PANJIM: After serving for six and half years, Dr Rufino Monteiro has called it a day at the Goa Football Development Council.
Speaking to Herald, Dr Rufino Monteiro, who was the chairman of the academy right from its inception, said, “It was time for me to take the call as I did a lot here. GFDC has to be taken to the next step by a new person as it has to go to a higher level of excellence,”
“GFDC has grown as big unit with approximately 4000-5000 trainees spread across 37-38 centres with over 120 coaches. We also have one residential academy,” Rufino explained.
Dr Rufino submitted his resignation on November 2. When sought to know the reason behind his decision Rufino said that it was purely on his personal grounds. “There are lot of opportunities coming up in the medical field and the decision to step down was purely due to personal reasons,” he revealed.
“But my highest point of achievement was when our trainees were selected to represent India and other national academies,” Rufino said.
When asked about his probable replacement, Rufino quipped, “That’s a question that the government and the Sports Minister should answer.”
“Everyone should get together and work towards the development of Goan football. The new GFA Executive Committee along with GFDC and Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs should work towards the development of the Goan football,” Rufino exclaimed.
The outgoing Chairman also stressed upon GFA to give the required affiliation to the GFDC as his last wish so as to ensure the academicians to participate in the National football league.
“Previously we had this problem where our boys (GFDC trainees) couldn’t participate in the junior I-League as GFA had failed to give the required affiliation. But, now having our GFDC member in the GFA, I hope our academy gets the affiliation so that the boys get a chance to play together as a team at National platform. Earnest appeal to all to work towards the development of football.” He concluded.
