Team Herald
sports@herald-goa.com
RAIA: Perpetual Succour Convent High School, Navelim, held a grand felicitation ceremony to honour the U-15 boys' football team that represented the State at the 63rd edition of the Subroto Cup International Football Tournament 2024, at Ravindra Bhavan, Margao. The team was recognised for their outstanding performance in the tournament, particularly for remaining undefeated throughout their matches.
Physical Education teachers Jonathan Faleiro, Joaquina Dias and Soniya Dessai were also felicitated in a ceremony held before the staging of the operetta ‘The Ship That Sailed To Save Souls’, which depicts the life of St Francis Xavier.
The felicitation was conducted by sports personality Savio Madeira, the current Technical Director of Sporting Clube De Goa, former coach educator of the All India Football Federation and former head coach of the Indian football team. In his address, Madeira congratulated the school and the team for their remarkable achievements. He particularly praised the coach for guiding the team to success and expressed his appreciation for Sr Libia Fernandes, the headmistress, who provided unwavering support and motivation by attending all the matches. Madeira also acknowledged the parents for their continuous support in nurturing their children's sporting talents.
"This accomplishment is truly significant because you have maintained an undefeated record. We are all very proud of your commitment, talent, and teamwork," Madeira said to the team. "May you continue to bring more accolades to the State and soar higher," he added.
Rev Fr Patricio Fernandes SJ also graced the occasion, offering his blessings to the team members and wishing them success in their future endeavors.
Earlier in August, the team secured the state championship title with an impressive 4-0 victory over Don Bosco High School, Panjim, which qualified them for the tournament in Bengaluru. Although the team did not advance to the quarterfinals, they remained undefeated in all three matches they played in Bengaluru. Their first match against Jharkhand ended in a goalless draw, followed by a thrilling 5-0 victory against Airforce School. In their final and most crucial match against Chandigarh, despite showcasing exceptional skill, accurate passing, and quick counterattacks, the game ended in a 0-0 draw, preventing them from reaching the quarters.
Throughout the entire tournament, the team did not concede a single goal, a testament to their defensive strength. They played a total of six matches in Goa before emerging as State champions, marking their second State championship win, the first being in 2022.