MARGAO
In a significant boost to grassroots hockey development in Goa, Assolna Hockey Club and Cuncolim Hockey Club were officially launched during a well-attended function at Banda, Assolna on Tuesday night.
The event marked a milestone for the AVC (Assolna, Velim, Cuncolim) region, with the inauguration graced by three former India internationals of Goan origin — Joaquim Carvalho, Merwyn Fernandes, and Edgar Mascarenhas — along with Velim MLA Cruz Silva.
The long-term vision behind launching the two clubs is to nurture local talent and eventually produce a Goa-born India international in hockey.
The groundwork for the formation and registration of both clubs began a few months ago following a key meeting between Labour Commissioner Dr. Levinson Martins and Joaquim Carvalho. Inspired by Dr. Martins’ commitment to reviving hockey in Assolna, the initiative moved swiftly, culminating in successful registration with the Registrar of Societies.
During the ceremony, Arjuna awardees Joaquim Carvalho and Merwyn Fernandis jointly felicitated Dr. Martins for his pivotal role in spearheading the project and mobilizing a dedicated team to establish the clubs.
Addressing the gathering, MLA Cruz Silva recalled meeting Carvalho and receiving a detailed roadmap for promoting hockey in the Velim constituency. He extended his full support for the initiative, which aims to restore the sport’s popularity in the region.
The launch was attended by several prominent residents of Velim, all of whom pledged their support to strengthen hockey’s future in AVC.
Isaac Martins, president of Assolna Hockey Club, delivered the vote of thanks, concluding the evening on a note of optimism and community spirit.
