The Luksic Foundation Opens Applications for the 2026 Sports Schools Program

Only one in four children in Chile considers themselves physically active, and 47% live in neighborhoods with high levels of violence—realities that directly impact their well-being and development. In light of this situation, the Luksic Foundation’s Sports Schools aim to be safe spaces for play, learning, and social interaction, where movement and physical activity are combined with the development of social-emotional skills for life.

Through these workshops, children acquire skills that enable them to better identify and manage their emotions, develop empathy and concern for others, build positive relationships, and effectively deal with complex situations.

Since 2019, the program has supported more than 3,000 children and adolescents in municipalities across the Metropolitan Region and Antofagasta, with the goal of improving their well-being and equipping them with life skills. Currently, the program has five field hockey schools in Antofagasta, Peñalolén, La Florida, Estación Central, and Independencia; and 13 soccer schools in Antofagasta, El Bosque, Estación Central, Independencia, La Florida, La Pintana, Lo Prado, Peñalolén, Puente Alto, and Renca. Those selected will be able to attend free training sessions twice a week and will be provided with a full set of equipment, including uniforms and sports gear.

The schools—which are coeducational and serve children ages 7 to 13—take a non-competitive approach, with activities designed to make all participants feel safe, motivated, and valued. Teachers receive specialized training to develop skills such as self-regulation, frustration tolerance, and conflict resolution, teaching students how to win and lose without fear, while building confidence and teamwork.

Those selected will be able to attend free training sessions twice a week and will be provided with all the necessary equipment, including uniforms and sports gear.

“Today we know that sports can be much more than just physical activity. It’s a gateway for young people to learn to recognize and manage their emotions and to interact with others in a positive way. This learning has an impact that extends far beyond the field: it can improve their academic performance and shape the course of their lives,” says Rosario Donoso, director of sports at the Luksic Foundation.

According to data collected by the program, 35% of parents report that their children have a hard time staying calm when they’re stressed, and 27% note difficulties in controlling their emotions when they’re upset. That is why the Sports Schools also view families as key partners, incorporating Positive Parenting workshops for caregivers with the goal of providing them with parenting strategies and thereby reinforcing at home what is taught in each sports workshop.

Daniel Cancino, a representative of the La Florida Soccer School, explains that what he values most “is the spirit you feel there.” He says that his son Cristóbal “has learned about teamwork, managing his emotions, and understanding that winning or losing is part of the game. It doesn’t matter if they win the championship: what’s important is supporting one another, showing solidarity, and putting yourself in someone else’s shoes.”

How do I apply?

The registration process will take place throughout February and must be completed by the parent or legal guardian using the online form available at fundacionluksic.cl. Spots are limited, and once registration has been confirmed by the Foundation’s team, those selected will be notified of the training days and times, which will always take place after school hours.

All information about the schools and related activities will be posted on the official website of Luksic Foundation.