THE GOAN NETWORK
PANAJI
The Goa Football Development Council inaugurated its 32nd Football Development Centre at St Michael’s Convent High School, Vagator. 56 boys and 31 girls aged 6 to 12 years have initially registered which is set to increase as the coaching programme progresses.
Welcoming the gathering, Sr Liberata Fernandes, Headmistress thanked GFDC for opening the centre and giving an opportunity to the children of Vagator to showcase their talent.
Speaking on the occasion, Aleixo Da Costa, Member Secretary, GFDC stated that GFDC is looking at developing the children holistically by providing football training, nutrition, football kits etc.
Dr Rufino Monteiro, Chairman, GFDC in his address expressed his wish to see more girl trainees joining whilst requesting the trainees to take full advantage of the facilities provided by GFDC, thanks to the vision of the former chief minister of Goa and now Defense Minister of India Manohar Parrikar for forming Goa Football Development Council which has provided professional training to over 3700 trainees at 31 centres and promised to continue development for the football trainees at Vagator as well.
Chief guest Dayanand Mandrekar, Minister for Art & Culture in his address congratulated GFDC for doing commendable work at 31 centres and training children with utmost dedication. He further stated that the career path for footballers is very promising with plenty of tournaments like the Indian Super League, I-League, Pro League, GFA Leagues and many more. Mariano Dias, Technical Director, GFDC, Lavinio Rebello, Vice President, GFA, Ex-headmaster Michael D’Souza, Sr Salvacao Pereira, Manager of the school and Steve D’Souza were the dignitaries were present. The event was compered by Diana D’Souza and vote of thanks was proposed by Agnelo Rodrigues.
