Mangaluru: St Aloysius Pre-University College (SAPUC), Mangaluru, celebrated its Annual Sports Meet, reaffirming the integral role of sports in holistic education. The event highlighted how sporting activities nurture physical fitness, mental well-being, leadership, perseverance and resilience, shaping individuals beyond the confines of the classroom.
The proceedings commenced with an impressive march past featuring students, NCC cadets representing the Army, Navy and Air Wings, and contingents from the three extension services. The Chief Guest, Mr Bhakshith Salian, Athletics Coach at the Khelo India Centre and Founder of Endurance Academy, received the salute of honour. The ceremonial hoisting of the sports flag by the Chief Guest, followed by the inauguration of the meet in the presence of Rev. Fr Balaraju SJ, Secretary and Treasurer of the Mangalore Jesuit Educational Society (MJES), who presided over the programme, formally marked the commencement of the celebrations. One of the highlights of the inaugural ceremony was the ceremonial torch run, led by the college’s finest athletes and medal winners who had brought laurels to the institution at state and national-level competitions. The spectacular relay symbolised the spirit of sporting excellence, unity, determination and the enduring pursuit of victory.
Recalling the distinguished legacy of St Aloysius PU College in nurturing athletic talent, Mr Bhakshith spoke of a time when aspiring sportspersons, including his schoolmates, chose the institution for their pre-university education, drawn by its commitment to supporting sports. He recalled that several of his contemporaries had gone on to secure national medals in the 100-metre and 200-metre events. Emphasising the importance of balancing sporting ambitions with academic pursuits, he urged students to pursue both with equal dedication. He also pointed out that educational qualifications remained indispensable even for those aspiring to secure employment through sports quotas in government departments.
Referring to India’s proposed bids to host the 2036 Olympic Games and the 2030 Commonwealth Games, he expressed optimism that sustained commitment to sports could see future international champions emerge from the college. He encouraged students to devote at least an hour each day to physical fitness, emphasising the importance of cultivating a sporting culture from an early age. Citing Mangaluru Olympians Vandana Rao, M. R. Poovamma and Jo Chacko Kurian, who trained at Mangala Stadium, he highlighted the region’s rich athletic potential. He then formally declared the Annual Aloysian Sports Meet 2026 open.
In his presidential address, Rev. Fr Balaraju SJ observed that the spectacular march past was a reflection of the students’ discipline, collective commitment and unwavering sense of purpose.
Underscoring the Jesuit vision of holistic education, he emphasised that sports were an indispensable dimension of students’ all-round development. He urged participants to accept victory with humility and defeat with grace, reminding them that resilience, participation and mutual encouragement were far more enduring than the medals and trophies won on the field.
Sports Secretary Tanvi led the oath-taking ceremony, during which the flag bearers solemnly affirmed their commitment to fair play, integrity and sportsmanship. Track and field events formed the centrepiece of the meet, providing students with an opportunity to showcase their athletic abilities, endurance and competitive spirit. Teaching and non-teaching staff members also participated in the sporting activities, reflecting the collective involvement of the college community.
Addressing the gathering at the valedictory programme, Principal Rev. Fr Clifford Sequeira SJ described sports as a way of life rather than merely a pursuit of medals and trophies. He observed that movement and physical activity were essential to human life, contributing to physical fitness, mental alertness and emotional well-being. He encouraged students, including those not involved in competitive sports, to make regular physical exercise an integral part of their daily routine.
Congratulating all the participants, Fr Clifford observed that every student who had taken part was a winner, irrespective of the medals secured. He noted that the true reward of sports lay in the joy of participation and the satisfaction of giving one’s best. He also acknowledged the efforts of teachers, coaches, volunteers and organisers who had worked behind the scenes to ensure the successful conduct of the meet. In particular, he appreciated the dedication and contribution of Physical Education Directors Mr Naveen Kumar and Ms Usha A J, Student Sports Secretaries Ayush and Tanvi, and the College Sports Committee led by Mr Alwin Saldanha and his team.
In the overall standings, Batch 2 secured first place in the I PUC category, while Batch 29 emerged as the winners in the II PUC category. The achievers were honoured at the prize distribution ceremony.
The meet was attended by Campus Minister Rev. Fr Anthony Derrick SJ; Vice-Principals Mr Muralikrishna G M and Ms Vilma Fernandes; Deans Ms Kiran Shetty and Mr Inas Dais; and PTA Secretary Ms S K Sumaiah. Ms Vilma Fernandes welcomed the gathering, while Ms Liliann Benjamin of the Department of English compered the programme.
