The London 2012 Summer Olympic Games has been amarvellous experience for all sports enthusiasts around the world. If thisexcitement rubs onto the four newdisciplines set to be added to Goa's sports calendar in the near future, thesports scenario of the state will be much more vibrant. Of these - fencing,cycling and gymnastics are Olympic sports while squash is yet to be includedin the Summer Games programme. Squashcould become a part of 2020 Summer Olympics.
Still savouring the long-lasting taste oftop-class multi-sport action at London Olympics, this is the time when thepopularity of the Olympic disciplines, is at its peak, and the administratorsof these just-recognised associations should be motivated to promote therespective sports disciplines in the state. The recognition by the Goa OlympicAssociation is the first step, but according to the president of Goa FencingAssociation, the sport of fencing needs help from Sports Authority of Goa.
"Our next challenge is to get recognitionfrom SAG. This will help us with promotional as well as financial aspect,"says Goa Fencing Association presidentYogesh Thakur, who is nurturing the sport for last two years with his ownfinances.
As is the procedure, SAG does not give instantrecognition to the new associations. The new sports bodies have to work ontheir own finances and prove they are fit and serious enough to be grantedaffiliation. It takes as long as three years for the new association to get recognitionfrom the SAG.
"There is hardly any media coverage forfencing in India, specially in Goa. There are nationals being held for 14-15years in different age-categories in different states (but there is not enoughmedia coverage)," Thakur points out.
Nevertheless, the humble beginnings canultimately transform into a success if there is a real desire to grow. Goanslove their football and cricket, while volleyball and swimming are also popularin the state. Taekwondo and baseball have been the most consistent source ofmedals at the national level for Goa.And if the administrators put on hundred percent effort - fencing, cycling,gymnastics and squash “ can become popular.
