Mayra Barbieri, a hockey player for Boca Juniors, is uniquely spending her pre-season as a volunteer firefighter in Patagonia, battling wildfires that have swept through northern Patagonia and parts of southern Chile. The fires, which started in early January, have devastated over 45,000 hectares of native forests, leading to evacuations of at least 3,000 residents, creating a critical situation in the region.

As her teammates engage in traditional training at their home base, Casa Amarilla, Barbieri is dedicating her efforts to fire prevention and rescue, showcasing not only her athletic prowess but also her commitment to community service. Her upbringing in a firefighting family has shaped her identity, giving her a strong sense of duty to contribute in emergencies. The ongoing fires represent a significant threat to both the environment and local populations, making the work of firefighters essential during this crisis.

The situation highlights the intersection of sports, community engagement, and environmental challenges, with Barbieri serving as a notable example of how athletes can leverage their platforms in times of need. Her dual role raises awareness of the ongoing environmental issues and the human cost of such natural disasters, reminding us of the resilience required to confront such daunting challenges.