By Staff / image from archive: Pablo Barrera 

QUETZALTENANGO – The history of football in Quetzaltenango is more than just a timeline of matches; it is a legacy of identity that has shaped the spirit of the "City of the Star." From its early 20th-century origins to its consolidation as the leader of regional football, Club Social y Deportivo Xelajú Mario Camposeco represents the passion of an entire region.

Roots of Champions

Sporting success in the city began long before the formation of the current club. Historical records confirm that the Quetzaltenango National Team won three national championships during an early golden era: October 26, 1919; December 26, 1920; and March 15, 1922.

From this foundation emerged the América team, which later merged with the Germania team to become the Asociación Deportiva Independiente (ADIX). It was during this transitional stage that figures like Mario Camposeco began writing their legend, even participating in historic matches such as the 1939 clash against Municipal de Retalhuleu.

Foundation and the Legacy of Mario Camposeco

February 24, 1942, marked the official birth of Club Social y Deportivo Xelajú. Founded by a visionary group led by Augusto Calderón, Pedro Figueroa, and the Guillén brothers, among others, the team was born with the mission of worthily representing the city of Quetzaltenango.

The central figure of this history is undoubtedly Mario Camposeco López. Regarded as both a founder and a star player, his talent took him to the National Team and led him to bolster clubs like Municipal in international matches. Following his tragic death in 1951, both the club and the stadium adopted his name as a perpetual tribute that continues today.

A Stadium Built on History

The current Mario Camposeco Stadium was inaugurated on August 25, 1950, as the "Estadio Escolar" (School Stadium) during the government of Juan José Arévalo. Originally designed for academic activities and owned by the municipality, the venue evolved into a dedicated football stadium, eventually removing its 400-meter track to provide a more intimate and vibrant experience for the fans.

Seven Stars of Pride

Over the decades, the "Superchivos" have proven their championship pedigree, breaking the capital city's hegemony on seven memorable occasions:

•   1962, 1980, 1996, 2007, 2012, 2023, and 2024.

This trajectory makes Xelajú MC a fundamental institution for understanding Guatemalan sports. Because our history is meant to be shared!