Sports Minister Ramesh Tawadkar inaugurates GFDC's Fatorda centre in association with Shree Dambabalem Ghodem Cultural Association at Fatorda.
The Goan Network
MARGAO
Sports Minister Ramesh Tawadkar on Saturday inaugurated the GFDC's Fatorda centre in association with Shree Dambabalem Ghodem Cultural Association at Fatorda.
This was done in presence of Damodar Naik, president of Dambabalem Ghodem Cultural Assocaition, Arjuna Awardee Brahamananad Shankwalkar, FC Goa footballer Romeo Fernandes, Dr Rufino Monteiro, Chairman of GFDC and Aleixo F Da Costa, Member Secretary, GFDC.
Speaking at the inaugural, the sports minister said that when the BJP came into power and the then chief minister Manohar Parrikar declared football as a state sport and gave birth to the GFDC. Tawadkar said he believied the a tiny state like Goa can produce champions at the international level as Goa has the potential to meet world standards.
"The government is ready to provide the best of facilties and infrastructure to achieve further success in sports," added Tawadkar.
The sports minister added that Goa is gearing up to organise the AFC Cup Under 16 in September“October 2016 which wil be followed by next year's mega event - the U-17 FIFA World Cup.
"Motiviation is the key towards developing a child's hidden talent and GFDC has been moving in the right direction to achieve this," remarked Tawadkar while emphasising how it helps a sportsperson to climb the ladder of success.
He also complimented Damu Naik for setting up a centre at Fatorda.
Tawadkar also informed that within eight days a tender of Rs 30 crore will be floated for upgrading the Fatorda Swiminmg pool complex.
"I must thank the GFDC for opening a centre at Fatorda," said Tawadkar, praising the GFDC for its efforts. "I am happy that the budding boys and girls will benfit from the centre," stated Naik.
Dr Rufino Monteiro while explaining the idea behind the Fatorda centre said: "Coaches at all GFDC centres would be trained on a regular basis. Parents must send their children for regular training as this will enable them to develop their football skills and one day reprsent the state and country."
Aleixo F Da Costa, member secretary of GFDC, congratulated the participants and thanked the parents for enrolling their wards at the centre.
FC Goa hero Romeo Fernandes was mobbed by budding footbalers and he obliged them by signing autographs. GFDC members Agnelo Fonseca and Liberata Rodrigues were also present.
