Media Release
Mangaluru, Oct 6: Lourdes Central School celebrated its Annual Sports Day 2026 for students of grades VI to XII on October 6 at Mangala Stadium, Mangaluru, with the inspiring theme, 'Spirit in Action: Strive & Shine'.
The inaugural programme commenced in an atmosphere filled with enthusiasm, discipline and sporting spirit. The occasion was graced by chief guest Fr Faustine Lobo, director, Father Muller Charitable Institutions, Mangaluru; Fr Stany Pereira, manager; Fr Johnson L Sequeira, principal; CA Merlita Pinto, guest of honour; Nirmal D’Souza and Cynthia Avita Pinto, vice president and secretary of Bejai Parish Pastoral Parishad; academic coordinators, Deepa D’Souza and Suneetha K; and sports convener Vishwanath Devadiga.
The ceremony began with the assembly of students, followed by prayer and the ceremonial March Past. The March Past showcased the discipline, unity and pride of the NCC cadets, senior students of grades XI and XII, and the four houses—Opal, Coral, Jade and Amber. The school band added grandeur to the occasion with its energetic and synchronised performance.
The sports flag was then ceremonially raised, symbolising integrity, courage, humility and grace—the core values of true sportsmanship. The arrival of the Sports Torch added further significance to the occasion. Accomplished young athletes carried the torch into the stadium, and the flame was then transferred to the Sports Cauldron, officially marking the commencement of the Sports Meet 2026.
The oath-taking ceremony followed, and the sports minister Adiya Alva administered the pledge. The formal inauguration was further marked by the planting of a sapling by the chief guest and dignitaries, symbolising growth, strength, perseverance and the flourishing spirit of the students.
A vibrant mass drill presented by the students added colour and energy to the proceedings. The synchronised movements beautifully highlighted teamwork, coordination and the power of collective effort.
The welcome address was delivered by Rovina, Hansika, Mohammed Qayim and Kaustub - students of grades XI and XII, followed by the introduction and felicitation of the chief guest. Addressing the gathering, Fr Faustine Lobo highlighted the true essence of sports—fair play, humility and respect. Drawing examples from cricket, he emphasised the importance of accepting both victory and defeat with grace and sporting spirit.
This was followed by the presidential address by manager Fr Stany Pereira, who encouraged the students to shine and thrive in every phase of life. He urged them to remain resilient, face challenges with courage and continue striving for excellence.
The programme concluded with the vote of thanks proposed by Pareekshith U P, the sports minister. With the declaration, “Let the games begin!”, the young Lourdites took to the field with renewed enthusiasm and a strong commitment to excellence. The programme was compared by Salma Rayeesha, Ewan D’Souza, Diya and Ayush Nambiyar and the programme concluded with the House System Song.