The two-day National Seminar PLAY SMART 2026, organized by M.E.S. Vasant Joshi College of Arts and Commerce, Zuarinagar and St. Joseph Vaz College, Cortalim in collaboration with the Directorate of Higher Education, Porvorim and the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, Campal, concluded successfully.

INAUGURAL CEREMONY
The seminar commenced on 27th February with Dr. Ajay Gaude, Director of Sports and Youth Affairs, as Chief Guest and Dr. Anil Dinge, Consultant DHE & In-charge DISHTAVO, as Guest of Honour. Dignitaries included Ms. Lalita P. Joshi (Vice Chairman, M.E.S.), Dr. Manasvi M. Kamat(Principal, M.E.S. Vasant Joshi College), and Ms. Viona Correia (Officiating Principal, St. Joseph Vaz College).

Dr. Gaude appreciated the collaborative efforts of both colleges and encouraged more academic initiatives for sports development. Dr. Dinge highlighted the evolving role of Physical Education professionals in integrating theory with practice. Ms. Joshi pledged continued support for future projects, while Dr. Kamat urged participants to implement their learnings. Ms. Correia emphasized how sports shapes lives. Mr. Gauresh Kamat introduced the Guests. The Vote of Thanks was proposed by Dr. Savio Fernandes.

TECHNICAL SESSIONS
Eleven expert-led sessions combined theory with hands-on practical demonstrations using athletes from both colleges and full equipment:

Day 1 (27th February):

• Athletics: Mr. Harshal Nikam (IAAF Level II Coach) demonstrated endurance development and throwing/jumping drills.
• Kabaddi: Dr. Shraddha Naik (HoD, CACPE) presented on “Mind & Muscle: The Science of Raid & Defence” with live demonstrations.
• Warm-Up & Cool-Down: Mr. Manish Malik (Sporting Clube de Goa) and Dr. Pooja
• Kholkar (Physiotherapist) conducted practical sessions on modern protocols.
• Handball: Dr. Suhas Jadhav (National-level Coach) demonstrated goalkeeper training and various handball strategies.

Day 2 (28th February):

• Volleyball: Dr. Govind Kadam (FIVB Level II Coach) spoke on “Professionalism in Technical and Tactical Training” with examples.
• Cricket: Mr. Robin Dsouza (Former Ranji Trophy Captain) covered T20 era coaching with batting and bowling demonstrations and also answered questions from the participants.
• Hockey: Mr. Edgar Mascarenhas (FIH Level III Coach & former Indian goalkeeper) demonstrated various techniques and strategies.
• Strength & Conditioning: Mr. Manish Malik and Dr. Pooja Kholkar returned for advanced strength and conditioning protocols.
• Football: Mr. Gavin Araujo (AFC ‘Pro’ Licence Coach & Technical Director, SESA Academy) conducted a masterclass on tactics, talent, and technology.

VALEDICTORY CEREMONY
The valedictory session on 28th February was graced by Dronacharya Awardee Mr. Armando Colaço, former Indian football team coach, as Chief Guest. Mr. Balachandra Jadar was Guest of Honour and Mr. Siddesh Kesarkar, Assistant Director (Academic) DHE, was special invitee. Mr. Colaço emphasized lifelong learning and collaboration for sports development. Mr. Jadar stressed the need for school and college professionals to unite for better outcomes. Mr. Kesarkar encouraged availing DHE schemes for future events.

A special felicitation honoured Mr. Armando Colaço for his contribution to Indian football. Mr. Infancio Correia presented the seminar report, and Dr. Elroy Pinto proposed the Vote of Thanks.