Sailors assigned to aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) participated in a soccer tournament Nov. 24 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil while participating in UNITAS Atlantic (LANT). The tournament featured several countries including Mexico, Brazil, Peru and United Kingdom, all previous participants in the UNITAS LANT multi-national exercise hosted by Brazil. UNITAS LANT is conducted in the Caribbean, Central and South America to enhance interoperability and regional partnerships. For Washington Sailors, this was a once in a life time opportunity. "It was actually a great experience," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 1st Class Albaro Rodriguez, Washington's soccer coach. "We had the opportunity to experience playing against other countries and getting to know players around the world. There were teams from all over South America." Washington's team made it to the semi-finals and lost to Peru in the seven-on-seven game. "It was different," said Seaman Faustino Suco, a player on Washington's team. "Back home you have more time with the ball. Here, the game is a completely different style. The game is much more fast paced and more touch-and-go." After the tournament was over, all the teams were invited to a Brazilian barbeque held at the Submarine base located down the street from the fields. "The food was great," said Suco. "It was amazing getting to do something I love, eat delicious food and get the opportunity to meet and talk to people from countries I never thought I would see." Washington Sailors were awarded a third place medal and were applauded for their high spirits and participation. Washington is deployed as part of Southern Seas 2015 which seeks to enhance interoperability, increase regional stability and build and maintain relationships with countries throughout the region through joint, multinational and interagency exchanges and cooperation.