Media Release
Mangaluru, Mar 3: The Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM) Neermarga unit organised an inter-ward cricket tournament for men and Lagori for women on February 26 at St Joseph The Worker Church ground.
The inaugural programme commenced with the seeking of God’s blessings through a prayer song that allowed the audience to open their hearts and minds in conversation with the divine. The words of welcome by Jelroy Vas, president of ICYM filled the occasion with warmth and hospitality. Fr Anil D'Mello, parish priest, Fr Prakash Lobo, Brother Rakesh Francis, Francis Gonsalves and Zita Usha Fernandes, vice president and secretary of Parish Pastoral Council, Sunil – ICYM animator and Jelroy Vas were the dignitaries on the dais.
Fr Anil D’Mello, in his motivating presidential address, said, “I just want to say that give it your best and compete with integrity as well as keep it a fair play. Sports make us healthy and strong and not only teach us to celebrate victory, but also accept defeat with grace.” The participants raised their hands and voiced in unison the oath administered by Rovin the sports secretary, promising to take part in different events honestly and in a spirit of sportsmanship. The cricket and lagori matches then started with 15 and 11 teams and a terrific battle was seen between teams with discipline and enthusiasm. It was really good to see the exuberance in the audience, which really helped the players to perform well on the ground. The confidence that the audience showed in their teams and love that they showered gave a huge motivation to the players. In the cricket tournament, Man of the Series was won by Roshan, Best Batsman and Best Bowler by Anil and Prajwal and Player of the Match by Praveen. Lourdes Ward won the Cricket Cup and Runner up trophy was secured by Fathima Ward.
In Lagori contest-Rovita won the All-Rounder trophy, Best Shooter and Best Fielder awards were bagged by Ancita and Melvita respectively. Lourdes Ward emerged to be victors and Christ the King Ward claimed the Runner-Up title.
On the whole Cricket and Lagori Tournaments enhanced team coordination, increased concentration and alertness.