MARGAO
Goa's football fraternity hailed Kalyan Chaubey who has been elected as the new president of AIFF.Chaubey, 45, is a former goalkeeper who is currently a politician with the BJP. The Indian Goalkeeper of the Year in 1997-98 and 2001-02 played for both Kolkata giants Mohun Bagan and East Bengal, while also having a stint at Goan powerhouse Salgaocar.
"Congratulations on your successful win in the election, I am so happy for you. I know you are the perfect choice for this position and you will work for the State Association, God bless you," said Antonio Pango, senior vice president of Goa Football Association (GFA).
"Restoration of democratic process after FIFA ban resulting in holding of elections thus paving the way for Kalyan Choubey to be the President is most welcome. Now he has to ensure that state associations likewise hold timely elections including in Goa where it is reported that the president and executive committee are illegally sticking to the chairs," said Elvis Gomes, ex-president GFA.
"Congratulations and best wishes to Choubey, for being elected president of AIFF to take Indian football forward. He was under me when I was the goalkeeper coach, when Goa hosted Rajiv Gandhi Under 21 international football tournament," said Brahamanand Shankvalkar, Padmashree Awardee and former India custodian.
"Great news, a former professional player becoming the AIFF President is a welcome sign and a step in the right direction. India joins a host of countries whose president is a former player which is so heartening. I hope he puts in a system of putting the right people as far as coaching is concerned, is the need of the hour to have good and qualified coaches," said Clifford Miranda, Asst Coach Odisha FC.
"Congratulations to him, lots of expectations from the new president. Hope to see Indian football grow to the highest level," said Mahesh Gawli, former India international centre-back.
"Congratulations on being elected AIFF boss, I know you will work hard to reach football to dizzy heights under your leadership," said Girijadevi Dessai, women football coach, Sirvodem Sports Club.
