By Jessie Lobo and Alphonsa Ohol for BIS Mumbai

“On the field, we don’t just play, we grow stronger.”

The Annual Sports Day of Don Bosco Junior College, Yerwada, Pune for the academic year 2025–26 was celebrated with great enthusiasm and splendour on November 28, 2025. The campus was filled with excitement as students, teachers and parents gathered to witness the grand event. The Chief Guest for the occasion was Dr Shobha Bhagat. She is a highly qualified and celebrated sports personality who has made Maharashtra and India proud. A National Kabaddi player (1987–1995), she twice captained both the Maharashtra State team and the university team.

The programme began at 9 a.m. with the escort team ceremoniously welcoming and accompanying the dignitaries onto the stage. The Head Girl, Miss Gloria D’Souza, led everyone in a solemn prayer, marking an auspicious start to the day.

This was followed by an impressive March Past, with each house marching in perfect coordination under the leadership of the College Captains, Master Rohan Choudhary and Miss Mansi Shinde. The Sports Flag was then hoisted by the Chief Guest, after which the symbolic Torch Lighting Ceremony took place.

The Oath, pledging sportsmanship and fair play, was administered by the College Sports Secretary, Miss Trishala Pandey. The Chief Guest then officially declared the Sports Meet open with an inspiring address to all participants.

The sporting events began soon after, with students putting forth their best efforts in various competitions. Points were awarded house-wise and the atmosphere was filled with healthy rivalry and encouragement. Throughout the events, the Blue House maintained a strong lead.

At the end of the competitions, winners were felicitated with certificates and medals. The Blue House proudly lifted the Championship Trophy, having secured the highest points. The Yellow House secured the Second Position, receiving a smaller trophy in recognition of their commendable performance.

In addition to the house awards, Individual Championships were presented to outstanding boys and girls from Std. XI and Std. XII. Group photographs were taken to capture the joyful moments.

The day concluded with the lowering of the Sports Flag by the sports teachers, the Sports Captain, the Head Boy, and the Head Girl. Fr Principal Glen Fernandes officially declared the Sports Meet closed. This was followed by the singing of the National Anthem.

The entire event was efficiently coordinated by Sir Leo, the Supervisor of Junior College along with Sports Teachers, Sir Rajesh and Tr Bharti. It was indeed a memorable, well-organized, and enjoyable event, reflecting the spirit of teamwork, discipline and sportsmanship. All the teaching, non-teaching staff and students gave their best to make this day a grand success.

“I loved taking part in the tug of war. Even though our team didn’t win, it was so much fun and I learnt how important teamwork is.” said a Std XI student.

"The March Past was my favourite part. Marching with my house made me feel proud and confident.” — Sanjana, said a Std XII student.

Overall, it was a successful day.