Media Release
Mangaluru, Apr 24: St Aloysius Institute of Education, a leading college of teacher education of the city conducted its 14th annual sports meet here in the centenary grounds. The chief guest, Sukanya Acharya (International Master Athlete and Entrepreneur, Mangaluru), inaugurated the ‘Athletic Meet 2024’ by hoisting the college flag.
Speaking on the occasion, the chief guest said, “Take some moments to recognize the profound significance of sports in your lives. In a world where stress and anxiety seem to be constant companions, engaging in sports offers us a breath of fresh air. Physical activities and sports have a unique ability to uplift our spirits and rejuvenate our minds. Participation in sports instils in us a sense of discipline like the commitment to teamwork, and the courage to challenges, all that contribute to shaping not just athletes, but individuals of character and integrity.” Adding further, the chief guest mentioned, "It saddens to see that many of our students today are side-lining sports in favour of gadgets and screens. While technology undoubtedly has its merits, we must not overlook the invaluable benefits that sports bring to our physical and mental well-being. Therefore, we need to encourage our youth to embrace the joy of sports and outdoor activities."
Presiding over the inaugural ceremony, Fr Vishwas Misquith SJ (Secretary and Treasurer – Mangalore Jesuit Educational Society), said, “Sports, indeed, serves as a powerful metaphor for the journey we all undertake in our lives. Sports reflects on the essence of perseverance. In the arena of sports, success is not merely measured by talent alone, but by the sheer determination and motivation to push through challenges. In life, the path to achieving our goals is often met with obstacles. It's the perseverance amidst adversity, that distinguishes the champions from the rest. Whether it's overcoming injuries, setbacks, or failures, perseverance is the bedrock upon which our successes are built. Achievement in sports is not an overnight phenomenon, rather it is the dedication and the countless hours an athlete allocates to hone his or her skills. The refusal to settle for mediocrity, that enables us to release our full potential and achieve extraordinary achievements.”
The sports meet began with a splendid march past which displayed unity and sportsmanship of athletes. Dr Farita Viegas, principal, rendered the welcome address. Sports secretary, Bleseena, administered the oath to the athletes. Student council president, Muriel Sequeira, delivered the vote of thanks. Arun D’Souza and Nithisha Rodrigues (Department of physical education, St Aloysius Deemed to be University, Mangaluru) officiated the events. Fathima Naswra, compered the programme. Santhosh Furtado, convenor, organised the sports meet.