Mangaluru: The inauguration of an inter-collegiate badminton tournament called ‘Silver Jubilee Cup’ was held at the FMMC Indoor Stadium on Friday, December 13. The tournament is being organised by the Department of Physiotherapy at Father Muller Medical College.
The chief guest of the inaugural ceremony was former badminton champion Ashok Poovaiah. FMCI Director Fr Richard Coelho presided over the programme.
After a spirited dance performance by the college students, a brief prayer hymn was sung to ensure an auspicious start to the tournament.
Addressing the gathering, chief guest Poovaiah lauded the administration for organising such a sporting event. He said, “I am honoured to be a part of such an event. I really congratulate Father Muller College for holding such a unique tournament and moreover, opening it up for the public to watch as well.”
In his address, Fr Richard Coelho said, “Our college is celebrating 25 years. On the academic front, we recently held a symposium on medical care and on the sporting front we are organising such events. Such tournaments are important because they help build relationships and friendships. Today, you can see there is so much turmoil in the country and we all need to learn to live in peace and harmony with each other.”
Talking about his own experience with badminton, the Director said, “I used to play but I had to stop a few months ago as my joints and knees are not like they used to be. But you are not like me as you have a lot of youthful energy.”
Afterwards, the chief guest, as well as other dignitaries, proceeded to the center court of the stadium in order to play a brief game of badminton.
Earlier, tournament convener Sudeep Pais welcomed the gathering and Organising Secretary Akhil Mathew delivered the vote of thanks.
FMMC Administrator Fr Ajith Menezes, FMMC Dean Dr Jayaprakash Alva, Vice-Dean Dr Padmaja Udaykumar, and others were present at the inauguration.
The inter-collegiate badminton tournament witnessed the participation of universities not only from Karnataka but also from neighbouring states such as Hyderabad.
