PANJIM: Twenty-four hours to go and the Goa Football Association (GFA) will vote for a new President.
The moment of reckoning arrives on Sunday, October 30. Among many in the race to bring in changes and focus on taking the Goan football ahead is Savio Alemao, son of former GFA President Churchill Alemao.
In a conversation with Herald, Savio spoke about the vision he has for Goan football. He said that he has talked with almost all the clubs in the state and has received overwhelming response and support with which he is confident of taking Goan football to another level.
“My first aim after getting elected would be to get the Santosh Trophy back to Goa,” he said. “I will closely monitor the scouting of coaches, players and even the recruitment of players and staff for this prestigious tournament and make sure Goa fields its best team.”
Savio also plans to focus on grassroots football for both genders, especially the U-14, U-16 and U-18 levels, and the 2nd and 3rd division clubs.
When asked about the past and future of GFA and its functioning, he said, “I don’t want to comment on the past, the future has to be the best. I prefer to let my actions do the talking.
“My sister Valanka Alemao, appointed chairperson of the All India Football Federation’s (AIFF) Women’s Committee, is working closely with my father and the Churchill Brothers team and we know very well what is required for Goan football at large, especially for all clubs in the state.
“Today, clubs in Goa are facing financial difficulties and lack proper support. To this end, we will try and get aid from the AIFF. We would ensure that each club gets financial support.”
Savio raised the point on grants that Goa Football Development Council (GFDC) receives. “The GFDC gets nearly Rs 5 crore, and I will speak to the government if this grant can be split equally for GFDC and GFA,” Savio said.
Speaking on unity for the betterment and growth of football in Goa, Savio affirmed that GFDC and GFA should work together.
Savio reiterated his pledge to take Goan football forward. “I will work with a spirit of unity and make sure there is no place for discrimination in functioning and supporting the cause. We will all work as a family so that football is the winner,” he said.
(Featured Initiative)
