The impressive performance of athletes from Haryana, Punjab and other northern States at the recent Asian Games offers an important lesson for Goa. The State’s absence from the Asian Games raises an uncomfortable question: why does Goa, despite its strong sporting culture, struggle to produce athletes capable of competing at the continental level?
Goa has a proud footballing tradition and has produced several national-level players. However, its sporting ecosystem remains largely focused on football, while other disciplines receive comparatively less attention.
The problem is not a lack of talent but the absence of a systematic pathway from school-level sports to elite competition. Many young athletes lack access to quality training facilities, professional coaches, proper nutrition and regular exposure to national and international events. Consequently, promising youngsters often move outside Goa to pursue better opportunities.
By learning from successful sporting States and investing in grassroots development, Goa can nurture champions across disciplines.
GREGORY FERNANDES, Mumbai
