PANAJI
Stressing the need to promote sportspersons, Cumbarjua MLA Rajesh Faldessai exhorted the youth to excel in sports and reach greater heights.
He was speaking at the award distribution function of the second edition of the Kshatriya Maratha Premier League 'KMPL - 0.2' tennis-ball cricket tournament organised by Akhil Gomantak Kshatriya Maratha Samaj (AGKSM)-Goa at SAG Ground, Fatorda.
Those present were social welfare minister Subhash Phal Dessai, Goa Cricket Association secretary Rohan Gauns Dessai, President of AGKSM Goa Mahesh Krishna Naik Gaonkar and other dignitaries.
Maratha Warriors Pernem emerged as winners of the tournament and MR.36 Bicholim were the runners-up, while Royal Maratha Quepem bagged the third-place trophy.
The Cumbarjua MLA sponsored the first prize of Rs 1,00,096, and a gold coin for the player of the series. Faldessai assured that next year he will sponsor a 1gm gold coin for every man of the match of the tournament.
Praising the organisers for successfully holding the tournament, the MLA urged them to also organise a football tournament and assured them to wholeheartedly support them.
He also stressed the importance of fitness and highlighted the nationwide Fit India Movement launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in August 2019 which encourages people to remain healthy and fit by including physical activities and sports in their daily lives.
"Players must excel in the sport and reach greater heights. We want to see our players reach national and international levels, and even play in the Indian Premier League. We need to uplift and promote our youth. There are a lot of facilities today to help you in the sport. We will support you. Even in education, we will help you overcome any difficulties," he said.
Praising the Cumbarjua MLA for his generosity, minister Phal Dessai lauded his efforts for sponsoring the tournament prizes. He also said that Goan players have the necessary skills to excel at the highest level.
"Our youngsters have the capacity, capability, strength, skills, talent, spirit, energy, and 'never-give-up' attitude that we can emerge winners in any scenario, The organisers and players must be appreciated for such a wonderful and excellent tournament," he said.
