GFDC trainees receive kits at Ambelim in the presence of Velim MLA Cruz Silva.
PANAJI
The Goa Football Development Council (GFDC) recently organised a kit distribution ceremony for its grassroots football trainees at Ambelim, with Velim MLA Cruz Silva urging the youngsters to work hard and pursue their footballing ambitions.
The event was attended by Silva, GFDC technical assistant Lawjyo Gomes, council officials, trainees and parents.
Addressing the trainees, Silva said they were at the right age to dream big and develop their skills for a career in football. He said GFDC had qualified coaches and provided the necessary equipment and facilities to help youngsters progress from local and school-level football to state, national and international competitions, including the Indian Super League (ISL).
Recalling how players earlier played barefoot in open fields without proper kits, Silva said the availability of grounds and facilities had helped the sport grow. He also urged parents to encourage their children to participate in football, stressing that hard work and perseverance were essential for success in any field.
Gomes urged the trainees to wear the GFDC jersey with pride and view every step on the field as progress towards their dreams.
Citing examples of players who had progressed through GFDC centres, he mentioned Stanley, who trained at GFDC Ambelim before going on to play for Churchill Brothers; Harsh Patre of GFDC Mayem, who joined FC Goa; Nathan Rodrigues of GFDC Arambol, who plays for Mumbai City; and Clarence Fernandes of GFDC Utorda, who plays for SC Delhi.
Gomes said hard work and dedication had helped these players advance in their careers, while GFDC provided the platform and coaches to guide them. He emphasised the importance of parental support in ensuring that children continued to attend training and pursue the sport.
Urging the trainees to learn from their mistakes, Gomes advised them to improve every day, avoid repeating errors and remain focused on their ambitions. He encouraged the youngsters to uphold the name of GFDC and make Goa proud.
