Championing University Athletics 
The Liga Atlética Interuniversitaria (LAI) is a non-profit sports institution that organizes and celebrates a comprehensive sports program among Puerto Rico’s universities. Since its inception in 1929, LAI has been dedicated to fostering an environment of healthy and responsible competition among academic institutions, promoting camaraderie, and guiding young athletes toward excellence.
A Legacy of Athletic Excellence
Over the decades, LAI has expanded its membership to include 17 universities, encompassing approximately 180,000 students. The organization’s vision of promoting and regulating sports and fostering camaraderie among them continues to be the guiding force in developing student-athletes on the island.
Pioneers and Founding Institutions
LAI’s foundation was laid by visionary leaders such as Cosme Beitía Sálamo, the athletic director of the University of Puerto Rico (UPR), who collaborated with representatives from the College of Agriculture and Mechanical Arts (now UPR Mayagüez) and the Polytechnic Institute of Puerto Rico (now Interamerican University of Puerto Rico) to reorganize university competitions. This collaboration led to the creation of the Intercollegiate Athletic Association in 1929, marking the beginning of organized university sports on the island.
Diverse Athletic Programs and Competitions
LAI offers various sports programs, including basketball, baseball, tennis, volleyball, swimming, and track. Over the years, the organization has continually evolved, incorporating women’s competitions formally in 1969 and expanding to include various disciplines such as softball, cross country, judo, table tennis, weightlifting, cheerleading, beach volleyball, and taekwondo. This inclusivity ensures equal opportunities for all student-athletes to showcase their talents.
Collaborations and Community Engagement
LAI collaborates with numerous educational institutions across Puerto Rico, both public and private. These partnerships have been instrumental in promoting sportsmanship and academic excellence among student-athletes. The organization’s commitment to community engagement is evident through its various programs and events that unite students, faculty, and the broader community in celebrating athletic achievements.
Honoring Athletic Legends
LAI has a rich history of recognizing and honoring outstanding athletes who have significantly contributed to university sports. In 2024, the organization immortalized its second class of sports legends, including notable figures such as Angelita Lind Soliveras, a distinguished long-distance runner; Raymond Dalmau Pérez, a celebrated basketball player; and Marie-Lande Mathieu Michel, an exceptional sprinter. These individuals have left an indelible mark on Puerto Rican sports history.
Notable Alumni and Their Contributions
LAI has been the nurturing ground for numerous athletes who have excelled in their respective fields and contributed significantly to sports and the community:
- Angelita Lind Soliveras: Born in Patillas, Puerto Rico, Angelita began her studies at the Interamerican University of Puerto Rico in 1977. She dominated cross-country events for four consecutive years and excelled in the heptathlon in 1981. In her debut at the 1978 Justas, she set records in the 800 and 1,500 meters. Her outstanding performances earned her a place in the Puerto Rican Sports Hall of Fame in 2000.
- Marie-Lande Mathieu Michel: Originally from Haiti, Marie-Lande moved to Toa Baja, Puerto Rico, at a young age. She attended the College of Agriculture and Mechanical Arts of Mayagüez and became one of LAI’s great sprinters. Debuting in 1977, she amassed 14 medals: ten gold, two silver, and two bronze. She was the first pentathlon event winner and named the most valuable athlete of the 1977 LAI Justas.
- Raymond Dalmau Pérez: Hailing from Yauco, Puerto Rico, Raymond debuted with the Tigres of the Interamerican University of Puerto Rico. In 1971, he became the top scorer with a record of 275 points and an average of 30.5 points per game, leading his team to an undefeated championship. In subsequent years, he continued his stellar performance and was inducted into the Puerto Rican Sports Hall of Fame in 1993.
- Fernando Luis Báez: Born in Adjuntas, Puerto Rico, in 1941, Fernando competed for the Pioneers of the Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico, starting in 1960. He secured three championships in weightlifting from 1960 to 1962. He was the first Puerto Rican athlete to win a gold medal in the Pan American Games, achieving this feat in Winnipeg, Canada 1967. He was inducted into the Puerto Rican Sports Hall of Fame in 1977.
- Marilda Juliá Sánchez: Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, in 1965, Marilda was a standout tennis player for the Juanas of the College of Agriculture and Mechanical Arts of Mayagüez. She led her team to interuniversity championships in 1985, 1986, and 1987, where she also served as the team’s coach. Notably, she won a bronze medal at the World University Games.
Encouraging Support and Participation
LAI’s enduring success is a testament to its unwavering dedication to nurturing athletic talent and promoting academic excellence. As a non-profit organization, LAI relies on the support of volunteers and donors to continue its mission. Community members are encouraged to visit LAI’s official website and social media platforms to stay informed about upcoming events, volunteer opportunities, and ways to contribute. By supporting LAI, individuals can play a vital role in shaping the future of university sports in Puerto Rico.
CONTACT Liga Atlética Interuniversitaria 
Telephone: (787) 892-5500
Facebook: @Liga Atlética Interuniversitaria de Puerto Rico – Página Oficial
Instagram: @laipr.oficial
YouTube: @LAIPR.Oficial
Location: 9 Railroad Street, San German, San German 00683, Puerto Rico
Images from: Liga Atlética Interuniversitaria
