Panjim, July 3, 2025: Celebrating the enduring legacy of the late Fr. Benedict Furtado—revered as the Father of Goan Basketball—the All-Goa Fr. Benedict Furtado Basketball Tournament brought together nearly 90 teams across five youth categories over two vibrant weekends, June 21–22 and June 27–29, 2025.
Organized by the Don Bosco Oratory in Panjim, the tournament paid tribute to the Salesian priest who not only built the first basketball court at Don Bosco, Panjim, but also served as the inaugural President of the Goa Basketball Association. His pioneering efforts laid the foundation for the sport’s growth in the state, sparking a basketball culture that thrives to this day.
“Fr. Benedict had an ardent passion for youth and especially the poor,” recalled Rommel D’Souza, a former student. “He would help college students who couldn’t afford fees or books—and invite them for tea and basketball at the Oratory.”
In a first for Goa, the tournament introduced 5-a-side league matches for Under-10 and Under-12 participants, held June 21–22. The Under-14 and Under-16 teams competed in the fast-paced 3×3 format, while the Under-17 category featured 5-a-side matches during the second weekend.
The initiative aimed to nurture fundamental basketball skills and promote a love for the game among young players. “We want to foster a culture where children are supported to grow through sport—emotionally, physically, and socially,” said Br. James Marcus, Director of Don Bosco Oratory, highlighting the tournament’s emphasis on holistic development and parental support.
Participation extended beyond the Oratory, with enthusiastic involvement from local clubs, including the YMCA. The dedicated efforts of coaches and volunteers ensured the tournament’s smooth execution.
Two veteran coaches were specially honoured for their decades-long contribution to youth basketball: Sir Olencio Dias, still actively mentoring emerging players, and Sir Luis Fernandes, a former student of Fr. Furtado and long-time collaborator at the Oratory.
“Fr. Benedict was my Headmaster—a most loving and patient priest,” said Adv. Rui Ferreira, a past pupil. “I was fortunate to learn basketball through his encouragement, after which I became a state player.”
Reflecting on Fr. Furtado’s spiritual and social impact, Fr. Clive Telles, Provincial of the Salesians in Goa, remarked, “He was a friend to the youth. Many who were inspired by his energy and faith went on to become priests themselves.”
“Even in his life-threatening illness, he was peaceful and never grumbled,” remembered Fr. Lionel Braganza. “He led a life of poverty—no excesses, always frugal.”
In keeping with this legacy of inspiration, the Don Bosco Oratory announced plans to institutionalize the tournament as an annual event, encouraging generations of young athletes to carry forward Fr. Furtado’s vision of sport as a catalyst for growth, discipline, and community spirit.
“Fr. Benedict may not be a canonized saint,” said Fr. Albano Fernandes of Don Bosco Quepem, “but I honour him as a saint to imitate and cherish all my life”.