ran a silent campaign beginning in the middle of the 1950s (beginning with Decree 7 May 19579. The long tedious process lasted most of his life, and only came to fruition with the election of its first parish organs on 9 October 2005. The proposal to reestablish Santa Clara as civil parish began with a proposal on 16 July 2001, approved as decree law on 10 July 2002, when it was formally de-annexed from the western part of the civil parish of São José. Geography Santa Clara is an industrial zone located on the western periphery of Ponta Delgada, extending from the area around the port of Ponta Delgada, to the eastern frontier of Relva. Sport By the beginning of the 20th century, the working poor of the parish were more inclined toward their chores and daily tasks, and had little time for relaxation or leisure. But, at the same time they were dedicated to sport, especially football, as evident by the arrival of the game in São Miguel and the appearance of the campeonatos de Santa Clara (Santa Clara Championships), which helped to foster and develop the game. Regular organized practice and games began in the second decade of the 20th century, and more so following the departure of American forces stationed at Field Azores in the Mata da Doca following the First World War. The evolution of the sport resulted in the appearance of the Santa Clara Foot-ball Club, which was presented to the public in October 1922, and became one of the founding members of the Ponta Delgada Football Association in April of the following year. At one time there were three football teams in the parish: Santa Clara Foot-ball Club, Sport Club Santa Clara and the Clube Desportivo Santa Clara. But, it was the latter, since 29 July 1927, that has remained, ultimately advancing to the national division. References Notes Sources Parishes of Ponta Delgada