Panaji: The Santosh Trophy, India’s most prestigious inter-state national football championship, has seen Goa achieve considerable success over the years. In response to a query from Cuncolim MLA Aleixo Lourenco, Sports Minister Govind Gaude, has shared detailed information regarding Goa’s performance in the Santosh Trophy and the support extended to the teams over the past five years.
The Santosh Trophy is widely regarded as India’s most prestigious inter-state national football championship. The state has claimed the title on multiple occasions, notably in 1982-83 (as Joint Winners), 1983-84, 1989-90, 2005-06, and 2008-09. This historical success underscores Goa’s strong football tradition and its significant contributions to the sport at the national level.
1982-83: Joint Winners; 1983-84: Winners; 1989-90: Winners; 2005-06: Winners; 008-09: Winners
In the last five years, Goa's performance in the Santosh Trophy has been as follows: 2023-24: Runners-Up; 2022-23: Qualified for the Final Round; 2021-22: Participated; 2018-19: Qualified for the Semi-Finals; 2019-20 and 2020-21:The tournament was not held due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Goa Football Association (GFA) receives financial support from the Sports Authority of Goa for team participation in the Santosh Trophy. The assistance provided in the last five years is detailed below:
2018-19: Zonal Level: Rs. 1,44,670; National Level: Rs. 2,07,690; 2021-22: Rs. 1,44,072; 022-23: Rs. 3,60,600; 2023-24: Rs. 1,18,250 (Amount yet to be paid)
This financial aid is crucial for covering the costs associated with team preparation and participation in the championship.
The selection of the Santosh Trophy team is managed by the Goa Football Association. To enhance team performance, the government plans to ensure early team selection, provide high-quality coaching, and offer comprehensive support and facilities. The Sports Authority of Goa will continue to release participation grants to the GFA to support these efforts.
