THE GOAN Network
PANAJI
Sporting Clube de Goa’s sprightly winger Akeraj Martins has become the first player to graduate from the ‘Flaming Oranje’ Academy to the senior team.
Martins had previously represented all the Sporting Goa age group academy teams. The-18-year-old youngster was elated with the promotion and explained the euphoria after signing the professional agreement at the Sporting Goa headquarters. “My dream is finally turning into a reality. I will work hard in training and take my opportunities as and when they come.”
Martins could also go on to become the youngest player to don the Flaming Oranje jersey in next month’ Goa Pro League.
“Akeraj has shown tremendous maturity over the years which allowed the club to let him play with an older age group to keep challenging him and continue his long term development,” said Angelo Alburquerque, manager of Sporting Goa. “He has also captained the various teams’ right up to the U-19 I-League on numerous occasions,” he added.
Akeraj has also represented Goa in various national age group competitions, besides playing in the First Division of GFA. “The club is delighted with Akeraj’s progress. We are happy that our Youth development programme is starting to bear fruit” stated Sporting Clube de Goa’s CEO Victor Fernandes.
“We are hoping Akeraj can become a role model for more students to transform their passion into a profession and play for Sporting Clube de Goa,” stated Don Bosco principal Rev Fr Avin Carvalho.
