Media Release
Mangaluru, Sep 30: The Sports Week inauguration was conducted in Lourdes Central School with great enthusiasm and energy. The programme began with a warm welcome to Fr Stany Pereira, manager; Fr Johnson L Sequeira, principal; Anitha Thomas, vice principal; teachers, parents and students. The theme ‘Spirit in action: Strive and shine’ highlighted the values of discipline, perseverance, teamwork and sportsmanship.
The programme commenced with the universal prayer and prayer song, led by the Little Tiny Tots Prayer team, seeking God’s blessings for a successful Sports Week. This was followed by the raising of the school flag, accompanied by the house captains of Opal House, Coral House, Jade House and Amber House, and Sharvi Shetty, the head girl, carrying the school flag.
The NCC cadets of grades IX and X also participated in the ceremony. The dignitaries and physical education teachers were also part of the flag-raising ceremony. The school anthem was then sung, followed by the Sports Week pledge, led by Bhargav, reaffirming the students’ commitment to fair play, discipline and teamwork.
The official inauguration of Sports Week was marked by an impressive opening pyramid presented by the grade 9 students, followed by the unveiling of the champion’s trophy by the dignitaries. The Thought of the Day reminded students that success lies not merely in winning but in perseverance, effort and resilience.
An energetic aerobics and fitness display by the students of grade 1D added vibrancy to the programme and highlighted the importance of physical fitness and coordination.
During the manager’s address, Fr Stany Pereira congratulated all the students for their enthusiastic participation and appreciated the manner in which they conducted themselves throughout the inaugural programme. He emphasized the importance of maintaining both physical and mental well-being and referred to the famous Latin saying ‘Mens sana in corpore sano,’ meaning ‘a healthy mind in a healthy body.’ The phrase was written by the ancient Roman poet Juvenal and highlights the close connection between physical and mental well-being. He encouraged the students to develop healthy habits, discipline and a balanced approach to life.
The programme continued with birthday wishes for the students and staff celebrating their birthdays during the period. The inaugural programme concluded on a joyful note with the house system song, setting an enthusiastic tone for the Sports Week ahead.
Overall, the inauguration was a vibrant celebration of fitness, teamwork, discipline, determination and the true spirit of sportsmanship.