Team Herald
PANJIM: A new chapter opened in Goan football with the resignation of GFA president Churchill Alemao following a High Court verdict on Thursday.
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However, for the football strongman who wears his heart on his sleeve, it will be the same old chapter – sheer love for the beautiful game which he has patronized all his life.
Churchill bid adieu to office, saying on Thursday, “I respect the verdict of Honourable High Court given today and in view of the same, I have already tendered my resignation as the President of Goa Football Association (GFA) with immediate effect.”
Churchill, 73, added: “I must mention that the new draft constitution of AIFF also adopts the National Sports Code Development of India, 2011 which categorically states that the age limit shall be 70 years.
“At the same time, the National Sports Code sets a term limit specifying that those in the Committee have to take a cooling break after a period of eight years, as one should not hold office consecutively for more than two terms or 8 years.
“I recall what I have said at the last Annual General Body meeting (AGM) held on 31st July 2022 at the Casa do Povo Hall, Goa Velha.
“I had reiterated that I would abide by the decision of the High Court concerning the age-bar and that’s exactly what I have done today. I respect the verdict.”
The owner of Churchill Brothers FC, who have lit up the Indian football firmament for decades, had a hand in the genesis of professional football in the country.
He brought in top footballers in the mould of professionals, even, in time, some sparkling foreigners.
Not shying of expenses, he often dug into his family’s assets to fund the cause for the sport and is a proud possessor of a letter of appreciation from FIFA, the global apex body for football.
“I place on record the help and assistance I received. Especially, I acknowledge the special grant of Rs. 50 Lakh provided to GFA by the Goa Government’s CM Dr Pramod Sawant.
“Besides there are several other organizations like the AIFF, SAG, DSYA, GFA Clubs and officials , other Government offices and several officials and individuals, match officials, sponsors, sub-committee members, Executive Committee members who supported me. There also well wishers, office staff and others who lent their valuable support and extended cooperation of high order.”
He concluded in emotional vein: “Football is in my blood and shall so remain until my last breath, having been at the helm of Goa’s presently only I-League Club Churchill Brothers which is in existence for the past four decades with an excellent record. Moreover, FIFA, AFC, the whole country and several parts of the world know the contribution made by Churchill Alemao for Indian football.”
And that is nothing more, nor less, than the truth.
