Meet the Mentor — Michel Castanha of GFDC Navelim

The coach behind one of GFDC's most active South-Goa centres — an India international turned mentor.

Michel Castanha has served as a football coach with the Goa Football Development Council since 2013, accumulating more than a dozen years of coaching expertise at the Navelim Centre. With a background as both an India international player and professional athlete, she holds an AFC B License and currently instructs youth in the U-10, U-12, and U-14 categories.

Encouraging, but rigorous

Her approach to coaching emphasises constructing an encouraging but rigorous atmosphere. Players develop technical abilities alongside personal qualities, with emphasis on continuous improvement both in athletics and life. Drawing from her dual experience as competitor and mentor, Michel remains committed to fostering young talent during their formative years — establishing positive habits, mental resilience, and authentic passion for football.

The aspect of coaching she finds most fulfilling involves witnessing her players progress and thrive, whether advancing to state representation, national competition, or excelling in club environments. She takes particular pride in guiding her team to victory in the U-19 Futsal State Championship.

Beyond the pitch, Michel appreciates music and dance, and admires professional players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Sunil Chhetri.

Love football deeply, because when you truly love something, you enjoy every step of achieving in it.