PANAJI
Goa could host its first-ever State Games later this year, while the possibility of setting up three to four sports schools at different locations across the State was discussed during a meeting between a Goa Olympic Association (GOA) delegation and Sports Minister Ramesh Tawadkar at the Secretariat, Porvorim.
The initiatives were among several issues discussed as GOA president Sadanand Shet Tanavade and members of the executive council met Tawadkar to discuss the State's sporting roadmap.
GOA secretary general Sandeep Heble said the proposed State Games could be structured along the lines of the National Games, with State teams or clubs competing across disciplines.
“The structure could be envisaged on the lines of the National Games, with Goa’s top State teams or Clubs competing across disciplines. The details are yet to be worked out, but if all goes to plan, this could be a good start. President Sadanand Tanavade has made the State Games part of his plans, with the aim of creating a platform where our best players, teams or clubs can compete,” Heble said.
Tawadkar's proposal for three to four sports schools was also discussed as a means of creating a structured pathway to identify and nurture young sporting talent.
Tanavade referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of grooming talent in Olympic sports and highlighted the potential among youngsters in Goa's villages and schools. He also stressed the role of physical education teachers in identifying children with sporting potential.
The meeting also discussed measures to strengthen support systems for athletes and coaches. GOA joint secretary Manoj Patil suggested refresher courses for Sports Authority of Goa coaches and better utilisation of their services through coordination with sports associations.
GOA vice-president Caitano Fernandes called for a professional administrative set-up to strengthen the State's sporting ecosystem.
“We are making attempts to streamline our coaching section and I have personally interacted with all our coaches,” Tawadkar said.
GOA treasurer Jayesh Naik briefed the minister on plans for the Olympic Bhavan and GOA office. The meeting also discussed the use of artificial intelligence and modern technology to improve existing systems.
GOA vice-presidents Sudesh Thakur, Sandhya Paliekar and Bhageshri Padloskar, and executive council members Abhay Bhamaikar and Viplava Bhakta were also part of the delegation.
