by Fr Chris Ferreira for BIS Mumbai

The Annual Sports Meet of Don Bosco High School, Makarpura, for the Pre-Primary Section was held with grandeur on December 11, 2024. This year’s event, spanning across the Playway and Kindergarten sections, proved to be a spectacular display of youthful energy, teamwork, and the school’s commitment to holistic education. The program brought together students, parents, and staff in a celebration of sportsmanship and camaraderie. The day began with a warm welcome to all attendees by comperes, Sara Kakara and Aaron Mathew for the Playway section, and Alina Barla and Darsh Pathak for the Kindergarten section.

The Chief Guest for the Playway section was Mrs Mita Bhatt, a retired teacher who served the school with dedication for 18 years. Her presence was a nostalgic reminder of the school’s rich legacy. For the Kindergarten section, Fr Baptist Monteiro sdb – the Rector of Don Bosco Snehalaya, Vishwamitri - a Salesian priest and social worker, graced the occasion. His inspiring contributions to child welfare added a profound message to the event. Both Chief Guests were welcomed with saplings, a thoughtful gesture symbolizing growth and sustainability. The event officially began with the lighting of the torch - a powerful symbol of unity and determination. This was followed by the flag hoisting by the young flag bearers from various classes, the Sportsman’s Prayer, and the Playway Anthem. The torch relay and the vibrant Zumba performance by the kindergarteners energized the crowd and set the stage for the main events.

The gymnastic demonstrations were a highlight, showcasing the agility and strength of the students. Activities like the “Jump Over the Box,” “Camel Walk at a Height,” and “Human Pyramid” were met with loud cheers and applause from the audience. These displays reflected the school’s emphasis on physical fitness and teamwork as integral to early education. The main attraction of the day was the series of creative and engaging races designed for each age group. Students from Nursery to Senior Kindergarten participated in events like the “Duck Dash and Pyramid Challenge,” “Master Chef Race,” and “Hawaiian Race.” Each race brought unique challenges, from navigating obstacles to balancing props. The audience, especially parents, eagerly cheered on the young athletes, creating a lively and supportive atmosphere. Particularly noteworthy were the “Tricks with Racket Race” for Standard 1 students and the “Get Ready for School Race” for Standard 2, where students showcased remarkable coordination and determination. The inter-house tug-of-war event added a competitive edge to the festivities, culminating in a thrilling finale where the Green House triumphed over Yellow House.

Addressing the gathering, Mrs Mita Bhatt and Fr Baptist Monteiro lauded the efforts of the students and staff in organizing such a memorable event. They highlighted the importance of instilling sportsmanship and resilience in young minds and commended the school’s initiative in nurturing these values through sports. As the event drew to a close, the comperes expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to the day’s success. Special thanks were extended to the school management, teachers, support staff, and parents for their unwavering support and enthusiasm. The National Anthem marked the end of the event, leaving everyone with a sense of pride and accomplishment. The Annual Sports Meet 2024-25 was not just a celebration of athletic skills but a testament to the school’s holistic approach to education; it will undoubtedly inspire students to strive for excellence in all spheres of life, embodying the true spirit of Don Bosco High School.