We invite you to join ARA’s Soccer, an opportunity to play with ALMA staff, promote respect, foster camaraderie, and enhance teamwork and collaboration.

All ALMA staff, as well as ESO and AUI personnel, are welcome to participate. Laura Gómez, Activity Coordinator and Astronomer with the Data Management Group, explains: “The cost of renting the field is covered thanks to ARA’s financial support from April to December. Outside this period, the cost is shared among the participants of that day’s event.”

The fields are designed for the recommended seven-a-side format. Occasionally, when more than 20 participants sign up for a specific day, mini-tournaments are organized.

10 YEARS OF THE HISTORY

This initiative began in 2015 when a group of staff expressed interest in playing soccer, and a suitable location relatively close to ALMA SCO was found. Since then, participants have created stories, traditions, and unforgettable moments. The group has also competed in the Mixed Baby Soccer Championship organized by ECLAC for two consecutive years.

Participant Insights

Alex Valenzuela, IT Support Specialist II

“This type of activity helps to de-stress and socialize with colleagues in a more relaxed environment, without pressure and with a spirit of collaboration rather than competition. You can play at your own pace—whether passing the ball or running the field—depending on your condition. Everyone, from younger to senior participants, is welcome. And it’s not just ALMA staff; external collaborators working with us or with ESO join too, making it diverse in every sense.”

Francisca Solis, Software Engineer Trainee

“I find this a very beneficial opportunity to foster camaraderie among the different people working at ALMA. I also believe it strengthens the sense of belonging to a group, in this case, to our institution, yielding multiple benefits that translate into work, such as fostering a team vision to face various challenges. Moreover, I think it’s incredibly enriching to share with colleagues from various areas and positions in a different context, like in the field. Getting to know them through their game strategies or how they celebrate a goal is a beautiful aspect unique to team activities like this.”

Mariluz Jara, General Services Supervisor

“The benefits of any sport include physical health improvements, but it also strengthens workplace relationships, creating bonds that enhance the office environment and communication. It provides an opportunity for more open and effective communication outside the work context. I believe that collective sports like soccer have benefits reflected in workplace climate, integration, and overall commitment. Bonds can be formed beyond the responsibilities of our roles.”

How can I sign up?

To register, contact:
Laura Gómez: [email protected], +56 9 5347 5582
Víctor González: [email protected], +56 9 8403 9780 

Where are the matches played?

Matches are held at Club Vitacura (formerly Club Lo Cañas), located at Avenida San Josemaría Escrivá de Balaguer 5000, Vitacura.

Be part of this exciting initiative—remember, the best stories happen on the field!