MARGAO
A significant step towards strengthening sports infrastructure and promoting a vibrant sporting culture in municipal areas and surrounding villages was marked by the inauguration of a futsal turf at Madicotto, Cuncolim. The facility was inaugurated by Chief Minister Pramod Sawant in the presence of Leader of Opposition and Cuncolim MLA Yuri Alemao and Quepem MLA Altone D'Costa.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister emphasized the importance of sports in students’ lives, urging them to actively participate in physical activities to stay fit. He highlighted that sports help build resilience and stressed that schools should give equal importance to sports alongside academics. He also encouraged students to engage in team sports to develop a strong sense of teamwork.
Speaking on the occasion, Yuri Alemao expressed confidence that the futsal ground would benefit both experienced and aspiring players. He noted that the facility would serve as a strong motivation for youth to actively engage in sports and make constructive use of their time. He also acknowledged the efforts of community leaders and stakeholders who contributed to the development of the sports infrastructure, urging local youth to utilize the facility for their overall growth and well-being.
Meanwhile, Indian futsal team head coach Joshuah Vaz described the development as a landmark moment for the sport. Having been involved in futsal for over a decade, Vaz will guide the national side, popularly known as the Futsal Tigers.
“This is a historic moment for everyone who has worked towards promoting the authentic form of futsal. We always believed that the All India Football Federation would eventually take up futsal,” said Vaz. “Despite private competitions and skepticism from some quarters, we remained committed to growing the sport through proper channels under the AIFF.”
