On the occasion of International Women’s Day celebrated on the 8th ofMarch every year, Goa Football Association organised a day-long Women’sFootball Festival celebrating "Women in Football" at Duler Stadium inMapusa on Sunday, March 8. The programme was organised to recognise, celebrate and promote thedevelopment of women’s football. The programme was held in alignment with the All India FootballFederation’s commitment to the development of the beautiful game among women,and supports the Asian Football Confederation’s celebration of theInternational Women’s Day across Asia on the 8th March2015. Various competitions in football like 6-a-side football matches,tie-breakers, shooting the target, juggling were held and saw enthusiasticparticipation from all the women present. The winners in each category receivedprizes and football souvenirs.
The Goa Football Association honored Smt Vijayadevi Rane, the first everPresident of the Women's Football Association of Goa, Mrs Clara Gonsalves eFernandes, the first ever Secretary of the Women's Football Association of Goaand Mrs. Pearl Viegas for her contribution to promoting the game among women.Mementos and plaques were presented to the dignitaries in appreciation of theircontribution to women's football. Mr Elvis Gomes, President GFA, recounted the glory days of women'sfootball in Goa and reiterated GFA's commitment to developing the game amongwomen. The programme was attended by Mona Walgren, a key member of the Swedishselection that played a series of matches across India against the Indian teamin the late 1970s. Mrs Juliana Gurjao e Colaco, Chairperson, GFA Women'sFootball Sub-Committee along with other members Mr. Victor Gonsalves, Mr.Osvaldo D'Costa and Ms. Vera Pires were present on the occasion. Goa Football Association
