Star players from Sporting Clube de Goa brought along a very special surprise when they paid a community visit to the Margaret Bosco Bal Sadan Orphanage at Bastora recently.

Sporting Clube de Goa recently roped in the highly rated SESA FA trio comprising of defender Ganesh Thakur, midfielder Glan Martins and forward Olvin Cardozo and they were all present for the visit to the orphanage along with Creson Antao and Pratesh Shirodkar.

The young wards from the shelter were excited as they ran to the vehicles to greet the players. After a brief interaction, the boys performed a small exhibition match.

The game ended goalless and moved to penalties, where the Flaming Oranje stars joined in the fun.

Fr Joe Fernandes and Fr Kim Fernandes, who do an admirable job in looking after these happy youngsters, were part of the penalty shootout also.

The day continued with refreshments, before the Sporting Goa stars presented the Goa Pro League Winners trophy to the youngsters whose eyes lit up with delight. “You are all winners,” proclaimed Pratesh, before allowing the children to bask in the glory of lifting the coveted cup, which Sporting Goa had won last season.

“It was a nice feeling to visit these boys,” stated Glan. Team mate Ganesh was equally as excited. “If we can inspire these boys to work hard, it is a positive step,” said Ganesh.

“I joined Sporting Clube de Goa not only for their style of play, but also because the efforts they make to connect with the community in Growing Goa’s Game,” remarked Olvin. “In the past year they have developed an academy, adopted schools, organised grass root tournaments, besides conducting All Goa trials,” added Olvin.

Sporting Clube de Goa CEO Victor Fernandes was also present along with Manager Angelo Albuquerque, General Secretary Edward Noronha and Head of Youth Development Mahesh Lotlikar.

(Report courtesy AIFF Media)