FC Goa strengthen bonds with the Community through football initiatives
FC Goa continue to make strides in connecting with the local community as part of its “Gaurs in the Community” initiative, aimed at fostering a deeper bond between football and the youth of Goa. Over the past month, the Club visited several schools, charitable organizations, and local events, delivering on its promise to bring football closer to the people.
Announced last month as part of the Club’s Community Football Project, FC Goa set an ambitious goal of visiting at least 25 venues by the end of the season. With a series of successful engagements already completed, the Gaurs are well on course to achieving this milestone.
After kicking off the initiative at Loyola High School in Margao last month, recent engagements included visits to:
- Orlim Social Action Team (OSAT) Charitable Trust Football Camp, Orlim
- Sports Day at Podar International School, held at the SAG Athletic Stadium, Bambolim
- The Rosary High School, Bambolim
- Trinity Primary School, Curtorim
- Our Lady of Succour High School, Nagoa
- ‘Bal Mela 2024’ at Big Foot Goa, Loutolim
- 2nd Jack Souza Ferrao Memorial Special Futsal Championship, Camp Souza, CamurlimThese events saw enthusiastic participation from young footballers, students and fans, reinforcing the Gaurs‘ commitment to building a footballing culture in the state.
Adding a special touch to these events, FC Goa players, including Boris Singh, Mohammad Yasir, Udanta Singh, Bob Jackson, Aakash Sangwan, Jay Gupta, Sandesh Jhingan, Dejan Drazic, Odei Onaindia and Ayush Chhetri, participated across the venue. They interacted with the children, shared their journeys, and provided valuable insights into the sport, leaving them inspired and motivated.
Speaking about FC Goa’s visit to the OSAT Charitable Trust Football Camp, Fr. Roger, Chairperson of OSAT, said, “The visit by FC Goa was an unforgettable experience for the children at our camp. It provided them with inspiration and the belief that they too can dream big. The Club’s grassroots efforts are invaluable to the community.”
Alice Joan, Principal of The Rosary High School, shared her thoughts: “Having FC Goa players visit our school was a delightful experience. Their interactions with our students were heartfelt, and the advice they shared was truly inspiring. Initiatives like these leave a lasting impact on young minds.”
Adriel Alvares, Organiser of ‘Bal Mela 2024’, remarked, “The presence of FC Goa players at Bal Mela made the event unforgettable. They connected with the children on a personal level, lit up the atmosphere and brought smiles to so many children. We deeply appreciate their commitment to engaging with the community.”
A spokesperson from FC Goa commented on the progress of the initiative: “When we launched the Community Football Project, we promised to visit at least 25 venues across the state by the end of the season. We’re thrilled to see the enthusiasm and support from the community as we continue this journey. We remain committed to inspiring the next generation and making football an integral part of Goa’s cultural identity.”
The Club aim to build further on this project in the coming months, aiming to make football accessible and enjoyable for everyone.v
