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PANJIM: The Goa Football Association’s (GFA) State Match Commissioner and former State football referee Greg Estrocio of Pilerne passed away after a brief illness at the Goa Medical College and Hospital, Bambolim, on Sunday. He leaves behind his wife, two children and their families. He was 68.
Greg was a well respected match official who officiated for over 20 years in various GFA’s football league competitions, earning the admiration and respect from the organisers as well as players. For his diligent work, he was appointed as the Referees Appointing Officer for GFA’s North Zone from 2018-2022.
National Match Commissioner Franky Fernandes from Colva condoled the death of Greg, who he said discharged the duties, both on and off-the field, with utmost dedication, consistency, sacrifice and pride.
"Greg worked diligently during the 2018-22 period (GFA’s Referees' Committee), sorting out problems concerning the appointment of referees even at the last minute with the sole objective that the match should not be held up. He was a great helping hand and his commitment was outstanding," added Franky.
Greg was closely associated with Pilerne’s Our Lady of Candelaria Chapel, being the president of the Confraria, having undertaken several developmental works. The date of funeral will be announced on Monday.
Meanwhile, the Goa Football Association expressed deep sorrow at the passing of Gregory Estrocio, a lifelong servant of Goan football, who dedicated over four decades to the game in multiple roles as player, referee, administrator, coach and match commissioner.
Gregory’s journey in football began as a player with a brief stint for Customs and Central Excise before he took up refereeing in 1975. He rose through the ranks and retired in 2010 as a Class 1 Referee. His contribution did not stop there as he continued his service to the game as a Match Commissioner ensuring the smooth conduct of competitions across the state.
Beyond refereeing Gregory also shaped the next generation of footballers as a coach leading the teams of VM Parulekar College and his village side Pilerne Sports Club. His commitment extended off the pitch as well where he served on the Managing Committee of Pilerne SC in various capacities including vice-president and general secretary.
Paying tribute President Caitano Fernandes said, “We are deeply saddened by the loss of Match Commissioner Gregory Estrocio. On behalf of the Association I extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. May his soul rest in peace.”
“The Goa Football Association acknowledges with gratitude Gregory’s unwavering dedication to football and the legacy he leaves behind in Goan sport,” the president concluded.