Puttur: The annual sports meet of the Mai De Deus Group of Educational Institutions, held in memory of its founder, Monsignor Antony Patrao, was inaugurated on October 10th at the St. Philomena College grounds in Puttur.
The event, marked by enthusiasm and participation from over a thousand athletes from seven institutions, featured a colourful opening ceremony, inspiring speeches, and a spirit of unity.
Chief Guest Rafiq K.M., Inspector of Police, Mangaluru City Crime Branch, in his address, emphasized the role of sports in teaching “courage, cooperation, and the ability to adapt.” He called sports a “school of life,” noting that victory brings joy, and defeat provides inspiration.
Reflecting on his time as a student at St Philomena College 25 years ago, Rafiq K.M. credited his involvement in the NSS unit for building his self-confidence and teaching him how to socialize, calling it a “turning point” in his life. He urged the students to embrace sports throughout their lives and congratulated the organizers for the beautifully arranged event.
Presiding over the function, Msgr Maxim Lawrence Noronha, Vice President of the Mangaluru Catholic Board of Education, remarked that the sports meet “resembled a grand fair.” He highlighted that sports not only help in winning medals but also aid in increasing knowledge, developing a broad outlook, and providing mental fortitude. He extended his congratulations to all the athletes.
Rev. Fr Lawrence Mascarenhas, Correspondent of the Mai De Deus Group of Educational Institutions, in his introductory remarks, acknowledged the immense contribution of Rev. Antony Patrao in establishing the educational institutions in Puttur. He stated that the sports meet, organized in his memory, is a way to continue his mission and dream, leading the institution towards growth. Comparing all institutions under the Mai De Deus Church to branches on a tree, he said, “This is a day to show that we are all one.” He wished that the institutions would shine brightly and that the “rays of knowledge would spread across the world.”
Inauguration Ceremony
The opening ceremony commenced with Fr. Lawrence Mascarenhas and other guests paying floral tributes at the statue of Monsignor Antony Patrao on the St. Philomena campus. Monsignor Maxim Lawrence Noronha hoisted the sports flag, officially flagging off the meet.
A spectacular march-past by athletes from all institutions under the Mai De Deus Group took place, with the guests receiving the salute. The meet was officially inaugurated with the release of balloons into the sky.
Torch Relay and Lighting of the Flame
The sports torch was lit at the Mai De Deus Church by Fr. Lawrence Mascarenhas, who handed it over to the athletes. Approximately 80 state and national-level athletes carried the torch in a procession from the church to the Divya Chetana Chapel at St. Philomena College.
National-level athlete Ranjith Kumar brought the torch from the chapel to the main stage and handed it over to the Guests of Honour. Subsequently, athlete Chaithrika received the torch from the guests and ceremoniously lit the sports flame on the platform.
March Past and Special Performances
More than a thousand athletes from the seven educational institutions under the Mai De Deus Group participated in an impressive march-past. The college NCC cadets and athletes paraded to the accompaniment of band music, saluting the guests.
Following the inauguration, 100 students from St Philomena Degree College (Autonomous) performed the state anthem in commemoration of 100 years of the Kannada state anthem. This was followed by a captivating Chende Mela performance by the student team, accompanied by a saxophone rendition.
Awards and Felicitations
Athlete Sonal Payas administered the sports oath to all the participants.
Monsignor Maxim Lawrence Noronha and Chief Guest Rafiq K.M., an alumnus of St. Philomena College, were felicitated by the Mai De Deus Group of Educational Institutions Correspondent Fr. Lawrence Mascarenhas and others with garlands, shawls, turbans, fruit baskets, and mementos.
Suhas Rai J. and Basil Roy, state-level weightlifting athletes from St. Philomena Aided High School, were also felicitated.
Dignitaries Present
The event was attended by Rev. Fr Marvin Lobo, Assistant Parish Priest of Mai De Deus Church; Gerald D’Costa, Vice President of the Mai De Deus Church Pastoral Committee; Rev. Dr Antony Prakash Monteiro, Principal of St. Philomena College (Autonomous); Rev Fr Ashok Rayan Crasta, Principal of St Philomena PU College; Rev. Fr Maxim D’Souza M., Headmaster of St. Philomena Aided High School; Roselyn Lobo, Headmistress of St. Victor’s Girls’ High School; Harry D’Souza, Headmaster of St Victor’s English Medium School; Janet D’Souza, Headmistress of Mai De Deus Higher Primary School; and Rev. Sr Lourdu Mary, Warden of St. Philomena Women’s Hostel, among others.
Rev. Sr Laura Pais, Headmistress of St Philomena English Medium School, welcomed the gathering. Students from St Philomena English Medium School sang the prayer song. Teacher Jasmine Govias introduced the guests, and Teacher Vidyashree proposed the vote of thanks. Teachers Deepti and Saritha Gonsalvis compered the program.
President and office bearers of the Parent-Teacher Association, Alumni Association office bearers, students, physical education teachers, teachers, lecturers, and staff, extended their cooperation.