Mangaluru: The much awaited and most exciting day in the school calendar, a platform to showcase the hidden talents beyond scholastic performance, the annual sports meet of St Aloysius Gonzaga School was held on November 24 at the Mangala Stadium. The occasion was graced by Vikas Puthran, a national level athlete, as chief guest and presided over by Fr Pradeep Sequiera SJ, the acting rector of St Aloysius Institutions. The other dignitaries present were Fr Ivan Mendona SJ, manager of SAGS and the academic principal Grace Noronha.

The opening ceremony commenced with the arrival of the chief guest, escorted by the smartly attired guard of honour. The elegant march past by the four houses synchronizing to the beat of the drum, invigorated the sportsman spirit in everyone’s mind. The beautiful rendition of the prayer song by the school choir was followed by the welcome address delivered by the academic principal. The most important part of the ceremony was the arrival of the torch which invoked the enthusiasm of the participants to exhibit their true sportsmanship in the upcoming events. The sports prefect, Vinay Adrian D’Souza administered the oath to the athletes. Chief guest Vikas Puthran thereafter hoisted the flag and declared the meet open amidst thunderous applause. Addressing the students, Vikas Puthran expressed his opinion by saying that sports should not be limited to just 'Sports Day', but it should be a vital part of our daily life. He requested the parent community to support their children in various sports' events and encouraged the students to take sports as a career and bring glory to the unmatched legacy of their alma mater.

In his presidential address, Fr Pradeep Sequiera SJ, appealed to the students to use a particular talent to bring out the best of themselves as well as of others. The fight to win is important and it helps to develop the other qualities in human beings.

Abdul Rahman Ayan of class IX proposed the vote of thanks.

After the formal inauguration, there were a variety of interesting events for the day which included, long jump, running race, shot-put and relay.

The athletes participated with determination to achieve victory and glory for their respective houses amidst the cheering from the students. The winners were honored with certificates and medals. Towards the end of the day Green House stood first with highest overall points.

The meet was declared close following the lowering of the flag, and the Gonzagaites sang the National Anthem with pride. All Gonzagaites dispersed carrying with them sweet memories of the day which will be remembered in the travelogue of their school life and also with the expectations of yet another exciting sports meet, in the year to follow- 2017.