Panaji, 6 December: Ahead of the upcoming Zilla Panchayat elections, the Aam Aadmi Party today released its fifth list of candidates. While announcing this list, the party reiterated its commitment to breaking traditional political patterns and providing opportunities to candidates from all sections of society. Earlier lists had already showcased the party’s focus on promoting women’s leadership. With the fifth list, AAP has now given space to individuals of varied talents and expertise—including a leading Goan football player and coach, Jeromina Colaco, who has been fielded as an official candidate from Raia. In this election, AAP has taken a significant step by ensuring that young, educated, and talented women get representation.
Who is Jeromina?
Jeromina Colaco was born in Barebhat, Arlem, where she spent her childhood. Football was a natural part of her daily life from an early age. She was drawn to the sport not only because of her passion, but also because it is a team game that brings children together and nurtures sportsmanship. Over time, football became an inseparable part of young Jeromina’s life.
Jeromina completed her primary schooling at Fatima Convent High School in her village and pursued her higher secondary education at Rosary Higher Secondary, Navelim. Alongside football, she also completed her B.Com. from Rosary College. Even during her college years, the football field was where she learned discipline, teamwork, and leadership.
Her deep connection with the sport eventually led her into coaching. Jeromina has represented Goa in under-14 and senior categories and is presently training local footballers. She has consistently helped young players develop their skills, boost their confidence, and grow as athletes. She is now focusing on creating better sports infrastructure for youth in her locality. Her dream is to provide talented children from smaller villages with proper coaching, good facilities, and opportunities to compete at state and national levels.
Jeromina hopes to inspire Goan youth to dream big and believes they must receive the right support to achieve those dreams. As a dedicated coach and social worker, her vision is that every child—regardless of economic background—should have the chance to excel in football and other sports and realise their potential. She believes Goa deserves the opportunity to shine not just at the state level but also at national and international platforms.
With this mission, Jeromina has stepped beyond the football field and entered the political arena to push for better administrative systems and sports development. She chose the Aam Aadmi Party because she feels its ideology is clear and aligned with her values—a party where social service comes first, and politics comes later.
