Several significant resolutions related to Campal ground, AIFF Constitution and Players’ body; wer adopted at the Goa Football Association (GFA) Executive Committee meeting recently.
Representation regarding Campal Ground
The Executive Committee resolved to make a formal representation to the Corporation of the City of Panaji, the Member of the Legislative Assembly of Panaji, and the Chief Minister, regarding the Campal Ground. The Campal Ground holds immense historical and sporting significance for football in Goa, and GFA is committed to pursuing all necessary avenues to protect and preserve its continued use for the sport and for the footballing community of the State. The GFA will be engaging with the relevant authorities at the earliest opportunity in this regard. The present GFA Committee has, since 2023, addressed several letters to GSUDA and the concerned Minister on this issue. Commenting on the matter, GFA President Dr. Caitano Fernandes stated: “The Campal Ground issue has come into focus now. However, as an Association, we have been writing to the relevant authorities on this matter since 2023.”
Implementation of the AIFF Constitution
The Executive Committee further resolved to implement the new Constitution of the All India Football Federation within the GFA by October 2026. This step is in keeping with the GFA’s obligations as a Member Association of the AIFF and reflects the Association’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of governance, transparency and accountability in the administration of football in Goa. The GFA will shortly circulate the draft amended Constitution to all its members before convening a Special General Meeting for the purpose of adopting the necessary constitutional amendments. The Association expects to complete this process by 20 October 2026, subject to the formation of the Players’ Body. Dr. Caitano Fernandes, President of the GFA, said: “We hope to be the first State Association in India to amend its Constitution in line with the provisions of the National Sports Governance Act and the AIFF Constitution.”
Constitution and Formation of GFA Players Association
The Executive Committee also resolved to invite applications from eligible players for the constitution and formal formation of the GFA Players Association.
The formation of a Players Association marks a significant milestone for football in Goa, as it will provide players with a structured, recognised and formal platform through which to represent their collective interests and contribute to the development of the game in the State. Detailed guidelines regarding eligibility criteria, the application process and timelines will be communicated to all stakeholders in due course. GFA reaffirms its commitment to the growth, development and good governance of football at every level in the State and will keep all stakeholders duly informed of progress on each of the above resolutions. “Players have always been the most important stakeholders in Goan football and we hope to create the GFA Players Association as soon as possible” said Dr. Caitano.
Former India international Maymol Rocky and GFA Executive Committee members, Sanjiv Nagvenkar and Cosme Oliveira have been tasked with getting the players on board to facilitate the GFA Players Association.
