Media Release
Mangaluru, Aug 31: The Department of Sports Science & Wellness, Yenepoya Institute of Arts, Science, Commerce & Management (YIASCM), Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangaluru, celebrated National Sports Day on August 29 at the YIASCM Kulur campus. The celebrations marked an important milestone with the first-ever inter-collegiate Kabaddi championship for women, alongside the third season of the YIASCM Pro Kabaddi League.
The event was graced by Jagadish Kumble, former Indian Kabaddi player and Pro Kabaddi coach, as the chief guest, and Dhanalakshmi, World Kabaddi champion, as the guest of honour. Both dignitaries were felicitated during the inaugural ceremony in recognition of their contribution to the field of Kabaddi and sports.
In his inaugural address, Jagadish Kumble appreciated the efforts of the Yenepoya Group in promoting and strengthening a sports culture across different streams of education. He encouraged young students to dedicate committed time to sports, highlighting its importance in maintaining wellness, physical fitness and a better quality of life.
Dhanalakshmi, in her address, emphasised that success is the result of the extra effort put in by winners. She noted that their dedication, disciplined practice and perseverance serve as valuable lessons for everyone who aspires to achieve excellence in any field.
Delivering the presidential address, Prof Jeevan Raj, principal, YIASCM, appreciated the Department of Sports Science & Wellness for its efforts in developing a strong sports culture among young people. He also appreciated all the participating institutions for demonstrating an enthusiastic sporting spirit. He highlighted the University's commitment to supporting sports talent through BA Sports Studies under the NEP framework, which provides aspiring sports students with enhanced opportunities for training, participation and practical exposure through sports adoption.
Sujith, physical director, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), and Narayan Sukumar A, vice principal, YIASCM, were also present during the inaugural programme.
The highlight of this year's celebrations was the launch of the first inter-collegiate Kabaddi championship for women, providing a competitive platform for young women athletes. The championship witnessed participation from six teams in the pre-university (PU) category and five teams in the degree category, reflecting growing interest and participation in women's Kabaddi.
The YIASCM Pro Kabaddi League – Season 3 also featured six teams, continuing the institute's initiative of providing students with structured opportunities to experience competitive Kabaddi and develop sporting skills, teamwork and competitive spirit.
Dr Anandavelu T M, programme coordinator, YIASCM Pro Kabaddi League, welcomed the gathering. Dr Deekshitha Prashanth and Shreenidhi introduced the dignitaries and guests. The programme was compered by Pinakini Shetty, assistant professor. Dhanush Begur, coordinator, proposed the vote of thanks.
The National Sports Day celebrations and the inaugural women's inter-collegiate Kabaddi championship thus marked a significant step forward in YIASCM's continued efforts to promote sports culture, encourage women in competitive sports, nurture sporting talent and integrate sports into holistic education.