Mount Carmel Central School celebrates a grand day of Sports Excellence

Mangaluru: Mount Carmel Central School, Mangaluru, kicked off its much-anticipated Annual Sports Meet for the students of grades V to XII for the year 2023–24 on Saturday, October 28, 2023, at Mangala Stadium.

The event began with a warm welcome to the audience and the esteemed guest, Mr Arthur DSouza, a former National Champion and International weightlifter. The School band led by Samarth Madhukar Nayak of grade X welcomed the Chief Guest with vibrant music, accompanied by Joint Secretary Sr Asha Preema, Principal Sr Melissa, Vice Principal Sr Teena and PTA Vice President Ms Carol Pais.

The ceremony commenced with the hoisting of the school flag by the Chief Guest, signifying the official start of the event. This was followed by a spectacular march past by the students, showcasing their synchronized movements and exemplifying the values of unity, consistency, alertness, and teamwork. The Chief Guest received the salute from the marching teams. The students in five houses—Daffodils, Bluebells, Orchids, Anthuriums, and Tulips—in four categories—senior secondary, secondary, intermediate, and juniors—delivered their exuberance and team spirit with coordinated marches, and it was indeed a true feast for the eyes and ears.

Principal Sr Melissa led the Chief Guest and other dignitaries to the dais, and the event continued with a prayer song led by the school choir, followed by a captivating welcome dance performed by the school’s talented dancers. A cordial welcome was accorded by Principal Sr Melissa, setting the tone for the day’s festivities. The highlight of the event was the arrival of the symbolic flame, representing the light of spirit, knowledge, and life. The torchbearers were outstanding young athletes who had excelled in various sports disciplines, from karate and table tennis to basketball and athletics. The Chief Guest, Mr Arthur D Souza, received the torch, which was then placed in a prominent spot in the stadium to continue burning throughout the sports meet.

The oath was administered by the school sports minister, Mythili Nayak Manel, reinforcing the values of fair play and sportsmanship. A spirit-filled performance by grade X students, combining yoga, aerobics, and Zumba, showcased the importance of exercise for a fit body and sound mind.

The Chief Guest declared the Sports Meet open by releasing the five colored balloons representing five houses, marking the official commencement of the day’s athletic events. Winners of various team games were honoured, celebrating their achievements. The chief guest, Mr Arthur DSouza, in his address, appreciated the well-coordinated program and the synchronised march past. He motivated the students to choose sports as a career by availing of different government schemes and wishing good luck to the young athletes of the day. Tr Leena Jose compeered the inaugural ceremony, and Tr Sylvia proposed the vote of thanks, marking the end of the formal inaugural program.

The day continued with the students taking part enthusiastically in various field and track events, and the winners were recognised with medals and certificates.

In the awe-inspiring culmination of an action-packed day filled with talent and sportsmanship, the Annual Sports Day of the School witnessed a grand valedictory ceremony compeered by Tr Anisha DSouza. The event showcased the determination and teamwork of the students, who exemplified the true spirit of sports. Mr Bhakshith Salian, the Khelo India Coach for Dakshina Kannada, graced the event as the chief guest. The ceremony began with the school choir providing a touching and soulful rendition, adding a spiritual glow to the event. Sr Teena, the Vice Principal accorded a genial welcome to the esteemed chief guest and the entire gathering.

The highlight of the event was the prize distribution ceremony, where students were recognized for their talents and achievements. As Tr Vidya called out the names, the winners of relay teams, individual championships, and team championships were awarded by the chief guest. Anthuriums bagged the overall championship, while Bluebells were satisfied with the runner-up position. Mr. Bhakshith Salian, a young and dynamic athlete, addressed the audience, emphasizing the role of hard work in achieving success and encouraging budding athletes to strive for excellence. PET Mr Richard delivered the vote of thanks, recognizing the hard work and sportsmanship displayed throughout the day.

As a solemn and symbolic gesture, the school flag, which had been hoisted in the morning, was lowered by the chief guest to the tune of “Abide with Me” and was then honoured by the house captains, who took it a round in the ground and then handed it over to sports secretary Mythili Nayak, who, in turn, presented it to Principal Sr Melissa for safekeeping until the next year.

The ceremony concluded with the singing of the National Anthem, infusing the spirit of patriotism into everyone present. As the dynamic and intense day came to an end, it was acknowledged that every participant, irrespective of victory or defeat, had shown remarkable sportsmanship. The event left a lasting impact, motivating all to strive for excellence, not only in sports but in all aspects of life.