PANJIM: The Goa Football Association (GFA) condoled the death of its former passionate football promoter, who excelled in technical and legislative matters from 1977 to 1993, Advocate Albino Vales, who passed away at his residence at Chicalim following a massive heart attack. He was 83 and is survived by his wife, a son and a daughter.
Churchill Alemao, GFA president, in his condolence message highlighted Albino’s resolute contribution for the football development in the State especially in technical matters, having been the president, vice-president of the then GFA’s Technical Committee and joint secretary of the managing committee from 1979-81 and later on as member of the Jury of Appeal. “His love and commitment for football saw him heading the then Patrong Sports Club for almost 25 years, which at one time was one of the leading clubs from the Mormugao Zone, having even taken a leading role in women’s football promotion.”
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“Albino would always make it a point to participate in the general body meetings and offer positive suggestions for the development of the beautiful game which was very close to his heart. Due to his immense contribution for football, he was designated as one of the founder members during the registration of the GFA under the Societies Act,” Churchill added.
Anil Kamat, AIFF’s assistant general secretary and director of competitions, recalled Albino’s nomination in AIFF’s disciplinary panel in late nineties due to his expertise in football matters. “He was very knowledgeable in legal matters related to football,” he added.
GFA Vice President South Anthony Pango stated, “Albino’s contribution towards the beautiful game just cannot be expressed in words. He had vast knowledge about the sport and was instrumental in streamlining various things at GFA in the past. Goan football community will miss him. Condolences to his family.”
“It’s a huge loss to football fraternity. He was instrumental in preparing statutes of GFA and never missed an AGM of GFA. My condolences to his family,” stated GFA Executive Member Babli Mandrekar.
Francisco Chiquito Nunes, GFA’s executive committee member from Mormugao Zone, described Albino as a very dedicated, determined and passionate about football promotion with an eye for matters pertaining to constitution as well as technical ones in terms of competitions.
Adlear D’Cruz, another GFA executive committee member from Mormugao, pointed out, “Patrong under the leadership of Albino had successfully organised the prestigious Johnny Memorial Shield at MPT ground, Vasco for several years and that the club was known as the pioneer of women’s football in Goa.”
