In response to feedback from the GFDC Football Summit 2024, FC Goa is taking significant steps to strengthen its ties with the Goan football community. The club, which represents Goa in the Indian Super League (ISL), has seen a decline in attendance this season, prompting CEO Ravi Puskur to reassess the club’s community engagement strategies.
To address this issue, FC Goa has announced a series of initiatives aimed at making football more accessible to the younger generation. As an immediate measure, they have slashed ticket prices for two lower stands to a nominal ₹49. However, the club’s newest project focuses on fostering a deeper connection between football and local students.
“At FC Goa, football isn’t just a game; it’s a way to bring people together,” Puskur stated. “We are committed to making the sport accessible to all, whether that’s through lowering ticket prices or introducing football programs in schools across the state. We believe in creating opportunities for young Goans to fall in love with the game.”
Puskur further emphasized the club’s responsibility to nurture the sport’s future, calling this initiative a reflection of their commitment to inspiring the next generation of footballers.
The project launched with a visit to Loyola High School in Margao, where FC Goa first-team players Rowllin Borges and Brison Fernandes engaged with students. This visit marks the start of a long-term engagement plan that aims to connect with 25 schools by the end of the season and expand to 150 schools over the next three seasons.
During the visit, Borges and Fernandes participated in various activities, shared their personal football journeys, and motivated students to pursue their dreams in sports. “Seeing their enthusiasm for football reminds me of why I fell in love with the game in the first place,” Borges reflected. Fernandes added, “It’s amazing to see how football can bring people together. I hope we can inspire more kids to take up the sport.”
The school’s principal, Fr. Simon De Melo, highlighted the vital role of sports in holistic education. “Football is not just a game; it is a tool for character building, teamwork, and leadership,” he noted.
With these initiatives, FC Goa not only works to bolster attendance but also commits to developing a sustainable football culture within the community, ensuring that the sport remains a vital part of Goan life.
