NT Reporter
Guirim
A tragic incident cast a shadow over the local sporting community on Thursday morning after a schoolgirl from Guirim lost her life following an on-field accident during hockey practice.
The incident occurred on the final day of practice at the school ground, where the student was struck behind the neck by a hockey ball. She collapsed immediately and was rushed to the District Hospital in Mapusa, but despite medical efforts, later succumbed to her injuries.
Reacting to the incident, Abhay Bhamaikar, president of Goans Hockey, described the sequence of events and the broader impact.
“It is very unfortunate that while playing, the player collapsed. They had to wait for medical help and were eventually taken to the hospital in a personal vehicle,” he said.
“This happened during a practice match session, which is a routine part of the game, especially on the last day of camp,” he added.
Calling it an unprecedented moment for the sport in the state, he noted, “This is the first such incident in Goa, and it is a great loss.”
Highlighting the personal dimension of the tragedy, he said, “Her brother was the captain of our sub-junior team, so for the family also, it is a great loss.”
He also indicated administrative steps going forward: “I will call for the executive committee meeting, and henceforth for any tournament, it will be compulsory to have medical help available.”
“I hope we come out of this, and I pray for the family. It is a very big loss,” he added.
Ajay Gaude, Executive Director of the Sports Authority of Goa (SAG), termed it a significant loss to the sporting fraternity.
“What happened today is very unfortunate. It is a big loss to the sports fraternity. A young athlete has lost her life, and it is very sad,” he said.
He stressed the importance of preparedness in sport, adding, “In sports, we must be equipped with proper medical facilities. Quick medical aid, physios, and doctors on the ground are of utmost importance.”
Calling it a moment of reflection, he further noted, “This incident is a lesson for all of us. Even if it did not happen under SAG, we need to ensure better safety and medical preparedness in sports.”
Former Goa hockey captain Manjita Vas expressed her grief at the rare and shocking nature of the incident.
“It is sad that after so many years of playing, we have never witnessed such a tragic incident. It is deeply saddening, and a sudden shock to our entire fraternity,” she stated.
