Team Herald
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PANJIM: The Goa Football Association (GFA) released its “report card” showcasing progress made over the past three years while reaffirming its commitment to complete the remaining goals within the final year of its term.
While addressing the mediapersons at the GFA headquarters, President Caitano Fernandes in the presence of Vice-President Jonathan De Sousa stated that the GFA’s five-pronged agenda - revamping league, boosting revenue, advancing coach, referee education, improving infrastructure and focusing on youth and women’s football has seen significant headway.
Despite the strides made, the GFA acknowledged that infrastructure development and sustainable sponsorship continued to be their biggest challenges.
“To build the infrastructure, the Goan football deserves, we estimate a need of Rs 30 to Rs 40 crore. This cannot be met through traditional sponsorship alone it needs government support at the State level,” the president said.
The president said that while the land is available, developing proper facilities, especially at the Duler ground, would require long-term investment. A proposal for a three-storey facility on the 507 sq mts plot at Duler, estimated to cost Rs 1.26 crore, will be tabled at the upcoming Annual General Meeting. The plan aims to make the ground for I-League compliant and reduce the burden on the clubs currently spending up to Rs 1.5 crore annually to play at Fatorda.
“Significant administrative changes have also been made under the current regime. The GFA has decentralised operations, opening offices in South Goa and Duler, reducing the need for clubs to travel to Panjim for basic needs. This was part of our original vision plan and it’s been successfully implemented,” Caitanao said.
Looking ahead, the GFA president hinted at new initiatives to boost sponsorships. “Talks are ongoing with major companies namely Coca-Cola and Johnson & Johnson. With sports now included under Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funding, the GFA hopes to secure corporate partnerships. Sponsors want visibility and crowd engagement. Our aim is to help each of Goa’s 195 clubs build a loyal local fan base,” he added.
Additionally, the association is considering launching one or two intellectual properties rights to enhance engagement and attract sponsors. If all goes well, an announcement could be expected within the next month.
When asked if the GFA would make sweeping changes in the final year, the leadership firmly denied the need for drastic shifts.
“In the first year, we focused on course correction. We’ve stabilised the ship. Now, we will continue progressing steadily, not disruptively,” the president concluded.
With a strong push in its final year, the GFA aims to not just complete its original vision but also leave behind a sustainable roadmap for Goa football’s future.