the goan I network
MARGAO
The first All India Invitational volleyball tournament, organised in memory of former player Xavier Dias by MB United Sports & Cultural Club, Murida, Cuncolim will be held at the Club Court, Murida, Cuncolim from April 19 to 22.
The 10-team tournament will be played on league cum knock-out basis, said Oascar Martins, Treasurer and member of organising committee. Martins said the tournament provides “a wonderful opportunity for the Goan players to rub shoulders against the best in business”.
“More importantly it provides a chance for volleyball buffs in the State to witness top notch volleyball action. Much of the Goan teams’ performance will depend on how they handle the pressure when they take on the big guns of Indian Volleyball,” Martins said at a press briefing on Friday.
“It’s going to be a feast for volleyball fans. It’s not often that you get to see top national and former international players in action. For the last three years, the All Goa tournament attracted large turnouts and we are hoping for a similar response for this tournament,” Martins added.
“Though the entry for the event is free, we will have daily housie and other entertainment programmes,” Martins informed.
The final is slated for April 22. Two matches will be played everyday under lights. The matches will start at 8 pm and will be officiated by international and national umpiress from Karnatka and Andhra Pradesh. The tournmanet is recognised by Goa Volleyball Association. The winners will be awarded Rs 1 lakh, while the runners-up will get Rs 60,000. The losing semi-finalists will get Rs 15,000.
Santa Cruz MLA Tony Fernandes will be the chief guest for the inaugural match. Among those present at the press briefing were Aquino Dias, chairman of the organising comiteee; Glen Gomes and Swantra Dessai.
