D. La Serena

Deportes La Serena, commonly known as D. La Serena, is a professional football club based in La Serena, Chile. Founded on November 9, 1955, the club has a rich history spanning over six decades in Chilean football. The team's primary colors are green and white, and they play their home games at the Estadio La Portada, a stadium with a seating capacity of over 18,000 spectators.

D. La Serena has spent most of its history in the Chilean Primera División, the top tier of Chilean football, although it has also experienced periods in the Primera B, the second division. The club's performance has varied over the years, with notable highs and lows. However, it has always been recognized for its commitment to developing young talent, with many players going on to have successful careers both domestically and internationally.

The club's greatest achievement came in the 1987 season when they finished as runners-up in the Primera División, their highest ever league position. Despite not having won the top-tier league title, D. La Serena has had success in other competitions. They have won the Primera B title on four occasions, most recently in 2019, which marked their return to the top flight after a seven-year absence.

D. La Serena's fan base, known as the "papayeros," is passionate and loyal. They have stood by the club through thick and thin, always providing a vibrant atmosphere at the Estadio La Portada. The club's mascot, a green dinosaur named "Dino," is a popular figure among fans and often features in the club's promotional activities.

Over the years, D. La Serena has been home to several notable players and coaches. Among them is Miguel Ponce, a former Chilean international who had a successful playing career before turning to coaching. Ponce led the team to the Primera B title in 2019, earning them promotion to the Primera División.

In recent years, D. La Serena has focused on strengthening its youth academy, aiming to nurture the next generation of football talent. The club's commitment to youth development is evident in its numerous collaborations with local schools and community organizations.

Despite the challenges and competition, D. La Serena remains a significant force in Chilean football. The club's history, its commitment to youth development, and its passionate fan base make it a unique entity in the landscape of Chilean football. As D. La Serena looks to the future, it carries with it the hopes and dreams of its fans, and the legacy of those who have contributed to its rich history.