Tuason, Goma to meet on Godfather scheme

Philippine Sports Commission chairman Carlos Tuason and Presidential Adviser on Youth and Sports Richard Gomez finally get the chance to discuss the latter's Godfather program when they meet tomorrow.

Tuason, who arrived yesterday from a week-long stay in the US, said Gomez requested for the meeting to brief the PSC chief on the latter's Godfather program, which was approved by Malacanang last May 3.

"It is very important that we meet because the President's memorandum clearly stated that he (Gomez) should closely coordinate with the PSC," said Tuason.

The Godfather scheme is designed to help various NSAs (national sports associations), particularly those gearing up for this year's Sydney Olympic Games and the 2001 SEAG in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Incidentally, the PSC's Athletes Assistance Program (Atleta) will be launched tentatively on May 29 with a grand pledging session in Malacañang. The project covers only 16 "elite-based" sports targetting the 2002 Asian Games in Pusan and the 2004 Athens Olympics.

Tuason, meanwhile, said US-based agent Bobby Rius, a noted scout for various PBA teams, had promised to help recruit fresh amateur talents in the US.

"He promised to do the scouting for the PSC for free," said Tuason. "Our main goal is to tap new talents from swimming, athletics and shooting."