When Alberto Colaco returned to the Goa Football Association (GFA) in 2011 for his sixth term as secretary—his first as general secretary, a paid role—his official salary was just one rupee per month. This symbolic contract reflected his long-standing dedication to football rather than monetary gain.
Colaco had previously completed a decade as general secretary of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) before accepting the GFA role offered by then-president Shrinivas Dempo. Known for his tireless and selfless contributions since joining the GFA executive committee in 1979, he was the natural choice for the lifetime achievement award in football administration.
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“Everyone appreciates a felicitation; it recognises the work done over the years,” Colaco said after receiving the award from Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Friday. “Football has always been my passion, and I’m fortunate that my services have been recognised by the state government, the Sports Journalists Association of Goa, and the GFA. My family has also been very supportive.
