TEAM HERALD
sports@herald-goa.com
PANJIM: The last rites of legendary Domnic Soares will be performed tomorrow, Sunday, September 29th at his native village of Saligao.
The funeral cortege of Goa’s unforgettable football legend, the dribbling wizard, Domnic Soares, will leave his residence at 3.00 pm for the Mae de Deus church of Saligao, for the eucharistic rites after which the cortege will wend its way to the Saligao cemetery where he will be laid to rest.
Domnic whose sudden death from a massive cardiac arrest suffered early Friday morning sent the entire football fraternity of Goa, including many in India who knew him for his magical and mystic dribbling skills, into mourning, leaving behind a legacy.
Domnic’s daughter Tracy Remedious and son Titus Soares both based in Dubai and his other son Terence Soares based in Bangalore arrived today along with their families. His older daughter Tanya D’Souza, based in London is schedule to arrive tomorrow morning.
All India Football Federation in a statement condoled the untimely passing away of Goa’s most gifted and legendary footballer Domnic who was part of famous ABCD strike force (Andrew, Bernard, Catao, Dominic). Domnic was not only an outstanding player but also considered an excellent coach, the statement read.
Mr Kushal Das ,General Secretary, in his condolence message said: “AIFF condoles the death of Dominic and extends its heartfelt condolences to the members of the bereaved family and prays for the peace of the departed soul. May he rest in peace.”
Ten Action channel commentator Savio Messias, while running live commentary during the Churchill Brothers and Mohun Bagan I-League match played at the packed Duler stadium, which is viewed over all of Asia paid tributes to Dominic. He recalled Dominic’s artistic and ace dribbling who mesmerized his opponents. “He could weave his way through four to five opponents,” Savio said.
Speaking to Herald, Savio said that Domnic was a through gentleman, on pitch as well as off the pitch. “ All over his playing career he never once was ever booked by the referee,” Messias said.
“Domnic was a brilliant dribbler. His two goals against Taj Club from Iran in the DCM Cup in 1969 was a testimony of his talent. Its very sad and shocking to learn that Domnic is no more,” said Vinod Parkot, former president of Vasco SC.
Gajan Kerkar, GFA executive member said that Domnic was humility personified. As organising secretary of the Goa Pro League, Domnic would attend matches and sit amongst the fans. “ I would escort him to the VVIP stand as mark of respect for such a legend.”
Mahesh Lotlikar, former Coach of Mumbai Tigers in his condolence message described Domnic Soares as genius who will be remembered by Goans for his striking prowess .
Mauricio Afonso, Assistant coach of Dempo Sports Cub said Domnic was truly great footballer and one of the most skilful players said Afonso.
Mario Soares ,Assistant coach of Salgaocar Sports Club offered his condolences and described him a great footballer .
Joe Dias, President of Salcete Football Club said Domnic was a legend, while Anthony Pango GFA Executive member and Joe Menny Furtado, president of Union of Chinchinim Villagers also condoled Soares’s death.
Anthony Fernandes , former GFA’s secretary of youth development and secretary of AAFA expressed shock. “It was wonderful working along with Domnic who was known for his simplicity and patience. He trained our U-16 and U-18 lads, where two of his boys Godwin Franco and Denzil Franco are making waves in the football industry.
GFDC Chairman Dr Rufino Monteiro in his condolence message said: Football has lost a great player, the likes of which is yet to be seen. In the sudden untimely death of Domnic, Goa has lost one of her sons who has a magical hold on the ball enthralling us in our younger days with an awesome dribbling prowess outwitting opponents to score or assist in scoring superb goals.” Dr Monteiro coveyed his grief and expressed his sympathy to the bereaved family.
