PANJIM: The Office of the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities organised grand welcome ceremony to honour the extraordinary achievements and success of the Goan contingent returning home after participating at the 2023 Special Olympics World Summer Games, Berlin, at Dabolim Airport, on Wednesday..
The 23-member squad from Goa, including medal winners Venson Paes, Joel Rodrigues, Francis Parisapogu and Aman Nadaf (Gold, 7-a-side football),Aslam Ganjanawar (Silver, Judo), Manfil Ferrao (Gold, Basketball), Taniya Usgaonkar (Silver and Bronze, Skating), Geetanjali Nagvenkar (Gold, Athletics) and SiyaSarode ( Gold (2), Powerlifting) were congratulated on their arrival.
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The function was graced by Subhash Phal Dessai, Minister for Social Welfare, Reginald Lourenco, MLA, Curtorim, Carlos Alvares Fereira, MLA, Aldona, Guruprasad Pawaskar, State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Taha Haaziq Secretary, Office of the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities and Ajit Panchwadkar, Director, Department of Social welfare. Others present included government officials, sports enthusiasts, friends, and family members of the athletes.
Speaking at the ceremony, Subhash Phal Dessai said, “I am proud of what our Goan athletes have achieved in Berlin. Being a witness to their skill and hardwork, I can definitely say that they have made us realise that the power of self determination and positivity. Goa is proud of the athletes, the coaches and support staff who have tirelessly worked to get us these results for Goa and for our country.”
Guruprasad Pawaskar expressed joy over the success achieved by Goan para-athletes. “The Special Olympics witnessed extraordinary performances by our talented athletes, who displayed unmatched skill, indomitable spirit, and unwavering dedication throughout the competition. Their efforts and relentless pursuit of excellence have resulted in an outstanding medal tally, bringing home numerous gold, silver, and bronze medals across various disciplines.”
He added that the Office of the Commission for Persons with Disabilities is proud of its athletes. “Many returned back home with medals, but the entire contingent has won our love and respect for their unbeatable confidence and determination. Our office will leave no stone unturned to facilitate opportunities, training to athletes so that the our medal tally increases next time.”
State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities also appreciated the efforts put in by Victor R. Vaz, National Sports Director of Special Olympics Bharat, President of Special Olympics Goa Luis Feranades, Vrushali Cardozo and others in making the tour a grand success.
13 athletes from Goa were part of the Indian team participating in unified Football (male and female), Futsal (male), athletics (male and female), roller skating (Female), basketball (male and female), judo (male and female), powerlifting (female), unified volleyball (male and female) and handball.
Over 7,000 athletes representing 190 delegations participated in the Special Olympics World Games 2023.
