Media Release
Mangaluru, Feb 18: The much-awaited 'Dr M R Shetty Memorial Cup' Physio Premier League 2025 was officially inaugurated on February 14 at the Padua high school Ground, Nanthoor. This year, a total of 21 boys’ teams and 15 girls’ teams have registered for the two-day event, showcasing the growing enthusiasm and participation in the tournament. The Dr M R Shetty Memorial Cup is an annual cricket tournament held for physiotherapy students, honouring the legacy of Dr M R Shetty, the founder secretary of Dr M V Shetty memorial trust.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by Pratap Singh Thorat, ACP of Mangaluru North Division, who addressed the gathering on the importance of incorporating sports into one’s life. In his inaugural speech, Thorat emphasized the need for each individual to dedicate at least two hours daily to sports and physical activity in order to stay fit and healthy.
The guest of honour, Dr Saleemulla Khan, chairman of the RGUHS BOS in Pharmacy, extended his heartfelt congratulations to the organizing chairperson Dr Ifthikar Ali for successfully organizing the Dr M V Shetty Memorial Inter Physiotherapy Colleges Cricket Tournament for the past 29 years, highlighting the event’s long-standing tradition and impact.
The function was presided over by Dr Ranjith Shetty, trustee of the Dr M V Shetty Memorial Trust, who, in his presidential address, expressed his joy and appreciation for the enthusiastic participation of physiotherapy students, likening the spirit of the event to that of a Physiotherapy World Cup.
In a special moment during the ceremony, all dignitaries jointly unveiled the trophies for the tournament before engaging in an exciting Inaugural match, marking the beginning of the competition.
Prof L Gladson Jose, convenor, extended a warm welcome to all attendees. The ceremony was managed seamlessly by Dr Divya, lecturer at the college, as the master of ceremony. The event was supported by Dr Vaishali, organizing secretary, and Jayaprasad, co-ordinator, who ensured that the programme was a grand success.
As the tournament unfolds, both the boys' and girls' teams are set to demonstrate their cricketing prowess, with the competition promising an exciting and competitive atmosphere.
Valedictory programme highlights
The valedictory programme was held on February 15 at the Padua High School ground. The event marked the successful conclusion of this inter-college cricket tournament, which brought together physiotherapy colleges for an exciting display of talent and sportsmanship.
The esteemed Dr Shiva Sharan K, senate member of RGUHS, graced the occasion as the chief guest, while Dr Divyanjali Shetty, trustee of the Dr M V Shetty Memorial Trust, was the guest of honour.
Dr Vaishali, the organizing secretary, played a pivotal role in comparing the event, ensuring smooth transitions and adding a touch of warmth and enthusiasm to the proceedings.
Dr U T Ifthikar Ali, the organizing chairperson, expressed his sincere gratitude to the management for their generous sponsorship of the tournament, which was instrumental in making the event a resounding success. His words of thanks were met with appreciation from all attendees for the support that helped bring this exciting competition to life.
Boys’ category: In the highly competitive boys' category, KTG college, Bengaluru emerged as the champions, showcasing exceptional skills and determination throughout the tournament. Laxmi College boys secured the runners-up position.
The special award recipients in the boys’ category included:
Best batsman: Gaurav Lute of Srinivas College: Best bowler; Bimal of Laxmi College; Best fielder: Pavan of KTG College and man of the series: Aakash from Laxmi College
Girls’ category: In the girls’ category, the Laxmi College girls’ team were crowned the champions, while Dr M V Shetty College girls' team secured the runners-up spot.
The top performers in the girls’ category were:
Best batswoman: Prekshitha of Dr M V Shetty College; Best bowler: Ankitha of Dr M V Shetty College; Best fielder: Anupa of Laxmi College and woman of the series: Ankitha of Dr M V Shetty College
The valedictory event celebrated not only the winners but also the spirit of camaraderie and teamwork displayed by all participants. The event was honoured by the presence of Dr U T Ifthikar Ali, organizing chairperson; Dr L Gladson Jose, convenor; Dr Vaishali, organizing secretary; Jaya Prasad, coordinator; along with principals, physical directors, and staff from various participating physiotherapy colleges.
As the programme concluded, there was a sense of fulfilment and pride among all present, looking forward to future editions of this prestigious event.