Goa Football Association's AGM was held yesterday at Panjim

The Goa Football Association held its yearly Annual General Meeting at the Clube Tennis de Gaspar Dias in the state capital Panjim yesterday. One of the main topics at the AGM was the performances of state’s teams at the Santosh Trophy and youth tournaments which in the recent past has been far from satisfactory.

A focus would be given to a more professional approach and not short-term preparations, once the teams are announced. The coaching and competitions committee would be involved to make the necessary corrections.

The GFA also applauded the decision of the Goan state government to make football the state sport of Goa, and ideas were exchanged as to how the GFA can improve football in Goa by working together with the newly formed Goa State Football Development Council (GSFDC).

The infrastructure situation was also discussed with the GFA set to work with the GSFDC to develop necessary grounds and training facilities. The GFA informed those present that the Duler ground would be ready by November following the delay in installation of the artificial turf pitch, while the federation had been informed by it’s vice-president – Elvis Gomes, who also happens to be the SAG ED, that government had assured him to have a small-size stadium at Campal ready in two years time.

Meanwhile a grand total of 106 GFA officials and organisers were felicitated for their contribution to Goan football. The list included 38 from Bardez, 42 from Salcete, 13 from Ilhas and 13 from Mormugao who have worked tirelessly for many years to organise GFA matches which stands at 968 matches last season.

The GFA president, Srinivas Dempo, also paid homage to the three members of the Goan football fraternity, who passed away last season: Adolfo Viegas, a former GFA general secretary, who played a key role in the early development of the Association; Duler stadium football manager, Jerome Fernandes, who looked after the GFA’s home stadium with aplomb; and Antonio Colaco, who also provided yeoman services to the Association.