PANJIM: With the election of the President’s post scheduled on October 30, Goa Football Association (GFA) will be looking to bank on an experienced hand to revive its sagging fortunes. Jose Welvin Maximo de Menezes has submitted his candidature for the post.
Menezes, who is vying for the top post, is armed with a vast experience of sports administration under his belt, and knows the inner workings of GFA. He has served as GFA Executive Committee Member for three terms (2010-14, 2014-18 and 2018-22). He has also been the Honorary General Secretary during 2016-18, and AIFF Players Status Committee Member (2012-16). He is currently Sporting Clube de Goa CEO (since 2019) and Goa Velha Sports Club President (since 2015)
One of the main issues that needs urgent attention at GFA is the financial aspect. With funds drying up and sponsors unwilling to come on board, Menezes is determined to bring about a turnaround.
“GFA needs to work in association with the state government for support. GFA and Goa Football Development Council could work together to promote youth football. There are a couple of sponsors who are ready to come on board if I get elected,” he said.
Menezes also said that GFA owns land at Duler which can be developed into a self-sustaining initiative.
“I have spoken with some stakeholders where we could develop it. Revenue generated could help GFA organise tournaments, etc. with its own funds. It is a long-term project which will serve GFA to be a self-sustainable organisation in the future,” Menezes said.
More importantly, Menezes says that if elected, he will work to get a clubhouse for GFA. “The GFA House will be a reality. I will work to identify land where we can build this,” he said.
Menezes says that he has the support of football clubs. As part of his vision to take football forward, Menezes said that youth development and welfare schemes for players and referees will be looked into.
“We need to promote youth development football. We have to start from the grassroots. Players, referees and clubs deserve recognition. We need to acknowledge them, maybe by having player of the month, club of the month and referee of the month awards. Also, GFA has a benevolent fund for players, but there is nothing for the referees. So I plan to have a similar fund that can benefit referees post retirement,” he said.
