Media Release

Mangaluru, Mar 6: The Father Muller Medical College hosting the Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences (RGUHS) Sate Level Shuttle Badminton Tournament from March 3 to 5, was inaugurated on March 3 by the chief guest, Dr Kishore Kumar C K, director of Physical Education, Mangalore University, along with other dignitaries on the dais. The other dignitaries present were- Dr Shiv Sharan K, DCI member and syndicate member, RGUHS, Bengaluru; Dr U T Ifthikar Ali, syndicate member of RGUHS
Bengaluru; Dr Sharan J Shetty, senate member, RGUHS, Bengaluru; Fr Richard A Coelho, director FMCI; Fr Rudolph Ravi D’sa - Administrator, FMMCH and Fr Ajith Menezes- Administrator- FMMC; Dr J P Alva- Dean FMMC; Chandrashekar- Physical Director, FMMC, among others.

This mega event was hosted by FMMC with logistical and manpower support and was conducted at state-of-the-art Father Muller Indoor Stadium. Nearly 200 plus participants from 38 teams from all over medical institutions in Karnataka took part in the tournament. Large-scale preparation and ground work was meticulously monitored by the administrator FMMC, Fr Ajith B Menezes and his team. Chandrashekar, Physical Director of the FMMC who also dons the post of Mysore Zone Regional coordinator for Sports and Games of RGUHS coordinated the sport.

The inaugural programme began with an audio presentation of Nada Geethe, followed by a welcome address by the dean Dr Jayaprakash Alva. Following the unveiling of trophies to mark the inauguration, the chief guest Dr Kishore Kumar in his inaugural address said, “I am really overwhelmed to see such a large number of participants from nearly 38 teams from all over Karnataka. This shows that students are also interested in sports and not only academics. Sports is a must for youngsters like you, so you can have a healthy and fit body. FMMC has given an opportunity for you to unleash your sporting talents at this beautiful indoor stadium. Winning does not matter, participation matters. Play with a true sportsmanship spirit and continue making sporting activities as part of your daily lifestyle."

Fr Richard Coelho in his presidential address said, “Wow, indeed a large group of youngsters are taking part in this tournament, and remember that you are all winners to take part in this prestigious RGUHS state-level badminton tournament. Also, remember that winning is not important, but, taking part is important. Like the chief guest said, you need sports also as part of your education career, to keep you fit and healthy. You have all done the right thing in making this sport as part of your hobby and lifestyle. Enjoy your stay in this beautiful coastal town and be happy here at our institution during the tournament days- You are all liked by our institution students."

Following the vote of thanks by compere Dr Reshma Quadros, a PG in Pharmacology at FMMC, the dignitaries were escorted to court no 6, to play the inaugural game, and declare the tournament open. Dr Kiran Shetty- Medical Superintendent Father Muller Hospital- Thumbay, Dr Padmaja Udayakumar- Vice-dean, FMMC; Dr Udaya Kumar- Medical superintendent, FMMC; Fr Nelson Dheeraj Pais- Assistant administrator, FMMC; Sr Jacintha D’Souza- Principal, Father Muller College of Nursing were among others who graced the occasion.

The valedictory ceremony of the men and women tournament ended on March 4 at 5.30 pm, which was followed by a tournament for the staff, which will conclude on March 5 evening.