MARGAO
Goa head coach Remy Colaco radiates confidence as he prepares his team for the Senior Women's National Championship for the Rajmata Trophy in Palakkad, Kerala, from October 5 to 9. Goa finds itself in Group A, alongside hosts Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Himachal Pradesh.
Speaking to the Goan Everyday, Colaco described the championship as highly competitive, with each match being closely contested. “You have to stay focused until the final whistle,” he added.
“I am completely sure that Goa will qualify for the semifinals. How soon? We’ll see. I’m here to win as many games as possible,” Colaco stated emphatically.
He acknowledged the formidable competition posed by Kerala and Tamil Nadu, noting, “We are up against well-organized, well-coached teams with some very talented players.” He stressed the importance of keeping his squad humble and focused on their game plan.
Colaco emphasized the depth of his team, particularly their late-game performances. “My girls are talented young players with a positive winning attitude. If they play to their potential, they can beat any team,” he asserted before their departure to Kerala. He expressed confidence in securing a win against Tamil Nadu if they stick to their strengths.
“I’m incredibly enthusiastic about our mix of experience and youth. We’re working diligently behind the scenes to achieve our goals,” he continued. The training camp was overseen by former India assistant coach Mariano Dias and Maymol Rocky, the Women’s National coach. However, Colaco has stepped in for the next five days as Rocky is unavailable due to prior commitments.
Pushpa Parab has been appointed captain of the squad.
The Team: Shaundelle Gomes, Merecia Tavares, Aaroshi Govekar, Ashika Gadekar, Pearl Fernandes, Laura Estibeiro, Saniya Pednekar, Simran Narvekar, Pushpa Parab, Sushmita Jadhav, Alisha Tavares, Fatima Braganza, Vinoshka Fernandes, Swellen Fernandes, Ria Rajesh, Arpita Pednekar, Aniela Barretto, Flani Costa, Jossel Mascarenhas, Tanvi Parulekar, Riya Shailesh Patre, Alicia Suzy Fernandes.
Officials: Remy Colaco (Head Coach), Malvita Mascarenhas (Assistant Coach), Reshma D’Souza (Manager), Dr. Anisha Priolkar (Physio).
