MARGAO
Local lad Melwin Rosario D'Costa successfully completed the All India Football Federation (AIFF) Referees Assessors Training Cum Evaluation Course.
Joining D'Costa among the qualifiers are CR Krishna (Tamil Nadu), Ajit Kumar Meetei (Manipur), A. Rowan (Kerala), and Umesh Bora (Delhi).
Speaking to the The Goan Everyday, D'Costa stated, "I am so happy to clear the AIFF Exams. I feel like my hard work is finally being rewarded."
"I am the fan of former FIFA referee chief Pierluigi Collina and he is my idol," said Melwin who is a clerk in the Electricity Department in Benaulim.
D'Costa's journey began as a state-level referee. He then progressed to become a National Referee, officiating in prestigious tournaments like the Goa Professional League, National Football Championship, Indian Super League (ISL), and even the Durand Cup final between Gokulam Kerala FC and Mohun Bagan.
D'Costa credits Costao Paul Rodrigues, a former GFA state referee, for encouraging him to take up refereeing. He also acknowledges the valuable advice from senior figures in the Goan foobtall fraternity. "I still remember Walter Pereira, Anthony John D'Costa and Rizwan Haq's words: Don't get starstruck. At the end of the day, you are the referee. They may be stars players but you are the boss at the ground. Act as you act in the domestic matches," Melwin humbly acknowledged.
D'Costa emphasizes the importance of studying players beforehand. This meticulous approach allows him to make confident decisions on the field.
D'Costa observes that the quality of refereeing in India has seen a significant improvement compared to the overall growth of the sport.
"Tournaments like Indian Super League (ISL), I-League and FIFA's regular courses for referee, assistant referees and others has helped grow the refereeing scene in India," he added.
Costa candidly discussed the non-technical aspects of refereeing. He highlights the importance of projecting confidence and possessing good English communication skills to succeed at the international level.
"Nowadays, refereeing is about how you carry yourself. One should look confident and go-getter to scale the international ladder. Not just this, an aspirant must be well-versed with English. Without thorough knowledge of English things would remain blur," the 46-year-old explained.
The Goa Football Association's senior vice president, Anthony Pango, lauded Melwin's accomplishment, recognising his dedication and contribution to the refereeing scene in India.
