Team Herald
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PANJIM: A delegation led by Goa Olympic Association (GOA) Secretary General Gurudatta Bhakta along with representatives of various State sports associations (SSAs) met with Sports Authority of Goa (SAG) Executive Director Dr Geeta Nagvenkar, at the SAG office, Athletic Stadium, Bambolim.
The purpose of the meeting was to bring to the attention of the SAG several pressing issues affecting the functioning and development of sports bodies and athletes in the State.
The delegation formally handed over a memorandum detailing their concerns and expectations, seeking immediate redressal and proactive collaboration from the Sports Authority of Goa.
The Goa Football Association (GFA) President Caitano Fernandes, GOA Treasurer Jayesh Naik, Goa Hockey Association Secretary Farrell Furtado, Goa State Tennis Association President Sachin Dukle, Goa Gymnastics Association President Sudesh Thakur, Goa Fencing Association President Yogesh Thakur and Goa Triathlon Association Secretary Nisha Madgavkar, were among those who were part of the delegation.
The key issues raised during the meeting included, release of long-pending grants, wherein many State associations are struggling financially due to non-receipt of grants for several years, severely affecting their ability to field teams at national championships, stated a press release issued by the Goa Olympic Association.
With regards to the provision of rent-free facilities for selection trials, the associations emphasised the need for free access to SAG infrastructure when conducting selection trials for teams representing Goa, considering it a matter of State representation.
Appointment of coaches, the absence of qualified coaches in several disciplines continues to hamper the growth of sports in the State. The delegation urged the SAG to expedite the recruitment of coaches to support SSAs.
Support for ranking tournaments, with national federations organising ranking events, the delegation requested that the SAG consider covering such participation costs under the grant-in-aid schemes.
Given the steep rise in travel, accommodation and food expenses, the SSAs called for an immediate revision of grant amounts to reflect current costs.
The delegation strongly recommended that equipment procured for the National Games be handed over to the respective State associations for optimal use, preventing wastage and deterioration.
The GOA also acknowledged and appreciated recent positive steps initiated by the SAG under Dr Nagvenkar’s leadership, including surprise inspections, improved monitoring mechanisms and the enforcement of codes of conduct, all of which signal a renewed commitment to transparency and professionalism in Goan sport.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with Dr Nagvenkar assuring the delegation of SAG’s continued support in strengthening the sports ecosystem in the State. Both parties expressed confidence in working collaboratively towards enhancing infrastructure, governance and opportunities for Goan athletes across disciplines.