Margao MLA Digambar Kamat said that all stakeholders along with the state government should work together to bring back the glorious days of Goan football. He was speaking at the closing ceremony of the GFDC Football Summit 2024 in Margao on Thursday.
Sports Authority of Goa Executive Director Dr. Geeta S. Nagvenkar, who is also Member Secretary of GDFC; Goa Football Association President Dr. Caitano Fernandes, were also present among others for the conclusion of the two-day Summit organised by GFDC and GFA.
Kamat, who was also the Chairman of the Organising Committee of the Summit, stressed the importance of quality infrastructure and adequate remuneration to get good coaches.
“Threadbare discussions held during the summit resulted in the very good recommendations, but these have to be implemented by the government that will benefit football. GFDC, GFA and the state government must work together. Infrastructure is the major issue. Grounds owned by the government should be made available to village clubs at no profit, no loss basis. We must aim to get back the glorious days of Goan football,” he said.
Dr. Nagvenkar said that the issues discussed during the summit and the draft recommendations will help Goan football in the long run.
“Topics covered during the summit like football coaching, amateur clubs, player perspectives, inter-village football, grassroots, youth football and academic, infrastructure, marketing sponsorship and fan engagement will certainly ensure a bright future for Goan football,” said Dr Nagvenkar.
Fernandes said that the event was highly successful in identifying the problems faced by Goan football. “I hope that this event marks the beginning of a new era in Goan football, where the football ecosystem thrives with the support of the clubs, government and fans,” said the GFA President.
