Goa: The spirit of youth, faith and sporting excellence came alive in Goa as the Diocesan Youth Centre (DYC), Goa, successfully hosted the annual Archbishop’s Trophy 2026, an 11-a-side All Goa Parish Youth Football Tournament, on January 26 at the Navelim Parish ground. The much-anticipated event brought together young footballers from across the state, turning the day into a vibrant celebration of unity, discipline and youthful energy.
After months of intense competition at the grassroots level, 18 deaneries qualified for the state-level tournament, representing the best teams emerging from 114 parishes across Goa. In addition to the boys’ championship, 5-a-side girls’ teams from each deanery took part in tie-breaker matches, ensuring inclusive participation and highlighting the growing presence of women in football.
The tournament began with a thoughtfully planned inaugural ceremony that blended sport with spirituality. Setting a reflective tone for the day, the ceremony drew inspiration from St Carlo Acutis, focusing on his deep faith and love for football. Parish team captains proudly marched in carrying their respective youth flags alongside their deanery flags, while the DYC flag was borne by Fr Blaise, symbolizing unity under one diocesan banner.
The tournament was officially declared open by the Guests of Honour, Mr Aaren D’silva, professional footballer with FC Goa, and Miss Velanie Fernandes, a prominent player in Indian women’s football. Addressing the young athletes, Mr D’silva shared his personal journey and spoke about the guiding strength he draws from the biblical verse Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” encouraging the youth to rely on faith, perseverance and hard work both on and off the field.
The event received wholehearted support from the clergy, with several priests present to motivate and encourage the participants. Among them were Fr Gabriel Coutinho, Fr Clive Dias, Fr Mario Costa, Fr Leslie Rego and Fr Jason Travasso, whose presence underscored the Church’s commitment to holistic youth formation.
Deanery Priest Youth Animators (DPYAs) played a key role throughout the tournament. Fr Jovial (DPYA Raia) coordinated and guided the overall proceedings, while Fr Baltazar (DPYA Canacona) and Fr Leslie (DPYA Old Goa) actively supported and inspired their respective teams, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and fair play.
The girls’ final witnessed a spirited contest, with Chinchinim Deanery (Chinchinim Parish) emerging champions after defeating Pernem Deanery (Arambol Parish) in a closely fought match.
The boys’ final provided an electrifying conclusion to the tournament, as Margao Deanery (Fatorda Parish) lifted the prestigious Archbishop’s Trophy after a decisive victory over Mapusa Deanery (Mapusa Parish), drawing cheers from supporters and participants alike.
The evening prize distribution ceremony was graced by Mathew Colaco, Premier League Kicks Coach with Watford Football Club, and Macan Pereira, Head Coach of Dempo Sports Club’s U-16 team. The guests presented trophies to the winners and runners-up in both the boys’ and girls’ categories, applauding the discipline, dedication and sportsmanship displayed throughout the day.
Individual brilliance was also recognised, with Joel (Mapusa Deanery, Mapusa Parish) named Best Goalkeeper, Jeff (Margao Deanery, Fatorda Parish) receiving the Best Defender award, and Milder (Margao Deanery, Fatorda Parish) honoured as Best Striker.
Beyond the goals and trophies, the Archbishop’s Trophy 2026 stood out as a powerful platform for youth empowerment, friendship and faith-based formation. Through sport, prayer and shared experiences, the tournament reinforced the DYC Goa’s vision of nurturing young people who are confident, disciplined and rooted in Christian values on the football field and in life.