By Tr Sadira Cardozo and Tr Marina Dsilva for BIS Mumbai

The much-awaited Annual Sports Day of St. Joseph’s High School, Wadala, was held on October 16, 2025, from 8:20 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the school turf. The atmosphere was charged with excitement and enthusiasm as students, teachers and parents gathered to celebrate. The gathering was then addressed by Fr Solomon Rapol, Our Principal.

The head boy led the gathering in the sportsmanship prayer, setting the tone for a day of fair play and camaraderie. The event was then officially declared open by our esteemed Chief Guest, marking the beginning of an exciting day of sports and competition.

The Chief Guest, Mr Ricky Couto, was formally introduced by our Rector, Fr James Nigrel. Mr Couto, an alumnus of our institution, holds both the Guinness World Record and the Limca Book of Records for being the youngest cricket umpire.

Following this, the school torch was lit by the national and state-level athletes from the secondary, primary and pre-primary sections, symbolizing sportsmanship, determination, and unity. The students of Grades IX and X led a march past displaying perfect coordination and discipline. The Sportsman’s Oath was administered by the Assistant Head Boy, after which the sports meet was declared open amidst loud cheers and applause.

The morning was filled with vibrant performances that showcased the energy and talent of our students. These included the Primary Drill by Grades I to IV, a “Lezim Display” by Grades VII and VIII, aerobics by Grades V and VI, and a lively Zumba performance by the Pre-Primary section. A highlight of the cultural segment was the Eco Club’s street play and song titled ‘The Glacier’s Guardian,’ which delivered a powerful message on environmental conservation and the importance of saving glaciers.

 After the opening ceremony, the track and field events took centre stage. The audience witnessed the final races of the Pre-Primary, followed by relay events for the Primary and Secondary sections, including the Under-12, Under-14, and Above-14 relay finals.

Excitement reached its peak during the Tug of War in the Above-14 category, which drew thunderous cheers from the crowd. The staff and parents also participated enthusiastically — with the female teachers and parents competing in hockey, and the male teachers and parents engaging in a thrilling game of football.

The closing ceremony began with the march past, followed by the vote of thanks, prize distribution, lowering of the flag, and the extinguishing of the torch, marking the formal conclusion of the day’s events. The celebration ended with the school anthem and the dispersal of students and guests.

Overall, the Annual Sports Day 2025 was a resounding success, showcasing the talent, teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship of our students. A special note of gratitude goes to our Principal, Fr Solomon, for his meticulous planning and guidance, ensuring that every detail of the event was perfectly executed.