Team Herald
FATORDA: The Futsal Association of Goa (FAG) will host the 4th Senior National Futsal Championship, under the aegis of Futsal Association of India (FAI) from December 8 -12, at Peddem Sports Complex, Mapusa.
FAG President Benjamin Silva said, “It gives me immense pleasure and great joy to announce that the State is will host its first ever futsal national event. Being the defending champions in both categories —men and women —it makes it even more special to host it. The Senior National Futsal Championship is planned with lot of future opportunities for our Indian futsal players.”
This is the first time around 27 states will be participating in the tournament.
FAI President Namdev Shirgaokar said, “Goa is known for football and it has earned its recognition in futsal lately. There is lot of talent and potential in this tiny State. Our National team comprised of maximum Goans. This is the first time that Goa will be hosting a National Futsal championship, and I already see it as a success with the huge participation as 38 teams have confirmed their entry. The FAG has been doing a great job in Goa and we wish them a good luck ahead.”
“Goa is heart of football and will become heart of futsal as well. Goans will love this game and support the nationals. FAI is looking forward to open a Futsal Academy in Goa.” Namdev Shirgaokar.
“FAI AGM is scheduled on December 9, in which FAI is taking major decision, such as association with Premier Futsal League and future path of FAI” revealed Namdev.
FAG Secretary Melwyn Pereira said, “Futsal Association of Goa has progressed from its time of inception. The sport of futsal is growing in the State and we are aiming in developing the grassroots level by going through various schools, in collaboration with Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs (DSYA) and Sports Authority of Goa. We have conducted various events in the past and we hope to raise a new generation of footballers through futsal.”
FAI started the 1st Men’s Senior Nationals in 2014 in Maharashtra wherein the host city won the championship. The success of the tournament saw the FAI conduct the event in Maharashtra itself for the second time wherein, the hosts bagged the title in 2015. In 2016, Goa bagged the double crowns in Rajasthan clinching both—men’s and women’s titles.
The draw for the tournament will be held on December 6.
