Team Herald

MARGAO: Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has announced plans to honour the late Francisco Monte Cruz, Goa's former Sports Minister, by naming one of the stands at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda after him. During the recent prize distribution ceremony of the Bhausaheb Bandodkar Memorial Trophy at Fatorda, Sawant declared, "Monte Cruz's contribution to this stadium is immense, and I am pleased to announce that one of the stands will bear his name."

Cruz, who passed away last month at the age of 79, was instrumental in the construction of the Fatorda stadium. His efforts ensured its completion in record time, allowing Goa to host the prestigious international Nehru Cup football tournament in 1989. This feat marked a significant milestone for the State, as the stadium has since become a valuable asset for Goan sports.

This honour is a long overdue one, as the State Assembly had passed a resolution back in 2021, to name a stand at the stadium after Cruz and another after former Chief Minister Pratapsingh Rane. The resolution was moved by Margao MLA Digambar Kamat, then the leader of the opposition, who had remarked that Cruz worked tirelessly, from 8 am to late in the night, personally supervising the construction work.

The announcement comes amidst an outpouring of tributes for Cruz, whose legacy in Goan sports, particularly in relation to the stadium, has left an indelible mark. There was also a demand from the public for the government to name a stand at the stadium after him.

The decision to name a stand after Cruz not only honours his memory but also serves as a testament to the lasting impact of his contributions to Goa's sporting landscape. As the State continues to benefit from the foresight of having such a stadium, this tribute ensures that Cruz's efforts will be remembered by future generations of sports enthusiasts.

FRANCISCO FERNANDES