La Araucanía launches rugby clinics for adolescents in state care

A new initiative has launched in the La Araucanía region of Chile to introduce rugby to adolescents living in state-protected residences. The program is a collaborative effort between the Servicio de Protección Especializada a la Niñez y Adolescencia and the Club de Rugby Rucamanque de Temuco.

The rugby clinics focus on foundational movements, group dynamics, and practical activities designed to provide new recreational experiences. Beyond physical exercise, the initiative aims to foster social inclusion and strengthen the connection between residential care facilities and local community organizations.

Regional authorities, including Paulina Fernández, the regional ministerial secretary of social development and family, have highlighted the sport as a tool for protection and community integration. Jaime Millar, acting director of the Servicio de Protección Especializada, noted the importance of involving civil society organizations to enrich the lives of youth in state care.