Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: The second edition of the KOFS Cup 2.0, organised by Kick Off Football Schools (KOFS), concluded successfully at the Sunshine School Ground in Old Goa, featuring enthusiastic participation from young footballers across the state. The grassroots tournament aimed at nurturing emerging talent and included competitive matches across four age categories: U8, U10, U12, and U15.
The finals and prize distribution ceremony were attended by Chief Guest Rajesh Faldessai, MLA of Cumbarjua Constituency, and India international footballer Laxmikant Kattimani as Guest of Honour. Renowned coach Mario Aguiar, who served as goalkeeping coach for India’s U-17 team during the FIFA U-17 World Cup, was specially invited, while Kedar Nerurkar, Senior Director of Deccan Fine Chemicals India Pvt. Ltd., represented the Silver Sponsor.
Mario Aguiar praised KOFS for organising a well-structured and competitive grassroots tournament, highlighting its role in providing young players with the right platform to showcase their talent. He congratulated all winning teams and appreciated the overall standard of play. KOFS’ coaching setup, led by Jonas Fernandes, has been instrumental in shaping young footballers through structured grassroots training programmes across Goa.
In the U-8 category, FC Goa FS emerged winners, defeating Ace Soccer Academy, with Aariv Bhatia scoring seven goals and Vishal named Best Defender, while Kion was awarded Best Player. FC Goa FS also won the U-10 category against Salgaocar, with Fayaz Mohammad as Top Goalscorer, Kayden as Best Player, and Noah Sinha as Best Goalkeeper. In the U-12 category, Salgaocar beat Rising Star, with Ruban Salgaocar scoring four goals, Priyanshu named Best Player, and Dwayne Best Goalkeeper. The U-15 title went to The Sports Hustle Goa, who defeated Vintage 73, with Anson scoring five goals, Yash as Best Player, and Swayam as Best Goalkeeper.
Andrea Fernandes, Founder of KOFS, said the tournament was designed not just for winning trophies but also to promote learning, discipline, teamwork, and a love for the game. She thanked coaches, parents, sponsors, officials, and volunteers for their constant support in making KOFS Cup 2.0 a successful event.
