MARGAO
The Regina Mundi School Hall came alive with music, dance, and loud applause as Margao Ace Soccer Academy hosted its Annual Awards Day and Prize Distribution Ceremony on Friday. The event, conceptualized by Coach Umer Muttawalli, was a celebration of footballing talent and dedication from across Mormugao Taluka.
The ceremony was graced by an illustrious lineup of guests, including the "Stars of Mormugao": M.M. Muttawalli, Coaches Peter Vales, Jude Baretto, Francisco Fernandes (ISL winner with Chennaiyin FC), PE teachers and state champions Allan Gonsalves and Leroy Menezes, and a team of young, dynamic coaches—Godwin Rodrigues, Sidharth Murthy, Biswajeet Rajput (Thapa), Joslyn, Niranjan Gulchrist, and Francisco D’Sousa. Bro. Shawn Viegas, Headmaster of Regina Mundi School, also took the stage as a packed hall cheered the winners with enthusiasm.
Marking its 10th anniversary, the Academy has been instrumental in nurturing young footballers from Mormugao and surrounding areas. In his address, M.M. Muttawalli explained that the primary goal of the Awards Day was to recognize and honour emerging talent from across the Taluka, in addition to the Academy’s own players.
Reflecting on his journey, Muttawalli shared memories of coaching the Indian Women’s Team and leading Goa University to three All India University titles. He noted that in today’s fast-paced digital world, many children are drawn to gadgets or buried in studies, leaving limited time for sports. Still, he remains committed to playing a small role in motivating them by celebrating their hard work and achievements.
Francisco Fernandes, former state and national player, inspired the audience with his story of walking 5 km from Bogmalo to Dabolim to catch a bus to practice. He urged parents to support their children’s sporting dreams, saying, “With motivation, the results will follow.”
Jude Baretto spoke passionately about the promotion and development of football in Mormugao, while Peter Vales and Raghunath Gosavi were honoured with Lifetime Achievement Awards.
Outstanding players, coaches, PE teachers, and support staff from Regina Mundi School (U-14 boys and girls, State Champions) and Our Lady of Perpetual Succour School, Cortalim (U-17 boys, State Champions) were felicitated for their remarkable performances.
Young talents from the Academy, fondly referred to as “Acers,” were also acknowledged for their dedication and progress throughout the year.
Francisco Nunes, GFA Executive Committee Member, praised the collective efforts that have helped place Mormugao firmly on Goa’s football map.
Myron Rodrigues delivered the vote of thanks, while the evening was skillfully compered by the talented Ziya Muttawalli.
