Alberto Colaco
The tragic death of Dailon Carvalho, a young player from Youth Club of Ambaulim, during an inter-village football tournament organized by Sporting Club of Cana-Benaulim has saddened not only the Goan football community but also people across Goa.
Whenever such a tragedy happens, many people blame the tournament organizers, the Goa Football Association (GFA), the Health Services, and even the tournament sponsors. Most of these reactions on social media come from people who are shocked and emotional.
However, we must also look at the practical challenges. Every year, more than 3,000 football matches are played in Goa, including GFA competitions, inter-village tournaments, school matches, and other events. It is very difficult for the GFA and tournament organizers to provide an ambulance and full medical support at every single match.
Even so, this tragedy reminds us that we must do everything possible to reduce the chances of such incidents happening again. The following steps could help improve player safety:
1. Medical check-ups for all registered players
Every registered football player should have a complete medical examination at least once every three years. Many small clubs may not be able to afford these tests, so the Government of Goa could help by directing district and government hospitals to provide them. Although this would require significant effort, it is an important step.
The GFA should also make it compulsory for every player to submit a valid medical fitness certificate before being registered to play.
2. First aid and emergency response training
During a FIFA Futuro course for football administrators, one session focused on first aid and how to respond quickly to injuries on the field. A member of FIFA’s medical committee explained that referees, coaches, team officials, and even players should know basic first aid because they are usually the first people to reach an injured player.
The GFA should organize first aid and emergency response training at different centres across Goa before the football season begins.
3. Basic medical equipment at football grounds
Many football grounds are regularly used for GFA competitions. These venues should have basic medical equipment and first aid facilities available at all times.
Putting these suggestions into practice may not be easy, but they are necessary. By working together, the Government, the GFA, clubs, and tournament organizers can make football safer for every player and help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The writer is a former secretary of GFA and AIFF.
