PANJIM: The Goa Football Association, on behalf of the football fraternity, players and officials, condoled the death of Vilas Rao Sardessai.
Being the first ever Goan to have been elected Vice-President of the All India Football Federation, (AIFF), Sardessai displayed organisational capabilities during the Jawaharlal Nehru Cup held at Goa in 1989. It was his efforts that Goans had the privilege of watching the Vasa Izo team from Hungary in action in an exhibition match against Goa XI in Panjim.
Sardessai had been the manager of the Indian football team and was one of the chief architects of the National Football League. He was honoured with the Jivabadada Kerkar Award in 1992 for his contribution to the organisation of football.
“The Goa Football Association will always remain indebted to Vilas Rao Sardessai for his contribution to the development of Goan football. Sardessai served in the Goa Football Association in various capacities,” said the AIFF release.
The President of Goa Football Association, Elvis Gomes said, “Vilas Rao Sardessai’s love for the game is epitomized in the dedication and commitment he chose to devote to the cause of the Dempo Sports Club, Goa Football Association and the All India Football Federation. The Goa Football Association has benefited immensely from the efforts and experience of Sardessai.”
The chairman of GFDC Dr Rufino Monteiro condoled the passing away of Vilas V Sardessai.
“During the tenure of Vilas V Sardessai, Goan football has seen many ‘highs’ and the best tribute to him will be our efforts to propel Goan football to a glorious high level in the country.”
The Chairman, Vice – Chairman, Member Secretary and Members of the Council condoled his sad demise.
Lavinio Rebello, GFA Vice-President (North) said, “It was during Vilas Sardessai’s tenure as AIFF Vice-President and GFA President that Goa hosted the Nehru Cup at Fatorda and he was indirectly responsible for the construction for the stadium.”
Alberto Colaco, former GFA President and AIFF General Secretary said, “Vilas’ passion for football was very great. When he was the secretary of Dempo SC, he always kept the interest of Goa Football Association above his club.”
Patron of Sporting Clube de Goa, Peter Vaz conveyed hearth felt sympathy to his bereaved family members.
Arjuna Awardee Brahamanad Sankhawalkar was very sad to hear about Vilas’ passing away. Former GFA and AIFF Member, Babli Mandrekar said, “Vilas was one of the best administrators I have seen in my life. He had vast knowledge in football and was a great person with dignity.”
“Vilas displayed his organizational capabilities,” remarked veteran footballer, Menino Fernandes from Arlem while GFA Executive Member, Arnald D’Costa said, “He had done great service to the football fraternity in Goa and the AIFF.
GFA Executive Member, Anthony Pango called him the torch bearer of Goan football.
Orlando Godinho, coach of Mangor SC; Dinesh Naik, Sports Secretary of Cuncolim Union; Match Commissioner, Bernardinho Velho and AIFF Commissioner Ragnuth Gosawami echoed similar sentiments.
