Guwahati: Acclaimed Assamese footballer Gilbert Sangma passed away on Saturday at his residence in Guwahati’s Kahilipara area, leaving the state’s sports fraternity in deep mourning. He was 71.Widely regarded as one of the most dedicated and influential footballers to have emerged from Assam, Sangma earned admiration for his skill, discipline, and contribution to the game.On Saturday, CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, taking to Facebook, said, “I am deeply saddened to hear the news of the passing of Gilbertson Sangma, who emerged as a sensation in Assam football during the 1980s-90s. The legendary player, who mesmerized football lovers with the magic of his feet, brought recognition to Assam football across the entire country. Known as the ‘Prince of Assam Football’ and ‘Assam Saurav’, his demise is an irreparable loss to the sports world as well as to the social life of Assam. The people of Assam will always remember his immense contributions with respect and gratitude. I pray for eternal peace for the departed soul of this great star and extend my deepest condolences to the bereaved family. Om Shanti.”He was born on April 12, 1955, in Dibrugarh district. He received his early football lessons in the police reserve before representing Golaghat in the senior inter-district soccer championships in 1973.An opportunistic striker, Sangma was selected for the Assam team in the Santosh Trophy, where he represented the state from 1973 to 1980.According to the Assam Olympic Association, he also donned the Indian team colours in three international matches during tours of Indonesia and Thailand in 1975. He became a household name during the 1970s and ’80s with his stellar performances, which helped his team, Assam Police, win several major competitions, including the Bordoloi Trophy. His speed, ball control, and presence of mind made him a star at a very early stage of his career. He received the Lachit Award in 1979.
