MAPUSA: A vibrant 10-day Summer Football Camp organised by Kick Off Football Schools in collaboration with PACT Foundation concluded on a high note at the A.A. de Moira Ground, Moira, on Sunday, bringing together over 72 young footballers from across the Aldona constituency in a major grassroots sporting initiative.
The camp, which was fully funded and supported by PACT Foundation, was designed for boys and girls between the ages of 6 and 14, ensuring equal access to quality football training irrespective of gender or financial background. Organisers described the initiative as an important step toward strengthening grassroots football and encouraging holistic youth development through sport.
The closing ceremony was attended by several prominent guests including Aldona MLA Adv. Carlos Alvares Ferreira, Dr. Ashwin Fernandes, Founder of PACT Foundation, Caetano Cardozo, Member of A.A. de Moira, Oscar Lobo, President of A.A. de Moira, Andrea Fernandes, Founder of Kick Off Football Schools, and Head Coach Jonas Fernandes.
The organisers highlighted that the initiative aligned with six United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including Good Health and Well-Being, Quality Education, Gender Equality, Reduced Inequalities, Sustainable Communities, and Partnerships for the Goals.
Addressing the participants, Adv. Carlos Alvares Ferreira emphasised the importance of discipline, ambition, and perseverance in both sports and life.
“Whenever you want to score, you need to have a goal in mind. It’s not only about football. To achieve something in life, you must set goals and benchmarks. If you aim high, you push yourself further,” he said, encouraging children to balance academics and sports with equal dedication.
Dr. Ashwin Fernandes inspired the young trainees by recalling the journey of legendary Goan footballer Brahmanand Sankhwalkar, noting how the Arjuna Award-winning goalkeeper began his football journey on humble village grounds.
He also praised the enthusiastic participation of girls in the camp, highlighting that inclusivity remained central to the vision of the initiative.
“At PACT Foundation, we wanted to remove barriers and ensure every child has access to experienced coaches, kits, and the opportunity to grow. Beyond football, this camp is about teamwork, discipline, and life skills that will stay with them long after the final whistle,” he said.
Head Coach Jonas Fernandes stated that the camp focused not just on football skills, but also on confidence building and character development.
“This was not just about training, it was about building confidence, character, and a love for the game. We hope every child here continues to chase their dreams, on and off the field,” he said.
The camp concluded with the felicitation of coaches and the distribution of medals and certificates to all participating children, celebrating both their sporting enthusiasm and personal growth throughout the programme.
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