The Goa Football Association (GFA) on Friday urged eligible retired footballers from the state to apply for inclusion in the All India Football Federation's (AIFF) Roster of Sportspersons of Outstanding Merit (SOM), which is being constituted under the provisions of the National Sports Governance Act, 2025 and the National Sports Governance (National Sports Bodies) Rules, 2026.
The AIFF has invited applications to prepare separate rosters comprising 20 retired male and 20 retired female footballers from across the country. Inclusion in the roster is subject to eligibility criteria laid down under the new governance framework.
Applicants must be Indian citizens, at least 25 years old, of sound mind, retired from active competition, and must not have participated in any competitive event leading to district, state or national selection for at least one year. They are also required to satisfy at least one of the tier-based eligibility criteria prescribed under the National Sports Governance Rules.
The GFA clarified that applications must be submitted directly to the AIFF on or before September 13, 2026, either by email to [email protected] or by post to Football House, Sector 19, Phase 1, Dwarka, New Delhi – 110075.
The association also emphasised that no nomination, recommendation or endorsement from the Goa Football Association or any other State/UT association is required for applicants.
The GFA has appealed to its affiliated clubs, district associations, academies and former players to circulate the information widely so that all eligible retired footballers are made aware of the opportunity and can apply within the stipulated deadline.
