By Fr Cedrick Sankul for BISMumbai

Don Bosco School and Junior College, Nashik, organized their Annual Sports Meet on Saturday, 17 December 2022 and on Tuesday, 20 December 2022 to encourage the students to indulge in physical activities and exhibit sportsman-spirit. The theme for the event was 'Sports for Unity'. Dr Aniruddha Dharmadhikari, a reputed Heart Surgeon, President of the Indoor Hockey Federation, Maharashtra, was the Chief Guest for the occasion. After the ceremonial escorting of the Chief Guest to the dais, he was felicitated by the Rector, Fr Royal D'Abreo.

The Sports fest began with a bike rally, followed by the marchpast. Then, the Chief Guest hoisted the flag of the Sports Meet and the school anthem was sung. The students who had won accolades at the State and the District level were invited to ignite the torch, followed by the oath of sportsmanship. The Chief Guest then declared the Meet open. Balloons were released in the sky to mark the occasion.

Fr D'Abreo addressed the students and emphasized on the importance of sports in imbibing the values such as discipline, integrity, perseverance, hard work, and dedication. The first event was by the students of the Primary and Middle School. They displayed energetic performances such as mass drill, lezim and pyramid formations. The Chief Guest Dr Dharmadhikari, addressed the students and praised the management for organizing such a grand sports fest that created a healthy atmosphere for the students. He added that sports inculcate good values such as discipline, endurance, teamwork, and commitment in the students.

The finals of the events such as 100 and 200 meter races, and relay races were held. The students of different houses competed with each other by showcasing their strength and endurance. The tug of war was the highlight of the Annual Sports Day as the students fought for their team's victory using their sheer strength and will power. A surprise event was also organized for the parents.

During the prize distribution ceremony, winners from different categories were felicitated by the Chief Guest and the other dignitaries. Mr Harsh Gujar was awarded the title of the best athlete. The Rua House stood first in 'March Past', while Magone House was the winner of the sports meet. Fr D'Abreo appreciated the efforts taken by the sports faculty and other staff to make the event a success. The supervisor, Ms Sujata Castelino, proposed the vote of thanks. The Sports Fest was concluded by singing the National Anthem.

A parent, Ms Priyanka Bhavsar, applauded the school's efforts and praised the Don Bosco Management for encouraging sports. Students, Ms Swarali Pawar and Ms Aastha Deore, thanked the school management for channelising their energy in right direction by organising such a grand sports meet. Ms Madhuri Dharrao, a teacher of Don Bosco School, acknowledged the sustained efforts put forth by the school Principal and Management for boosting sports culture in Don Bosco, Nashik.