Panaji: The Goa Football Association will invite applications from eligible players for the constitution and formal formation of the GFA Players Association.GFA said the formation of a players association will provide players with a structured, recognised and formal platform through which to represent their collective interests and contribute to the development of the game in Goa.“Players have always been the most important stakeholders in Goan football and we hope to create the GFA Players Association as soon as possible” GFA president Caitano Fernandes said after the executive committee meeting on Thursday. “We are committed to the growth, development and good governance of football at every level.”GFA said detailed guidelines regarding eligibility criteria, the application process and timelines will be communicated to all stakeholders in due course.Former international and national women’s team coach Maymol Rocky, GFA executive committee members, Sanjiv Nagvenkar and Cosme Oliveira, have been tasked with getting the players on board to facilitate the formation of the association.The executive committee also resolved to implement the new Constitution of the AIFF by Oct 2026.The GFA said it will shortly circulate the draft amended Constitution to all its members before convening a Special General Meeting to adopt the necessary constitutional amendments. The association expects to complete this process by Oct 20, subject to the formation of the players’ body.“We hope to be the first state association in India to amend its Constitution in line with the provisions of the National Sports Governance Act and the AIFF Constitution,” said Caitano.The GFA also resolved to make a formal representation to the Corporation of the City of Panaji, Panaji MLA Atanasio ‘Babush’ Monserrate and chief minister Pramod Sawant regarding the Campal ground.“The Campal ground holds immense historical and sporting significance for football in Goa, and the association is committed to pursuing all necessary avenues to protect and preserve its continued use for the sport and for the footballing community of Goa. The GFA will be engaging with the relevant authorities at the earliest opportunity in this regard,” the GFA said in a statement.“The Campal ground issue has come into focus now. However, as an association, we have been writing to the relevant authorities on this matter since 2023,” said Caitano.
