MARGAO
Sports Minister Govind Gaude inaugurated a month-long summer badminton coaching camp organised by Salcete Badminton Club in collaboration with Goa Badminton Association and the Sports Authority of Goa at multipurpose stadium, Navelim.
Narahar Thakur (President, Goa Badminton Association), Sandeep Heble (Secretary GBA), Rajesh Naik (Stadium Manager) and club officials Siddharth Rivonkar (President) and Santosh Lotlikar (Secretary) were among those who graced the occasion.
The month-long camp is being conducted by Sharmad Mahajan (Chief Coach) and former Goa State champion Govind Navelkar (NIS Coach). The camp is restricted to 23 young trainees who are working out in three rigorous sessions every day, designed to tap, exploit, and maximise the trainees' potential.
In his striking voice and commanding vocabulary skills, Sports Minister motivated the kids and their parents while promising all necessary support needed for badminton to flourish in Goa. Santosh Lotlikar, Secretary of SBC, elaborated on the club's objectives and assured to work hand-in-hand with the State Association to advance the bar of badminton in Goa and churn out future champions. Siddharth Rivonkar, club president, projected plans and vision of the club.
Narahar Thakur mentioned the excellent sports infrastructure available in Goa and the need to utilize it to its fullest potential. Sandeep Heble announced the planned tournaments by GBA along with its affiliated units for the upcoming season. “Presently, our Summer camps are in progress in 7 centres across Goa. We will host 4 National level tournaments besides an active State calendar of events. A franchisee-based Professional badminton league will be launched along with Taluka, District and State Ranking tournaments in various categories,” announced Heble.
Sharmad Mahajan, camp head coach, explained the structure of the coaching camp followed by his vision of raising the standard of Badminton in Salcete taluka. Satya Kolwalker, club Executive committee member, introduced the Chief Guest, followed by distribution of t shirts by the Hon. Minister to camp trainees. Kunal Kare presented a vote of thanks.
