Club Atlético San Isidro

On the hallowed grounds of Club Atlético San Isidro, a legacy unfolds. This isn’t just a sports club. It’s a cathedral of athletic achievement, echoing with the triumphs of generations. Club Atlético San Isidro, often called CASI, was officially founded on October 24, 1902. But the seeds of this institution were sown earlier, in the hearts of young men who simply loved to play. Imagine a group of boys kicking a football at the bottom of a hill, their games constantly interrupted by the overflowing Río de la Plata. This land, graciously lent to them by María Varela de Beccar, was their sanctuary. As more enthusiasts joined their ranks, a dream began to take shape: to create a club of their own. With the support of local figures like Manuel Aguirre, Club de Foot-ball San Isidro was born. Around the same time, another group, mostly British railway employees, formed the San Isidro Athletic Club. Destiny intervened, and on that fateful October day in 1902, these two groups merged at the Vignoles Hotel. Club Atlético San Isidro emerged, a testament to the unifying power of sport. Club Atlético San Isidro quickly made its mark on the football scene, rising to the Primera División by 1906. For 26 seasons, they battled giants like Racing Club and Boca Juniors. They even clinched international glory with the Tie Cup in 1912 and several domestic cups. But with the advent of professional football in 1931, CASI chose to remain amateur, their commitment to the spirit of the game unwavering. While football may have been their first love, rugby became their enduring passion. The first rugby team was formed in 1908 but disbanded shortly after. It was revived in 1917, thanks to club president Rafael Cullen. This marked the beginning of a dynasty. CASI claimed an astounding 13 consecutive URBA championships, establishing themselves as a force to be reckoned with. A pivotal moment in CASI’s history arrived in 1935. A seemingly harmless incident, involving players removing their trousers at a post-match dinner, led to suspensions and a rift within the club. This resulted in the formation of a rival club, the San Isidro Club, known as SIC. The rivalry between CASI and SIC is legendary, adding another layer of intrigue to the club’s rich tapestry. Today, Club Atlético San Isidro boasts a remarkable 33 URBA titles and a Nacional de Clubes championship. They have become synonymous with rugby excellence in Argentina. But CASI is more than just rugby. It embraces a diverse range of sports, from field hockey to Gaelic football, embodying the true spirit of athleticism. As you stand here, before the gates of Club Atlético San Isidro, you’re not just observing a sports club. You’re witnessing a living testament to passion, resilience, and the enduring power of community.