and belonging for participants.

To support the event, we created a pocket guide for newcomers and an in-depth guide for continued learning, complemented by a lifestyle magazine filled with interviews, club histories, and tournament recaps. A dedicated website, www.heroesofpetanca.com, was launched to serve as a central hub for the community.

The success of the tournament proved that our design strategy not only preserved the sport but also created a dynamic platform for people from all walks of life to connect. Heroes of Petanca is more than a design project; it’s a blueprint for how thoughtful design can strengthen communities and ensure public, inclusive activities continue to thrive in our urban environments.

Lakis Sobyra, Designer
Gonçalo Salgado, Designer