The platform of GIFT can be used to evaluate our progress – Shrinivas Dempo

One of the key panelists on day one of GIFT (Goa International Football Table) 2014 was Dempo chairman Shrinivas Dempo and the AIFF vice president was full of praise for the event.

“The best part about GIFT is that it is becoming an annual event and can be used as a platform to evaluate our progress with the help of various invitees. GFDC has started creating a football culture by creating awareness and inclusive development. It is also very important to first develop the sport and then monetize it,” Mr Dempo was quoted saying.

The Dempo chief also talked about the current state of Indian football and explained how Bengaluru FC can act as an example.

“It is impossible to run a club as the costs are high. The only thing keeping the clubs running is passion. Goan football needs to get rid of the legacy of providing freebies and start afresh. The perfect case study would be Bengaluru FC who has close to 8000 supporters for every home match and each of them buys tickets,” he said.

Speaking further about Goan football, the GFA (Goa Football Association) president stated, “Goa has a number of local players already playing in the I-League, hence the state team is deprived of such talent at tournaments such as the Santosh Trophy. The GFA has already discussed the possibility of putting in place a structure that will enable us to have a state team throughout the year as well as at ground work for restarting a football league for girls.”