AD Carmelita
- Leagues Played
- Costa Rica Primera Division 221 Costa Rica Segunda 198 Costa Rica Cup 5 Club Friendly List 1
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- AD Carmelita Women
Wikipedia - A.D. Carmelita
Asociación Deportiva Carmelita is a Costa Rican football team playing in the Segunda División. The team is based in Barrio El Carmen, Alajuela, Costa Rica and their home stadium is Rafael Bolaños Stadium in El Coyol, Alajuela
History
El Carmen
Founded as Costa Rica on 20 October 1948 by Manuel Guillén Fernández, the club joined the Costa Rican Third Division in 1949 and changed its name to Carmen Asociación Deportiva or just El Carmen de Alajuela a year later. They spent a few years in that league before reaching the second division in 1953 and on 9 April 1958 they debuted in the Primera División de Costa Rica against Alajuelense.
1961 League title dispute
They won one championship in 1961, when the big clubs left the Federación Costarricense de Fútbol and founded their own ASOFUTBOL league and the title was contested between three club only: Carmen, Uruguay de Coronado and Gimnástica Española. However, the ASOFUTBOL teams returned to the league and their league winners Herediano were named champions only to recognize Carmen's title 40 years later.
Carmelita
From 1968 through 1975 they played in the third tier of the Costa Rican football pyramid again and from 1975 through 1991 they were in the second division except for one season in the top division in 1983. Renamed Carmelita, they won promotion to the Premier Division after Pérez Zeledón and Generaleña merged. In 2009 they dropped down again after 16 years in the Primera, only to bounce back again in summer 2012 after beating Orión in a promotion/relegation play-off.
The team's home matches are held at the Estadio Alejandro Morera Soto, a venue that resonates with the energy of devoted supporters. AD Carmelita is recognized for its commitment to developing local talent, often promoting young players from their youth academy to the first team. The club's playing style is characterized by a blend of technical skill and tactical discipline, making them a challenging opponent on the field.
Throughout its history, AD Carmelita has achieved various accolades, including league titles and cup victories, solidifying its place in the annals of Costa Rican soccer. The team's motto reflects its dedication to excellence, teamwork, and community engagement, making it not just a sports club but a vital part of the local culture. With a focus on both competitive success and fostering a love for the game, AD Carmelita continues to inspire future generations of soccer players and fans alike.