MARGAO
Former football referee Mariano Mendes breathed his last peacefully at his residence at Cavelossim after ailing for some time.
He was a GFA-registered ex-referee and a referees' commissioner. The GFA had presented him with a Lifetime Achievement Award for his services rendered in the field of football. He was also honoured by Santa Cruz Club of Cavelossim, of which he was the founder life member and ex-chairman.
In his younger days, he was a star player of Lar de Estudantes - based Sporting Clube de Goa. He was a compere par excellence at weddings and other social functions, besides acting in local professional dramas as a character actor. Mariano Mendes leaves behind his son and daughter. His funeral will take place at Holy Cross Church, Cavelossim at 4 pm on Monday.
"Mariano was a friend and it is a loss not only to the football fraternity but to me as well," said Elvis Gomes, former president of GFA. "Sad indeed, nice gentleman. May his soul rest in peace," said Qatar-based sports journalist Armstrong Vaz.
"Mariano Dias was always humble and a very cool person," said Alfredo Fernandes, former coach of Churchill Brothers Sports Club. "Referee Mariano was a good referee. He officiated matches for the love of football. He was always honest with his decisions," said Anthony Leo Fernandes, executive member of GFA.
"Very sad to hear this news. Besides being a dedicated referee, Mariano was a good and helpful administrator and organiser," said Alberto Colaco, former general secretary, GFA.
