Media Release
Mangaluru, Dec 1: Carmel School, Mangaluru, hosted the much-anticipated AICS Inter-School Girls’ Volleyball Tournament, titled Carmel Spike Fest, on November 29. A total of 17 teams in the Under-14 category and 17 teams in the under-17 category from ICSE and CBSE institutions across Dakshina Kannada district participated, creating a vibrant atmosphere of sporting spirit.
The inaugural ceremony began with the dignitaries being escorted to the dais by the school band, led by Sanvi under the guidance of Prem Moras. The stage was graced by Sr Sudeepa AC, educational secretary, Apostolic Carmel Karnataka Province, who presided over the programme; Sunil Baliga, national volleyball player and chief guest, Sr Rosevera, principal; Sr Dr Prem D’Souza, administrator; Sr Premal, vice principal; and Tanvi Amin, vice president of the PTA.A prayer by the students set a reflective tone, followed by a vibrant welcome dance by the students and a gracious welcome extended by the principal.
In her address, Sr Sudeepa highlighted the importance of discipline, resolve, and cohesive effort. She appreciated the systematic organisation of the tournament and wished every team success. The chief guest, mr Baliga, spoke of his journey in the sport, emphasising respect, unity, and strong bonds formed on the court.The formal launch of the tournament took place with the unveiling of the trophy and the symbolic first serve by the chief guest. The inaugural programme was conducted smoothly with compering by Lara, the introduction of the chief guest by Akshatha, and the vote of thanks by Sr Dr Prem.
What followed was a series of gripping knockout rounds, leading to high-energy quarter-finals, semi-finals, and finals.
In the under-14 semi-finals, Rotary Central School Moodabidri, St Agnes CBSE, SDM English Medium School Ujire, and St Mary’s School Kinnigoli moved ahead after intense play.
In the under-17 category, Carmel School Mangalore, St Agnes CBSE, St Dominic School Badakabail, and St Mary’s School Kinnigoli secured their places in the top four.
The under-14 results were as follows:
• Champions: St Mary’s School, Kinnigoli
• Runners-up: St Agnes CBSE
• First Runners-up: SDM English Medium School, Ujire
• Second Runners-up: Rotary Central School, Moodabidri
The under-17 results were:
• Champions: St Mary’s School, Kinnigoli
• Runners-up: St Agnes CBSE
• First Runners-up: St Dominic School, Badakabail
• Second Runners-up: Carmel School, Mangalore
The valedictory ceremony added a fitting finale to the tournament. Stevan M P Dias, the chief guest for the closing event, delivered a stirring message on sportsmanship. He recounted how a player from St Agnes CBSE, displayed exemplary behaviour by cheering for the opposing team and embracing their players—a gesture that won admiration from everyone present. He encouraged students to persevere, reminding them that athletes rise from humble beginnings through grit and passion.
He also acknowledged Carmel School’s dedication to fostering athletic excellence. The closing ceremony was efficiently anchored by Deepthi, with the welcome and vote of thanks delivered by Cynthia and Sr Supreetha respectively. Sonia introduced the chief guest, and Sr Premal announced the winners.
Carmel School concluded the day with pride, reaffirming its commitment to nurturing young players and promoting a strong sporting culture, while eagerly looking forward to more such inspiring events.