Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Goa Football Development Council reaffirmed its commitment to encouraging young girls to pursue football during an International Women’s Day celebration held at Our Lady of the Rosary School in Dona Paula.
The programme was organised by the GFDC training centre in Dona Paula and brought together students, coaches, school authorities and sports officials. Among those present were GFDC chairman Glenn Ticlo and member secretary Fransquinha Oliveira, who interacted with the young trainees and highlighted the importance of promoting equal opportunities in sports.
Addressing the gathering, Ticlo said women today are making remarkable progress across many fields including education, culture and sports. He noted that since assuming the role of chairman, he aims to strengthen the council’s programmes and expand its impact across the state.
The council currently operates 36 training centres, and Ticlo emphasised the need for better infrastructure and coaching support to ensure that both boys and girls receive quality training. He also acknowledged the support of Pramod Sawant and Ramesh Tawadkar in promoting sports development in Goa.
Member secretary Fransquinha Oliveira said the council remains dedicated to creating more opportunities for girls to learn and grow through football. She praised the enthusiasm shown by the young trainees at the Dona Paula centre, where 33 girls are currently undergoing training.
Oliveira encouraged the players to continue pursuing their passion and to believe in their abilities. She noted that football not only builds sporting skills but also helps develop teamwork, confidence and resilience that benefit young players in all aspects of life.
She also highlighted the achievements of the Dona Paula centre, which has produced several state level players and has won the GFDC inter centre tournament three times. The centre has once again reached the semi finals of the competition this year.
Oliveira commended the efforts of coaches Leena and centre head Carol Gomes for guiding the trainees and providing a pathway for girls to progress in the sport. She also thanked parents for their continued support, describing their encouragement as an essential factor in nurturing young football talent.
