Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: The Goa Football Association (GFA) successfully conducted a series of referee training and development programs aimed at strengthening officiating standards in the state. These initiatives were held at the PJN Stadium, Fatorda, across June, July, and August 2025.
On August 2nd and 3rd, 2025, the GFA organized three key courses — the Referees Refresher Course, the Match Commissioner Course, and the Referee Assessors Course. The Refresher Course, conducted on August 3rd, saw participation from 50 referees, while the Assessors Course on August 2nd had 25 attendees. These sessions were led under the guidance of Mr. Constancio P. Rodrigues, Chairman of the Referees Committee.
In addition to these, GFA had earlier organized a New Entrant Referees Course on June 28th, 29th, and July 5th, inducting 24 new referees into its fold. A Referee Upgradation Course followed on July 6th, in which 28 referees applied to advance to higher categories based on their performance and qualifications.
The events witnessed the presence of key dignitaries including the President of GFA, who addressed the referees with words of encouragement. Also present were Mr. Anthony Pango, Vice President of GFA (South), Mr. Constancio P. Rodrigues, Mr. Anthony J. D’Costa, Referee Assessors Manager of AIFF, and Mr. Melwin D’Costa, Head of Referees at GFA.
GFA officials highlighted the importance of continuous education and evaluation of match officials in maintaining the integrity and professionalism of the game. Mr. Rodrigues emphasized that such programs form the backbone of football development in the state and expressed satisfaction with the commitment shown by participants across all levels.
