Sporting Clube de Goa’s Community program finishes on a high

An exciting five-a-side event was organised to bring an end to Sporting Clube de Goa’s U-12 Community football program which was held in partnership with Don Bosco High School at Don Bosco ground, Panjim on Saturday.

The year round youth training initiative took a short break as the young participants prepare for their important end of year exams.

Forty-one players took part in the tournament on the last day, while a total of 76 wards in the U-10 and U-12 category experienced the program during the course of the last academic year.

Football coaching is offered three times a week to Don Bosco students and also neighbouring schools in the capital, to give them an introduction to football regardless of their ability.

The School and professional football club aim to widen the base of participation in the sport at the grassroots level, whilst also focusing on studies.

 This is endeavour is promoted extensively by the principal of Don Bosco High School Fr. Dominic Savio Fernandes as well as the Sporting Clube de Goa president Peter Vaz.

The training conducted by the Flaming Oranje coaches not only teaches the fundamentals of soccer, but also builds self-esteem, demonstrates tolerance, respect and inclusion for all.

It is hoped that the more talented players will eventually be absorbed into the competition age group teams, keeping with Sporting Clube de Goa’s motto of “Growing Goa’s Game!” 

Don Bosco High School lifts Sporting Clube de Goa U-12 trophy

Tournament top scorer, Aman Govekar blasted home the winner as Don Bosco High School, Panjim edged out St Britto’s High School 1-0 in the finals of the 2^nd All Goa U-12 Sporting Clube de Goa football tournament, at Don Bosco ground, Panjim on Saturday.

In total 10 teams participated in the one day seven-a-side soccer festival which started on a great note, as the continuous unexpected rains throughout the night, left the lush soil in perfect condition for the young stars to exhibit their talent.

The schools were divided into two groups with the team’s playing on a league basis. Don Bosco finished top of group “A”, while St Britto’s finished second. In group “B” Loyola’s topped and Fr. Agnel was second. All four teams qualified for the semi finals.

Loyala High School, took third place after overcoming Fr. Agnel Pilar, High School 3-2 via the tie breaker in the third and fourth place play off.  The match ended 1-1 with Samward Pereira scoring for Loyala and Nikhil Shetty netting for Fr. Agnel.

An exhibition match between Sporting Clube de Goa’s community team and Don Bosco ‘B’ team was held before the final which finished in an exciting 2-2 draw.

Winners Don Bosco took home Rs.5,000 and trophy, runners- up St Britto’s received Rs. 3,000 and trophy. Loyala’s collected Rs. 1,500 for finishing third and fourth placed Fr. Agnel were awarded Rs.1,000. All participants were given certificates and the two finalists were given full playing kit.

The following players won individual prizes: Neil Miranda of Loyala’s (most outstanding goalkeeper ), Baggio Mascarenhas of St Britto’s (best defender), Velburn Quadros of St Britto’s (best midfielder), Shannon Viegas of Don Bosco (best striker) and Aman Govekar of Don Bosco (highest goal scorer) .   

Don Bosco High School Prinicipal, Fr. Dominic Savio Fernandes was the chief guest and gave away the winner’s trophy. “The tournament was a splendid advertisement for youth soccer. I want to thank Models chairmen and former pupil of Don Bosco Peter Vaz, for collaborating with the school and sponsoring the event,” remarked Fr. Dominic.

Fr. Igidio Fernandes and Sporting Clube de Goa players Mathew Gonsalves (captain), Freiman Peixote, Angel Berlanga, Juanfri and physio Abhijeet Chatterjee were the guests of honour.

Eddie Noronha compeered and Sporting Clube de Goa CEO Victor Fernandes proposed the vote of thanks. Sporting Goa competitions director Angelo Albuerquerque was also present along with photographer Carlton D’Mello.

Anthony Vaz, Joao Pereira and Ashwin Crasto refereed the matches. Sporting Goa equipment manager Shanu kankonkar was also showered with a token of appreciation for his contribution to the club.