The Annual General Body Meeting (AGM) of the Goa Badminton Association (GBA) was held at Goa Vivanta, Miramar amidst enthusiasm and a shared sense of purpose, as the association announced its Diamond Jubilee Year initiatives — a significant milestone in its illustrious 60-year journey since inception.
The meeting was addressed by GBA president Manoj Patil, secretary Praveen Shenoy, treasurer Sanjay Bhobe, along with representatives of the District Associations and 26 affiliated clubs from across the state. The Annual Report for the past year was unanimously adopted and the audited accounts were approved, marking a year of unprecedented activity, reform, and future planning.
In his keynote address, Manoj Patil reflected on the association’s historic legacy and laid out an ambitious roadmap for the future. Key highlights from the President’s address included:
•Launch of Grassroots Badminton Programs in every Taluka,
•Talent Identification Program to scout and nurture young prospects across Goa
•School outreach Initiatives to introduce badminton to children in rural and semi-urban areas, •Organising a Technical Officials’ and coaches Workshop,
•Launching the BWF Shuttle Time to train Physical education teachers, •Introduction of a Corporate Badminton Tournament, besides plans to host a Grand Badminton Convention, honouring past legends and inspiring today’s players
“In addition, we are in advanced discussions with the Badminton Association of India to establish a National Centre of Excellence in Goa — a visionary initiative that will provide our players with access to world-class training, sports science, and expert mentoring right here in Goa”, stated Patil.
Praveen Shenoy highlighted the national-level initiatives. “We are thrilled to announce that Goa will be hosting two prestigious All India Ranking Tournaments in June— one for Under-15 and Under-17 categories at Peddem followed by Under-13 at Navelim, and the Inter-State West Zone Championship in September at the Indoor Stadium, Campal — a prestigious team event that will see intense competition among the western states of India.”
Treasurer Sanjay Bhobe presented the financial report/ audited balance sheets and received appreciation for transparent accounting and judicious use of resources that enabled the association to scale its programs effectively.
The AGM concluded on a high note, with the GBA felicitating the clubs for promoting Badminton activities all through the year.
A series of activities, tournaments, and initiatives will now follow throughout the year as part of the 60th-year celebrations, stated a press release.
