The Christian Sports Association, Mangalore organizes Third edition of badminton tournament
Mangaluru: The 3rd edition of the badminton tournament organised by Christian Sports Association Mangalore has successfully concluded at Fr. Muller Indoor Stadium on Sunday, December 3, 2023. The tournament was specially staged for all Christian community players from Mangalore and Udupi dioceses.
The Christian Sports Association came into existence with a clear objective: to bring awareness of sports activities among the community sports lovers and to provide them with an opportunity to exhibit their sports talents in competitions and tournaments. The intention is to promote all popular games like football, volleyball, cricket, etc. These days, badminton being the most followed game by many children and youngsters in the region, many academies and indoor courts have come to boost their interests. CSA too is supporting the Badminton enthusiasts by staging three tournaments in the last four years since its inception in the year 2019.
On the 3rd edition, there were altogether 124 teams registered in the different age categories that participated in the event. For children under the 13 and 17 age categories (boys and girls), there was a singles match, and it was pleasing to see a lot of children & teens compete and exhibit their skills. The doubles matches were planned for men & women above 17 years of age in different categories, and there was a good response.
It was a badminton feast altogether, and the players and badminton lovers truly enjoyed the game throughout the day.
Inaugural Ceremony: The inaugural ceremony was held at 10 a.m., though the matches commenced early in the day. Rev. Fr Ajith Menezes, Administrator, Fr Muller Medical College, presided over the function. Mr. Pradeep D’ Souza , Joint Director, Planning & Statistics Dept. Govt. of Karnataka, Mr. Nikhil D. Silva – General Manager -Bon Masala & Food Products, Mr. Everest Pinto – renowned Volley Ball Player & Coach were the chief guests.
Mr. John Pais, the President of CSA, welcomed the guests and the gathering. The guests formally inaugurated the tournament by lighting the lamp. Mr. Pradeep’D’Souza, in his message, hailed the efforts of CSA and wished all the very best to all players. Fr. Ajith Menezes, in his presidential address, promised their support and congratulated CSA for organizing badminton tournaments and other sports competitions for Christian community participants. He urged all the youth to take an interest in sports to keep themselves active and healthy all the time.
Later, all the dignitaries played on the court and inaugurated the game.
Valedictory Ceremony: The valedictory ceremony took place at 5.30 p.m. Mr. Ivan Pinto, Sports Promoter & Sports Enthusiast, Ms. Lizzy Pinto, Secretary, Community Empowerment Trust Mangalore, Mr. Pradeep’D’Souza; Ms. Trivia Veigas; Ms. P. V. Sharada; and Mr. Sai Karthik Reddy were present as guests of honor.
Later, the prizes were distributed to the winners—1st and 2nd place—by all the eminent dignitaries on the stage. The prizes consisted of an attractive trophy and a cash prize.
Breakfast, lunch, and evening tea and snacks were served to all the players and visitors. The food was prepared and served by Patrao Caterers in Mangalore.
Melvin Peres, treasurer of CSA, compered the inaugural and valedictory ceremonies. It has been appreciated the hard work put in by the secretary of CSA, Mr. Lawrance Crasta, the tournament convenor, Mr. Arun Baptist, the all-time support by Mr. Agnel, and the selfless service of the chief referee and match referees. The sponsors and benefactors were remembered and thanked during the program. The programme concluded with the singing of the National Anthem.
