This year, there are enrolments from over a dozen local schools including Regina Mundi, St. Andrew’s, Bharti Vidya Bhavan, Kendriya Vidyalaya, St. Joseph’s, Vidya Mandir and Keshav Smruti. This is the only Club sponsored and organised program in all of Goa where children can train under the Club’s highly qualified and experienced coaches and first team players. Basic football skills are imparted to these budding footballers with a focus on teamwork and fitness. The most talented boys will find their way into the Club’s renowned youth development system, one of the best in India.
Speaking on the occasion, Salgaocar FC president Shivanand Salgaocar, said “This year is even more special for us at Salgaocar FC. Not only did our Club turn 60, but this is also the birth centenary year of our founder, my father, the late Mr. V.M. Salgaocar and I am sure that nothing would have given him greater pleasure than to see all the people of his hometown gathered here today to take part in his favourite sport. Giving back to Goa and promoting local talent were extremely important to him and we are proud to continue that tradition even today.”
Swati Salgaocar (Vice President – Youth Development, Salgaocar FC) stressed the importance of grassroots development, the most effective way of training local talent to compete on an international platform. She also thanked the children and their parents for their continuous support since the program’s inception.
Also present on the occasion were Adlear D’Cruz (General Secretary, Salgaocar FC), Norbert Gonsalves (Head Coach, Salgaocar FC) and all of the club’s first team and junior team coaches and players.