By Dorothy Fernandes for BIS Mumbai

Students of Don Bosco High School and Junior College, Naigaon East, brought laurels to the school through their outstanding performances in various DSO (District Sports Office) tournaments conducted in the Vasai–Virar area over the past fortnight of September 2026.

Under-17 Girls Football Team – Champions:
The Don Bosco Under-17 Girls Football Team emerged champions in the DSO U-17 Girls Football Tournament held at Yash Vidya Nikethan School, Virar West. The team defeated Muljibhai Mehta School 2–0 in the quarterfinal and Yash Vidya Nikethan School 1–0 in the semifinal, with Hitanshi Kailash Patil scoring all three goals. In a thrilling final against Carmelite High School, Vasai, the match ended goalless and Don Bosco secured victory 3–2 in the penalty shootout. Sakthivel Adidravidan, Pranita Ramesh Shinde and Ritika Rajesh Jaiswal converted the penalties, while goalkeeper Ritika Rajesh Jaiswal made two brilliant saves to help the team clinch the championship.

Other notable achievements included:

• Ansh Nalawade – Std XII Science: Silver Medal in Under-17 Kickboxing, 55 kg category

• Daivaik Singh – Std XII Science: Gold Medal and 1st Position in Under-17 Kickboxing, 65 kg category

• Harshini Jayanthan – Std X: Gold Medal in Open Sight Women’s Rifle Shooting

Fr Joaquim Fernandes, Vice Principal and coordinator of the school’s sporting activities, stated that sporting excellence is the result of consistent effort, discipline and preparation over time. He explained that the identification of talented players and students begins at an early stage, giving them sufficient time to develop their skills and prepare for competitive events. Their commitment to practice, punctuality, fitness and teamwork plays a vital role in preparing them to compete confidently at the inter-school and district levels. He expressed his appreciation for the dedication of the coaches and teachers who train, coordinate and encourage the students, often putting in considerable time and effort.

The coaches expressed their pride in the students’ achievements and appreciated their commitment, discipline and determination throughout the training and competitions.

These achievements would not have been possible without the dedication and guidance of our coaches, who trained and mentored the students with commitment and perseverance. We express our sincere gratitude to the Management for their constant encouragement and support in promoting sports and providing opportunities for students to excel. The collective support and commitment of the Management and Staff have played an important role in nurturing the sporting talent of our students and inspiring them to strive for excellence. These achievements reflect the students’ dedication, discipline, teamwork, perseverance and sporting spirit, bringing great pride to the Don Bosco family.