Team Herald
PANJIM: The wounds still being fresh after the shocking molestation incidence, the Goa Swimming Association has come under heavy criticism after former players accused the association of malpractices and questioned the appointment and termination of coach Surajit Ganguly when he wasn’t appointed at all.
“The whole episode of termination is just to safeguard their interest. Surajit was never given any appointment letter by the GSA and when the molestation incident came to light they (GSA) came with the termination to safeguard themselves and protect them,” said Kaustubh Natekar, a former National swimmer and State champion while addressing the press in Panjim.
The former National swimmer claimed that Surajit Ganguly used to charge a hefty fee of Rs 5,000 per month and none of it was given to the governing bodies.
Surajit charged Rs 5,000 every month from each player and had around 50 to 60 trainees under him. Surprisingly the facility was used free of cost and nothing was paid to the SAG. The entire fee was kept by Ganguly. Atleast some funds could have been utilised to maintain the facilities used. The question is why only Ganguly was allowed to use the facility free of cost and was protected by GSA?,” questioned Natekar, who added that Ganguly was shielded by the Association.
The group involved former National swimmers and parents of the present swimmers, demanded good sporting culture and the association to work towards the betterment of the sport.
“GSA were the ones to create groups among the swimming fraternity. Those paying the fees were given good treatment and those who weren’t paying had to work with other SAG coaches. Out of the 50-60 students coaching under Surajit, 10 were given free coaching,” lamented Natekar.
The group also alleged in malpractices in the recommendation of two swimming coaches Afra Sheikh and Jerry D’Mello to SAG by the GSA.
“Today also GSA went with recommendations without proper order. The association didn’t welcome any applications for the post but instead directly gave the recommendation for the coaching job. Every time if the Association gives a letter recommending the coaches, then how a qualified and deserving coach would apply and get the job,” added Kaustubh and said, “We want swimming to flourish and not with such malpractices. We demand Abdul to come clear on all financials and Ganguly’s appointment. If he doesn’t have proper details, then he should resign and help expose others involved in such scam.”
