1st Sporting Clube de Goa bowling tournament held

With a score of 168 points, king pin Sahil Bhurani of Mira Mar, took top honours in the 1st Sporting Clube de Goa ten-pin bowling tournament, organized by Youth of Panjim YMCA, at Caculo mall, St Inez on Liberation day

The competition was played on a ranking basis with each participant allotted twenty bowls each to get the highest strike rate possible.

Allwyn Albert from Panjim finished a close runner up with 162 points, followed by Neel Sanzgiri from Merces who took third place with 156 points.

With the day being a public holiday a large crowd gathered to witness the event and 140 participants travelled from all over Goa to take part in the exciting one day contest.

The chief guest was professional footballer, Mohammed Ali who had captained the winning Sporting Clube de Goa team, in last season’s GFA Taca Goa U-20 league.

Also present on the occasion, was engineer Sheldon Martins, who is the Vice President of YMCA, Panjim district, Advocate Joseph Vaz who is the Chairperson of YMCA, Western region and players of Panjim based football outfit Sporting Clube de Goa.

Compere Joshua Vaz thanked all the sponsors and made a special mention of title sponsor Sporting Clube de Goa, “Thanks to Mr Peter Vaz, president of Sporting Clube de Goa and managing director of Models Constructions for believing in the concept and not only promoting alternative sports, but also boosting youthful enterprise,” remarked Joshua.

College students, Rafuishaan D’sa, Joshua Vaz, Idraram Mistry & Sidharth Mendonsa organized the first of its kind initiative in Goa.

Sporting Clube de Goa celebrate fan day

On the auspicious date of 12.12.12, Sporting Clube de Goa decided to dedicate the day to their fans; after all it’s the 12th man that makes all the difference on the football field.

A large group of Sporting Goa player’s took time out from their rigorous training schedule, to visit the Batista orphanage in Santa Cruz.

The children excitedly waited anxiously at the front of the gate, as the players emerged from their vehicles. Once the youngsters were introduced to the players they sat down and played a pulsating game of carom.

It would have been easy for the Sporting Goa players to let their young opponents win, but true to their competitive nature they played tough and came away with a narrow victory.

 Afterwards the Sporting Goa players distributed refreshments and the young Batista boys reciprocated by singing some beautiful rhymes for their visitors. In the past the boys have even come up with their own version of the Flaming Oranje anthem.

Later in the day the Sporting Goa players moved to the football ground to demonstrate some silky skills to another set of fans. The young player’s happily showed up in Sporting Goa kit, which was sponsored last year by the Sporting Goa president Peter Vaz.

After the players showed of their favourite show boating tricks, they were taken by surprise when one of the youngsters started to juggle the ball in an exquisite manner.

As the day came to a close the young wards shook hands with the Sporting Goa players as it was time to say goodbye until the next time.

Swedish coach Johan Kalin conducts talk on grass roots football

“As many possible, as much as possible, as good as possible,” was the message sent out by Swedish coach Johan Kalin, addressing the BPEd students of Don Bosco with a special grass roots football talk highlighting  the Swedish model, at Don Bosco School, on Tuesday. The seminar was organised by Sporting Clube de Goa in association with the BPEd college.

Elaborating further he said that the Swedish Model encourages as many youngsters as possible to take to the game of football at a young age regardless of their ability or background.

The next stage is to allow the participants to play as much as possible. “If a child can commit to three sessions a week that’s good, but if a youngster can only play once a week that’s o.k. as well,” stated the UEFA “A” licence diploma holder Johan.

Johan further enlightened that it is up to the coach to think like the age of the player he is coaching and set appropriate goals in order to make the ward as good as possible.

Johan highlighted the work he routinely carries out for the Swedish FA in his region of the country, with courses regularly organised teaching leadership skills, game intelligence, technique and physical aspects along with goalkeeping. He also is a Uefa instructor conducting Uefa “B” level courses.

The Swedish model concentrates on using football as a tool not only for teaching football skills but also stresses on character building. “Most of the young players know how challenging it is to make it to the top and so it is important to have a well-rounded personality with interest in studies as well,” remarked the 35 year old Johan.

Former women’s Swedish footballer Susann Jatkin also spoke on the occasion about the healthy state of women’s football in Sweden and that girl’s are encouraged just as much as boys take up the game and enjoy it in a fun environment.

Johan concluded the session, by explaining that along with the FA, the government plays a big role in soccer success. But he believes it is the parents who play the biggest role as it is their perseverance and hours sacrificed taking their children to practice and also doubling up as community coaching volunteers which gives youth development a huge boost.

The students of the college had many relevant questions to ask Johan and Susann and were thoroughly pleased with the interactive discussion.

BPEd principal Dr. Marie Raj was the chief guest and Fr. Wilred Fernandes was the guest of honour.

Sporting Goa seek Oscar winning Performance

“We have a good set of players and coaching staff.  I am sure if we just increase the intensity and improve the rhythm of the side, we will reap the rewards,” remarked Sporting Clube de Goa’s new head coach Oscar Bruzon, looking pleased at the end of his first practice session on Tuesday.

After a recent string of adverse results in the I-League and Goa Pro League, Sporting Goa decided to make a change to tweak a few things and resurrect their season.

It is no secret that the Sporting Goa president Peter Vaz is an avid fan of La Liga, so it came as no surprise when Oscar’s bio data landed on his table; he more than took a passing glance.

 

The 35-year old Oscar has played professionally in the Spanish league for Real Club Celta de Vigo. What is more impressive is that he has accomplished the Uefa ‘A’ licence and also is an MBA graduate.

 

After hanging up his boots, Oscar had a successful stint with the Celta Vigo academy, before moving into the world of banking as a manager.

 

The Spaniard is not new to India, as he has been working as head of coaching at the SPT Academy in Bangalore for over a year.

 

Oscar a self-confessed Real Madrid fan is familiar with most of the Sporting Goa players as he has trained with the team during a brief break in Goa last year. 

 

The Sporting Goa squad was given a holiday on Monday due to the feast of St Francis Xavier, but they more than made up for it with a double session on Tuesday.

 

The morning consisted of circuit training at Quitula ground, while the afternoon was a tactical session at Sangolda ground.

 

Sporting Goa has retained Technical director Alex Alvares and Coach Ekendra Singh, who will assist Oscar.

 

The team leaves for New Delhi on Thursday, where Oscar will face his first test with a tricky tie against ONGC on Saturday.

 

On their return, they take on Dempo in the Goa Pro League, followed by Churchill Brothers and Salgaocar in the I-League.

 

Oscar does not promise the Tika-Taka style synonymous with Spanish football, but with a glint in his eye wants to leave fans of the Flaming Oranje craving for more.

KINGFISHER GOA PRO LEAGUE OFFICIALLY LAUNCHED!

The Kingfisher Goa Pro League was officially launched by the GFA at Mandovi hotel, Panjim on Saturday. The club captains and coaches gathered for the official launch.
The following 10 teams are contesting for the title: Sporting Clube de Goa, Dempo Sports Club, Churchill Brothers Sports Club, Salgaocar Sports Club, Sesa Football Academy, NRB Vasco, Santa Cruz Club of Cavelossim, Margao Sports Club, Goa Velha Sports Club and newly promoted Wilred Leisure Sports Club.
The teams will play each other once, with the top five teams going on to play in the Super League, while the bottom five teams will play in the relegation league.

"GOANS IN SPORT (1936 - 2011)" RELEASED

Sports Goa: Goan sports fan favourite!

The following is a comprehensive list of Goan sports stars included in the excellent new book released by Avitus d’Cruz titled “Goans in Sport (1936-2011)” on 1st June 2012 in Panjim. Enjoy the sporting nostalgia!

Goans in Canada:

Field Hockey: Kenneth Pereira, Wayne Fernandes, Michelle Colaco, Nicole Colaco, Shaun De Souza, John De Souza, Wayne Fernandes, Robin D’Abreo, Peter D’Souza

Hockey Umpires: Wesley Pereira, David Nazerath, Louis Mendonca, John de Souza, Roque Barretto, Anthony Mendes, lavy Pinto

Athletes: Lavy Pinto, Petronilla Coutinho Nee Mendonca, Alex Silveria, Mary D’souza Sequeira, Anthony Coutinho, Stephie (D’souza) Sequeira, Nicholas Ferrao, Edward Sequeira, Savio d’souza,

Athletics coach: Frank Alphonso,

Badminton: Leroy D’Sa, Esmer Figueiredo,

Boxing: Leslie Buddy d’Souza

Body Building: Xaiver D’souza

Cricket: Dilip Sardessai, Paras Mhambrey,

Cricket administrators: Dayanand Narvekar, A S D’mello,

Football: Mauricio Affonso, Climax Lawrence, John Araujo, Francis Silveira, Andrew D’souza, Camillo Gonsalves, Jose D’souza, Savio Madeira, Lawrence Gomes, Menino Figueiredo, Ignatious Dias, Mahesh Gawli, Samir, Subhas Naik, Levino Anthony Pereira, Roque Barretto, Fortunato Franco, Bruno Coutinho, Clifford Rayes Miranda, Jules Alberto, Bernard Pereira, Mario Soares, Neville D’souza, Roy Barreto, Lector Mascarenhas, Derrick Pereira, Evaristo Cardozo, Marto Gracias, Anthony Rebello, Brahmanand Shanwalkar, Anthony Braganza, Anthony D’souza, Franky Baretto, Robert Fernandes, Norbert Gonsalves, Arthur Pereira, Nicholas Pereira, Mahesh Lotliker, Chandrakant Naik, Dereyk De Souza, Joe D’sa, Francis D’souza, Visitacao Lobo, Ashok Fadte, Joseph Machado, Arnold Rodrigues, Prakask Naik, Bento Andrew, Ramesh Redkar, Armando Colaco, Steven Benedic Dias, Anthony Fernandes, Alvito D’Cunha,

Womens football: Elvy Fernandes nee Goes, Vinda Fernandes, Rekha Kamat Karapurkar, Fatima rodrigues, Carol Fernandes E Gomes, Ritinha Pereira, Helen Fernandes, Elma D’Cunha, Clementina Fernandes, Sheila Fernandes, Juliana Gurjao E Colaco, kamal Shirodkar Nee Pereira, Succorina Pereira, Tracy Pereira, Yolanda de Souza kammermeier, Maria Rebello.

Football Administrators: Vilas Sardessai, Alberto Colaco, Shivinand Salgaocar,

International football referees: Melvyn D’souza, Walter Pereira, Alex Vaz, Gokuldas Nagvekar, C.J. Vaz, J.P d’Mello, Manuel Pereira,

Mens Hockey: Cornelius D’Costa, Cheops D’Costa, Joaquim Carvalho, George Pereira, Joseph d’Mello, Reginald Rodrigues, Diago D’Souza, John Mascarenhas, Gilbert Lobo, Olympio Fernandes, Leo Pinto, Francis Coutinho, Lawrie Fernandes, James D’Costa, Walter De Souza, Gabriel Lewis, Darryl D’Souza, Edgar Mascarenhas (jr), John Correia, Edgar Mascarenhas, Kenneth Fernandes, Maxie Vaz, Vece Paes, Avitus D’Cruz, Cedric Pereira, Mervyn Fernandes, Francis D’mello,

Womens hockey: Selma D’silva, Sabrina vaz, anna Fiel figueira, Donita D’Mello, Loreeta D’souza, Lorraine Fernandes, Ermina Jaques Nee Menezes, Fiona Fernandes Nee Albuquerque,Angela d’souza Nee D’sa, Magaret Toscana, Sarah Alphonso Nee Rebeiro, Otilia Mascarenhas Brunst, Dr. Philomena Trinidade, Dora Coutinho, Ina Rebelo, Eula (Rodrigues) Vincent, Olga Vaz, Inez Rodricks, Ophelia D’Lima Nee D’Costa, Eliza nelson Nee Mendonca,

Hockey coaches: Cedric D’souza, Clarence Lobo,

Hockey administrators:

Major General Eustace D’souza, Jos Gonsalves, Baptist D’souza,

Hockey umpire: Blaise Sebastian Monteiro,

Swimming-diving-water polo: Anika Madgavkar, Visnhu Mahale,

Snooker: Tony Monteiro,

Table tennis: Joy Pereira Nee D’souza,

Tennis: Leander Paes,

Weight lifting: Eric Joseph Rosario  

Kenya:

Athletics: Serephino Antao, Alcino Rodrigues, Viegas Meldrita,

Field hockey: Aloysius Edward Mendonca, Michael Estava Perira, George Andre Saude, Anthony Querobino Vaz, Edgar Simon Fernandes, Reynold Anthony Da Souza, Hillary John fernandes, Egbert Carmo Fernandes, Silvester Fernandes (silu), Leo Ciricao fernandes, Reynold Pereira, Philip D’souza, Patric Martins, Rosario Dalgado, Raphael Fernandes, Giles Fernandes, Walter D’souza, Raymond d’souza, astrid fernandes, Melba D’souza, Teresa mandricks Mendonca, Mitelia Paul, Vincent Gomes,

Table tennis: Andrade jean, Sharon Braganza, Michelle Rodrigues,

Squash: Nicolette De Souza Fonseca,

Field hockey umpire: Oscar D’souza

Hockey coach: Aloysius Edward Mendonca

Football: Albert Castanha, Effle Antao, Tony Mascarenhas, George Saude,

Snooker: Ruben Rebello

           

Pakistan:

Field hockey: Peter Paul Fernandes, Jack Britto, Milton D’Mello, Gerry Barboza, Gordon Vaz,

Badminton: Menino soares,

Cricket: Wallis Mathias, Antao D’souza, Charlie D’souza

Table tennis & athletics: Maria Fernandes

Mexico:  Zeno Fernandes (hockey)

Malawi: Jack Britto (hockey)

Seychelles: Danny D’souza (International hockey)

USA: Trevor Fernandes, Carmo D’Cruz (both hockey)

East Africa: Peter D’souza, Charlie d’souza, Lawrence Fernandes (all hockey)

Uganda & Tanzania

Hockey: George Moraes, William Lobo, Polcarp Pereira, Roger Colaco, Jack Britto, Al Mathias, Michael D’sa, Eurema Colaco, Roland Colaco, Zulema De Souza Colaco, Francis Delphine, Joe Lobo, Aloysius Mathias, Denis Pereira, Osbert Remedios.      

GOA-L CUP V

SPORTS GOA: GOAN SPORTS FAN'S FAVOURITE

Mapusa boy’s were crowned champions after defeating Saligao boy’s 3-2 via the tie breaker in the finals of the 5th edition of the GOA-L Cup organized by the Goa Learning Soccer School at Saraswat grounds, on Sunday evening. After the match ended goalless the hosts Mapusa boy’s, held their nerve to snatch victory from the spot.

The winning team comprised of Captain Omkar Shinkre, Raj Thali, Dattaraj Lanjekar, Sairaj Tupsundar and Sandesh Kumbar.

Vice President of Saraswat Vidyala High School, Khorlim, Pradip Joshi was the chief guest and distributed the prizes. Sandesh Kumber was adjudged Player of the tournament; Pranav Dhavaskar was awarded the most improved player and Sankalp Shinde received a prize for the best designed football kit. The parents of the youngsters also participated in a special tie-breaker competition.

The tournament brought an end to the month long summer football coaching camp organized by the Goa Learning Soccer School (GOA-L), where 40 boys in the U-12 and U-14 category participated in learning the fundamentals of football in a fun environment, conducted by English FA qualified football coach Aldrid Da Costa.

FIRST APPEARED IN HERALD ON 1ST MAY 2012.

CHURCHILL BROTHERS FINISH TOP

SPORTS GOA: GOAN SPORTS FAN'S FAVOURITE!

After going down 1-5 in their opening match to Dempo sports club in the U-20 I-league preliminary round, Churchill Brothers Sports Club managed to fight their way back into contention to finish on six points and qualify in top spot after consecutive wins against Sporting Clube de Goa 2-1 and Salgaocar Sports Club 1-0.

“In the first game we were leading 1-0 against Dempo until the last twenty minutes when we conceded five goals. I sat down with the boy’s and told them the mistakes they were making defensively which I am happy we fixed in time,” remarked Churchill manager Willie Moraes.

Willie felt that his young side was playing too many short passes at the back and wanted possession to be controlled in their opponents half instead. He also switched from man to man marking to zonal marking which paid dividends.

Having made special trips to watch his opponents play during the Taca Goa U-20 tournament last month he then sat down with coach Alfred Fernandes and devised strategies to overcome them.

“I am really proud the way my player’s motivated themselves for victory. After defeating Sporting Clube they felt they could go on and win against Salgaocar to top the group, even though a draw would have been sufficient to qualify,” stated Willie.

Last year the age group tournament was held as a U-19 competition, where Churchill represented Goa in the final round after topping the initial round. In Kolkotta they did not do so well, losing all three of their group matches 0-2 to eventual winners JCT, 3-4 to East Bengal and 1-4 to Mumbai football club, but this year are hoping to make a greater impact.

“The tournament last year was played in June during the monsoons on a muddy waterlogged pitch, which made it virtually impossible to string passes together,” reasoned Willie.

Another factor which seriously crippled Churchill’s chances was the new footballs, which they were handed the evening before the first game. “The ball’s they used over there were very bouncy and needed time to get used to,” said Willie.

The same balls were used in this season’s preliminary competition and Willie found that the longer they trained with the balls they slowly got accustomed to them.

The final round is scheduled to take place between the 6-19 May at Kalyani, West Bengal and Willie cannot wait for the tournament to get underway, although he is happy to have nearly three weeks to prepare.

“Last year Severino Fernandes was the coach and he did a brilliant job. Watching him in action, I have become very motivated and I believe this set of boy’s can achieve something special and keep the Churchill Brothers flag flying high,” signed of Willie.

FIRST PUBLISHED IN HERALD ON APRIL 28TH 2012.

BFA FOR REVOLUTIONING FOOTBALL IN GOA

SPORTS GOA: GOAN SPORTS FAN'S FAVOURITE!

Having gone about his work seemingly unnoticed away from the media glare for the past seven months in Goa, Brasil Futebol Academia CEO Glauco Moraes has been quietly studying Indian football at close quarters and planning for the future development of the academy to take it to even greater heights.
“In Brazil, the play is built up from the back, with wing backs regularly overlapping to put in dangerous crosses. When not in possession, Brazilian teams close down a lot quicker,” remarked Glauco.

BFA was started in 2009 by two Brazilian footballers who are no strangers to Indian football. Churchill Brothers midfielder Roberto Mendes Da Silva aka “Beto” and Mohun Bagan striker Jose Ramirez Barretto enlisted the administrative support of the former GFA general secretary Savio Messias to get their dream project on the road and Savio instantly obliged.

BFA are now in the process of yet another giant leap forward. By luring the services of the former Gremio Youth development manager they not only have an expert on supervising the coaches on the training ground, but also in the board room taking care of the other side of football which is not normally seen, such as player negotiations.
Glauco explains  that the BFA has created two products. One is the academy which has trials to pick up talent, while the other is soccer classes for the younger age groups who can be absorbed into the Academy if they make the grade later.

Glauco started coaching at the ripe young age of twenty six. After suffering a serious knee injury which cut short his playing career, he headed back to college to pursue a degree in physical education. His first assignment was with Internacional which lasted about a month, before he started his sixteen year journey with the other big club in the south of Brazil, Gremio.

Gremio are famous for churning out the two-time Fifa world player of the year Ronaldinho, but Glauco is very modest about his role in his development. “Ronadinho joined the club at seven and was already fifteen by the time I arrived on the scene, although I have spent a considerable amount of time with Liverpool’s Lucas and Manchester United’s Anderson” remarked Glauco.

So are these multi million pound player’s who command staggering fees, natural born footballers or moulded by the academies? Glauco fires back, “Academies offer a structured programme which enhance the player’s strengths and highlight weakness, but the player’s who make it to the top are largely products of their own DNA as Brazil has a large exotic genetic mix.”

Glauco further enlightens, “In the olden day’s players were climbing tree’s and playing in large areas, but as playing fields are converted into plush storey high mansions academies play a larger a role in grooming the talent by introducing them to games such as futsal and physical training for agility.  
.
When talking about the coaching syllabus, Glauco points to BFA’s Coach cum manager Rafael Von Muhlen who joined the academy at the same time as Glauco and is responsible for setting the tasks for the eight grass roots coaches to follow.

“In football, a goal can be scored in an instant so our method is to encourage spontaneous and imaginative play rather than set specific targets,” reasoned Rafael summing up the Brazilian way of play.

written by ALDRID DA COSTA
FIRST PUBLISHED IN HERALD ON APRIL 23RD 2012.

FOOTBALL ANNOUNCED AS GOA STATE SPORT!

Announcing football as the state sport of Goa was a fantastic move by the government, but know it's up to the stakeholders to take on the baton and work in synergy for the betterment of GOAN FOOTBALL.

 Having a "SMART" goal which is specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and executed within a given time frame would be a great start. For example, creating the pathway for a Goan footballer to be plying his trade in the Japanese league within ten years, who would be seen as a role model.

Increasing participation among the younger age group  and involving the parents in weekend youth leagues, will help build a wider talent pool.

Having certified grassroots coaches in each village who are working in a culture of continuous improvement and meeting regularly to stay updated with the latest changes is important.

Gifted youngsters getting  picked by professional scouts for advanced scientific training at their academies are like diamonds waiting to be cut while this process creates a conveyor belt momentum.

In short, a successful footballer needs to have (1) the basic fundamental skills; (2) training to improve strength, stamina and speed, (3) the ability to read the game and finally (4) it is guts and determination which will carry him across the finish line.


By Aldrid Da Costa
Founder of the GOA Learning Soccer School (GOA-L)


FIRST APPEARED IN "MY GOA" MAGAZINE ON APRIL 15TH 2012.

NEW GENERATION TURF AT DULER!

If God made grass and man created artificial turf, which one would you choose? This topic has been argued the world over, but on Thursday the GFA’s very own Duler stadium in Mapusa was the latest ground in India to undergo the makeover towards the new 3rd generation surface, courtesy of FIFA’s ‘win in India with India’ programme.
GFA vice president Lavinio Rebello surveyed the start made by the contractors less than 24 hours after the work had begun and looked pretty impressed with the progress.
The contract to install the turf was awarded to Greenfield Sports turf systems by FIFA only recently and they have already completed grounds in Mumbai, Bangalore and Kolkata.
The man in charge of the India operation Deepak Khanolkar described in detail the stages for laying the turf which included leveling off the ground using the survey station, removal of grass and the double back up drainage which comprised of under soil and sufficient ground slopes. “The turf has a life span of 7-10 years, depending on how well it is maintained and we will give the necessary education to the grounds men to ensure maximum care is taken with the ground,” reasoned Deepak.
The current dimensions of the Duler ground are 111 metres in length by 71 metres in width, but Deepak mentioned that the size would be reduced to 105m by 65m for the safety of the players. The new dimensions would still qualify as capable of hosting an International match as FIFA guidelines specify between 100-110m for the touch line and between 64-75m for the goal line.
Deepak described the Duler ground of having roughly 95% compactness in regards to point of impact, due to it already being used regularly as a football pitch and it being rolled annually. In comparison to sand based ground in Kerala which has only 30% compactness he said his company would have to do a lot more in regards to locking the surface in place with a stronger foundation before they lay the turf.
Deepak’s main concern was once the ground was complete that the stray dogs were kept away from the ground as they could damage it, but Lavinio said that the GFA executive committee would sit down together and resolve how to take care of the problem.
Lavinio explained that the work should be finished by the end of May and would be ready for the new season, “Usually the Goan Football calendar is always hampered at the start due to the heavy monsoons with some matches having to be postponed due to the waterlogged ground, but this should not be the case once the new turf is laid,” reasoned Lavinio.

FIRST PUBLISHED IN HERALD ON 2ND MARCH 2012.

NUVEM WIN GIRL'S FOOTBALL FESTIVAL IN GOA!

SPORTS GOA: Goan Sports fan's favourite!

Agiema Borges scored the solitary goal in the second minute as Holy Rosary Convent high school, Nuvem defeated Little Flower high school, Calangute 1-0 in the All Goa finals of the Girl’s U-14 football competition organized by the Goa Football Association (Goa- Fa), in collaboration with the Directorate of sports and youth affairs on Saturday at Poriat ground, Calangute.

In the second minute Agiema wonderfully lobbed the ball over the helpless Little Flower custodian to give Holy Rosary the lead. Little Flower tried their best to draw level, but Holy Rosary held on for victory.
The following prizes were awarded: first goal scorer Agiema Borges (Holy Rosary), most promising player Adria Fernandes (Little Flower), best goalkeeper Nirmala Satarkar (Holy Rosary), goalkeeper of the tournament Rhea Noronha (Little Flower), and best player Vailanka D’Souza (Holy Rosary).

DSYA executive director Dr. Susanne De Souza was the chief guest and gave away the winner’s trophy and prizes, in the presence of GFA general secretary Alberto Colaco, GFA executive member Gajanan Kerkar and Little Flower principal Sr. Lumen Periera.

DR. AMBEDKAR FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT HELD FOR RURAL YOUTH IN GOA

SPORTS GOA: Goan Sports fan's favourite! 

Dr. Ambedkar Sports Club, Thane and kulmaiya Khadki were victorious in the 2nd All Goa Dr. Ambedkar seven-a-side boy’s rural football competition organized by DSYA at Peddem complex, Mapusa on Saturday.

In the U-19 competition Dr Ambedkar SC, Thane were first followed by Jolly Boys, Mulgao and Morjim Boys, Morjim took third place. Friend’s circle won the fair play award. 

The following individual prizes were awarded: best goalkeeper Pankaj Parwar (Shanta Durga Sc, Karapur), best defender Gopi Parwar (Jolly Boys, Mulgao), best midfielder Maha Bleshwar (Dr. Ambedkar Thane) and best forward Sarvesh Palgar (Jolly Boys, Mulgao).

In the U-16 competition Kulmaiya were first, Nuvyog SC, Mandrem were the runners up and Shanta Durga, Karapur finished third. Raathma SC, Assagao were awarded the fair play award

The following individual prizes were awarded: best goalkeeper Rakesh Mandrekar (Navyog SC, Mandrem), best defender Sunil Virnodkar (Navyog Sc, Mandrem), best midfielder Devendra Pednekar (Kulmaiya SC, Khadki) and best forward Santosh Halichandra (Kulmaiya SC, Khadki).

CALANGUTE CROWNED KINGFISHER GOA BEACH CHAMPS!

SPORTS GOA: Goan Sports fan's favourite

Calangute Association overcame Candolim sports club 6-2 in the finals of the Kingfisher Goa Beach football challenge at Calangute on Friday evening. The tournament was held in collaboration with the Goa Football Association (GFA).

With the music pumping and the strong flood lights gleaming a packed crowd made up of locals as well as domestic and overseas tourists visiting the state, witnessed a cracking tournament involving teams from village clubs from all over Goa.

It was no surprise that two local teams, egged on by their fans strong support reached the final. You could tell by the football dished out and by the buckets of sweat pouring from their jersey’s that they had only victory in mind.

In the end goals from Gauresh (3), Ashley (2) and Domnic settled the tie in Calangute’s favour. Harish and Kibber had reduced the margin for Candolim.

Earlier in the semi-finals Calangute had knocked out Panjim Footballers, while Candolim created the biggest shock by disposing of hot favourites Sporting Clube de Goa.

The two day festival was kicked off at a press conference, where former Indian Football captain Bruno Coutinho spoke passionately about Beach Football. Bruno who hails from Calangute and grew up playing football on the beach, felt that a regular League could be set up to promote the game as he believed there was an abundance of talent and enthusiasm for the sport.   

PORTUGUESE PROFESSEUR SPEAKS ON "SOCIOLOGY IN SPORT " IN GOA!

SPORTS GOA: Goan Sports fans favourite!

“We are rapidly moving to a culture of non-movement, where we prefer to use the escalator and elevators in everyday life rather than walk, which is of great concern,” stated Dr. Ana Luisa Periera addressing a workshop on “Sociology of sport”, at Vivanta by Taj, in Panjim, on Sunday.
She added that there should be compulsory a minimum of at least three hours of physical education for all school children per week to tackle health concerns such as childhood obesity, which she felt was greatly on the increase.

 In Portugal she mentioned that the physical education teacher plays an important role, because it is them who motivates and also recommends their students to attend sports club as part of extra curriculum activities if they are showing an interest for the sport.

Due to globalization, Dr. Ana felt that countries around the world are developing similar sub-cultures as the internet and modern technology is having a huge impact on youngsters and taking them away from traditional sports activities.“In the past young boy’s used to play soccer in the streets, ironically in Portugal today football academies are looking to replicate street football as part of their training, as the youth prefer to play Fifa games on their playstation.”

Dr. Ana elaborated on the “golden triangle of sport sociology”, which ecompasses professional sport, media and sponsors. She expressed that professional football clubs such as Manchester United use the media to promote their brand across the globe which makes it appealing for sponsors to invest in the sport, which in turn has a great influence on the sports a population takes up.

Using the example of her own country Portugal, she said that most youngsters want to play football because it is given extensive coverage in the news. Build up for matches can start five days in advance which attracts people from all groups of society. 

Dr. Ana also exposed the hidden curriculum that takes place in schools across the world, which is used to discriminate and maintain the status quo in society, which she believed had strong ramifications on the role of sports, as certain social classes are segregated from playing elite sports and sometimes sports equipment is expensive which deters people from taking up a certain sport.

The audience made up of strong personalities from sports in Goa felt that the topic on “sociology of sport” was a relevant one to the state and fully appreciated Dr. Ana’s contribution.
Fr Ian Figueredo, provincial, Salesian's Panjimand Konkan Province inaugurated the programme in the presence of VM Prabhuduesai, SAG'S Executive director,. Fr Wilfred Fernandes, administrator, welcomed. Dr Marie Raj principal, proposed the vote of thanks.

The workshops are being organised by Don Bosco Oratory in collaboration with SAG, GFA, Sporting Clube de Goa, and Daily Bread under the Memorandum of understanding with Porto Univerity's Department of physical education and Sports Sciences.

First published in Herald on Monday 6th February 2012.

AUSTRALIAN GRASSROOTS FOOTBALL COACHING CAMP HELD IN GOA!

SPORTS GOA: Goan Sports fans favourite!

The community grass roots football 5-day training camp under the aegis of the Goa Football Association in collaboration with Football Federation Australia came to an end on Friday at Duler stadium, Mapusa.
Twenty five coaches completed the coaching programme which started on 30th January, conducted by experienced Australian coaching instructor Mr. Norm Boardman. Goan coaches Gavin Araujo and Fausto Lobo assisted the Instructor.

The resource person’s slogan “better coaches, better football!” proved appropriate as the coaches were guided through football skilled themes such as first touch, running with the ball, 1v1, striking and focused mainly on exciting challenging game related sessions, rather than drills.

The acronym C.H.A.N.G.E I.T. (coaching style, how you score/win, area, numbers, game rules, equipment, inclusion, time) was continuously impressed on the coaches.

The participants were assessed individually on a specific topic and were given valuable pointers and the necessary tools to improve on their performance in the future. On the last day a small fun five-a-side tournament was arranged.

This was the second visit by the dedicated coaching instructor Norm Boardman to Goa in the last four months. In the future the GFA hopes that more students, players and club representatives interested in coaching come forward to avail of the unique youth development certified scheme.

Photo: participants on the course along with coach instructor Norm Boardman.
(Top row L to R) Alan Nazerath, Marcelino Pereira, Gajanan Kauthankar, Bibiano Fernandes, Anand Adkoukar, Terence D’Souza,  Mohan Parab, Mahesh Kambli, Agostinho D’Costa.
 (Middle) Laura Estibeiro, Aldrid Da Costa, Loyed Mascarenhas, Fausto Lobo (assistant instructor), Norm Boardman (coach instructor), Gavin Araujo (assistant instructor), Derick Christopher, Menino Afonso, Naresh Virnodkar, Zeena Soares.
(Bottom) Caetano Xaiver, Milagres Carvalho , Domnic Pereira, Ryan Cardosa, Purushottam Mapari, Saliya Shaikh, Jude Fernandes, Deggie Cardoza.
Leroy Almeida (not in picture)

First appeard at http://www.goa-fa.com/ on Saturday 4th February 2012.

DEMPO RELEASE WEBSITE, MERCHANDISE & PLAN ACADEMY WITH DANISH CLUB!

SPORTS GOA: Goan Sports fans favourite!

Striker Myron Manuel Fernandes of Mapusa and midfielder Aniston Jenslie Fernandes of Betalbatim were the two young Dempo sports club players selected for a three month elite training camp in Dennmark starting in February, as part of Dempo’s unique youth player development programme in collaboration with FC Midtyjlland.
The announcement was made on Saturday at a press conference at Dempo house, in Panjim along with the release of the new interactive Dempo club website and official merchandise, released at the hands of club president and Goa Football association president Shrinivas V. Dempo. Dempo also expressed the plans for a Dempo academy in Goa within eighteen months.
While the audience was serenaded by the new Dempo anthem which was created recently by a die-hard Dempo fan Anthony Nunes, the website http://www.demposportsclub.com/ was presented. A member from Rubiq solutions who designed and are hosting the website, described the main functions, which included all upcoming fixtures, video highlights of press conferences and a Fan zone to bring the community closer to the game. Dempo also added that they are aiming to have minute by minute score updates of Dempo games as part of the websites dynamic and informative characteristics.
In regards to merchandise Dempo acknowledged that there is still a long way to go in terms of earning revenue from merchandise in India, but believed now was the right time for the club to branch out in this field as another way of reaching out to the fans. A t-shirt with the Dempo Eagle crest was unveiled along with the usual extras such as coffee mugs, keyrings and wristband’s, all in the traditional blue and white of the club.
The chief guest Claus Steinlein, the head of the Danish academy who specialises in unearthing players, spoke of his elaborate plans for improving Indian football. Claus admitted that before the tie up with Dempo he did not know much about football in India, but after visiting Goa last year he was hugely surprised by the football on show.
Claus stated that football has a long way to go in India due to the popularity of cricket, but felt the future was bright and rather humorously remarked that he can envisage the day when Dennmark will play India at the 2022 world cup, but of course felt Dennmark would win. Claus had one parting message, “Unlike Goa, Dennmark is extremely cold, so Myron and Aniston should pack a lot of extra clothing as they get set to embark on their training,” reasoned Claus.
Myron Fernandes is a former student of St Britto’s high school, Mapusa and has played for Goa United and Benny XI, before joining Dempo’s age group teams. He has twice travelled to the UK for training, once with Leicester city through the Gary Lineker scholarship and also with the Manchester United soccer schools. In 2008 he visited Portugal touring with the Goa U-15 team.
This is Aniston’s first trip out of the country and he is looking forward to it. He represented St Jude’s high school, Betalbatim and played for Ave Maria Athletic & walker club U-14 team, before joining Dempo Juniors.
Standing in for coach Armando Colaco who was prevented from attending due to medical advice, Dempo assistant coach Mauricio Afonso spoke of the fantastic facilities he got to view first hand on his trip to Dennmark last year, “There was specific training for players and there were even individual coaches, something that we would like to bring to Dempo eventually,” said Mauricio.
Dempo mentioned that the club are planning to build an academy within eighteen months, but felt it was too early at this stage to say where it would be, “we have a couple of places that we own where it could be set up, but Claus preferred a different site that we had visited and we are in the process of seeing if we can acquire the land,” stated Dempo. Dempo added that they would try to accommodate a roof in the design in order for it to be utilised during the monsoons.
Present on the occasion was Satyajeet Sadanandan, president of new world consulting India, the firm which brought Dempo and FC Midtyjlland together. Gfa general secretary Alberto Colaco, along with executive members Savio Messias, Alirio Lobo and Uday Lingudkar were present. The entire Dempo squad along with manager Custodio Almeida and goalkeeping coach Camilio Gonsalves were also present.

FIRST PUBLISHED IN HERALD ON SUNDAY 29TH JANUARY 2012.

SOUTH KOREANS WIN IN GOA!

SPORTS GOA: Goan Sports fans favourite!

Hong San Won, won the match for Hallelujah football club after scoring the decisive penalty to edge out Archbishop Goa XI 6-7 via the tie breaker in an International football exhibition match at Duler stadium, here on Thursday.
In the friendliest of matches, Hallelujah defender An Dong Eun received the only yellow card of the match for his push on the back of Archbishop’s Milagres Gonsalves. The after dance by the visting team got the biggest applause of the afternoon.
“The Goa team played much better in this game and we missed many chances to score, although the atmosphere was not the same as the flood lit match. You also have to give a lot of credit to the Salgaocar boy’s who played just 24 hours earlier in the Goa Pro League,” reasoned Arhcbishop Goa XI manager Lawrence Gomes.
In the eight minute, Hallelujah clearly showed their intentions, when Park sang Hyun rifled a stinging drive against the post.
Three minutes later, danger man Hallelujah’s Jung Jae Yoon hit the outside of the post after receiving a pass from Park Han Woong. 
On the half hour mark Hallelujah’s Yoon Dong Hyun had his goal rightly ruled offside by the referee’s assistant.
Archbishop’s best attempt came when captain Fr. Valentine Alvares crossed and Milagres wonderfully dummied, but Valzinho shot over the cross bar.
In the second session, both team’s made four changes each, mainly looking to increase their scoring options.
Within ten minutes, Archbishop’s Gabriel Fernandes saw his wonderful strike from outside the box tipped over the cross bar, by the rival goalkeeper. Five minutes later, Milagres headed the ball into the back of the net, from a Valzinho free kick, but the referee disallowed the goal as there was an infringement with Hallelujah custodian.
In the remaining part of the half hallelujah steamed forward on numerous occasions, with the threat coming mainly from substitute defender Kim Hyun Gee, but the Goa defence stood firm and so it would be penalties which would decide the fate of this tie.
The successful penalty takers for Hallelujah were Jung Jae Yoon, Oh Gi Jae, Kim Dong Hyo, Kim Hyun Gee, Shin Hyun kuk, Ju Myeong Gyo and Hong San won.
Valzinho Fernandes, Basileo Rego, Wellington Fernandes, Fulgencio Cardozo, and Perryson Rebello converted for Archbishop Goa XI, while Rosario Mendes saw his attempt come back of the cross bar.
Gfa south vice president Elvis Gomes was the chief guest and gave away the winner’s trophy. Gfa north vice president Lavinio Rebello along with Gfa Bardez members Alirio Lobo, Uday Lingudkar and Babli Mandrekar were present. Jesus Ribeiro splendidly compeered the event and thanked Kennedy D’Silva for organizing the event. 
Milagres Gonsalves was awarded the best forward prize, Keenan Almeida received the best defender award and Macklas Moraes won the best goalkeeper award, all from Archbishop Goa XI.
Kim Jun Sung of Hallelujah was awarded the best defender of his team and striker Jung Jae Yoon was adjudged the man of the match.

FIRST PUBLISHED IN HERALD ON 27TH JANUARY 2012.

SOUTH KOREAN TEAM PLAY IN GOA!

SPORTS GOA: Goan Sports fans favourite!

The re-match is set to be even more exciting, as Archbishop Goa XI look to avenge Sunday’s 1-2 loss to visiting classy South Korean outfit Hallelujah Football club when they do battle at Duler stadium, Mapusa on Thursday at 4pm.
In the last encounter Goa took a shock fifth minute lead through Salgaocar’s Milagres Gonsalves 30 yard strike, but then lost out after Park Han Woonk and Kim Junsung settled the tie in the visitors favour.
“The atmosphere was amazing, and this did the players a world of good. The crowd really made a difference and we are extremely grateful for their support,” remarked Archbishop Goa XI coach Mathew D’Costa. He believed that this game was also a good experience for the players to move out of their usual comfort zones and excel. 
The Dempo academy coach stated that the fans can expect another great performance from the young Goa team. “We knew our opponents would be technically superior, so we just had to go out and work to our strengths, the boy’s put maximum effort and you can expect more of the same in the re-match,” reasoned Mathew.
Gfa North vice president Lavinio Rebello is looking extremely forward to the game as it will not only be an opportunity for the local crowd to witness a foreign team, but it could also very well be the last match played on grass at the Duler stadium, before the astro-turf is laid.
“It is an excellent opportunity for the Bardez fans to witness an overseas XI and it being a charity game we are expecting a full house,” said Lavinio.  Tickets would be priced from Rs.50 to make it more affordable. The money raised will go to the Saligao Seminary.

FIRST PUBLISHED IN HERALD ON 26th JANUARY 2012.

GOA-L CUP IVth EDITION

SPORTS GOA: Goan Sports fans favourite!

Mapusa boys defeated Saligao boys 3-2 via the tie breaker in the IVth edition of the GOA-L cup organized by the Goa Learning Soccer School at Saraswat ground, Mapusa recently. Eight teams participated in the league cum knock out tournament.

Kapil Gawade, Keegan D'sa, Vibanshu Mandrekar, Manthan Vengurlekar and Siddharaj Pilankar made up the winning team. Pruthvesh Pednekar was voted the player of the tournament and Anshul Lanjekar was adjuged the most improved player.

The competition brought an end to the 21 day football camp organized by the Goa Learning Soccer School (GOA-L), in Mapusa and Saligao. Fourty four participants aged between 10 and 14 took part in the three week programme which focused on teaching the fundamentals of football in a fun environment. 

REMO VISITS YOUTH FOOTBALL CAMP

 

SPORTS GOA: Goan Sports fans favourite!

Goa's famous musician REMO FERNANDES, gave a few words of encouragement and posed for a photo with the pupil's of The GOA Learning Soccer School (GOA-L), at Saligao church recently.

The players were excited to meet  him as they had grown up listening to his music and were even more thrilled after getting to shake hands with the Goan music legend.