Navelim: In a moment of pride and inspiration for Goan sports, the Goa Basketball Association (GBA), in collaboration with Panjim Basketeers, honoured two remarkable individuals — Ms. Pratima Dhond and Mr. Jeshua Antonio Dos Remedios Pinto — for their outstanding contributions to basketball and public service. The felicitation took place during the grand finale of the State Junior Basketball Championships 2025 at the Manohar Parrikar Indoor Stadium, Navelim.
Pratima Dhond, a former national-level basketball player and the first woman President of the Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), was conferred with the GBA Achievement Award. The honour recognised her exemplary sporting achievements, decades of dedicated service to public life, and ongoing advocacy for women’s empowerment in Goa.
Meanwhile, Jeshua Pinto was celebrated for scripting history by becoming the first Goan basketball player to be selected for the FISU World University Games in Germany, where he represented Team India. His landmark achievement marked a significant milestone for Goan basketball on the international stage.
In her address, Pratima Dhond encouraged the budding athletes, stating, “Take up a sport, work hard, dream big — and one day, you will achieve your goals. Sports will teach you lessons that last a lifetime.” Her words drew wide appreciation from players and attendees alike.
Jeshua Pinto, reflecting on his emotional journey to the international arena, said, “It was a dream to wear the India jersey. Players from Goa can make it too — it takes hours of hard work, dedication, and sacrifice, but the result is always worth it.”
The ceremony was graced by several dignitaries, including GBA President Shane Dias, Vice President Sandeep Heble, and Basketball Federation of India Vice President Fr. Ralin De Souza, who collectively lauded the honourees as inspirations for the state’s youth and shining examples of sporting excellence and commitment.
The recognition of Pratima Dhond and Jeshua Pinto served not only as a celebration of personal milestones but also as a powerful message to young Goans that global success is within reach with persistence, discipline, and passion.
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