Mangalore Diocese News

Media Release

Mangaluru, July 25 : Despite the rain-drenched July morning, the spirits of the athletes were high as they gathered in the Main Hall of St. Theresa’s School for the inaugural AICS Inter-school Table Tennis Tournament, "Champion Champ," on July 25, 2024.

Distinguished guests graced the occasion, including Dr. Rohan Monis as Chief Guest, Mr. Gowtham Shetty as Guest of Honour, Sr. Shaila, Correspondent of St. Theresa's School, Sr. Lourdes, Principal of St. Theresa’s School, Mr. Nitish PM, Chief Official, Mrs. Collette Cabral, PTA Vice President, and Mrs. Anita, Physical Instructor at St. Theresa’s School.

The ceremony began with a prayer dance by the talented students of St. Theresa's, invoking blessings. Sr. Lourdes welcomed everyone and encouraged students to excel in sports and all life endeavors. She introduced the Chief Guest, Dr. Rohan Monis, to the gathering.

In his address, Dr. Monis, the Chief Administrative Officer of Kanachur Hospital and Research Centre, emphasized sportsmanship, discipline, and hard work, inspiring participants to strive for excellence. He narrated a short story about Maria, a famous athlete, encouraging children to drive social change through selfless service and to embrace challenges for social impact.

The tournament was creatively inaugurated by Dr. Rohan Monis and other dignitaries, with Sr. Shaila officially declaring the "Champion Champ" Table Tennis Tournament 2024 open.

Mrs. Maria Dsouza proposed the vote of thanks.

Mr. Gowtham Shetty, Vice President of the Karnataka Table Tennis Association, briefed the participants on the rules and regulations of the competition. As the tournament began, anticipation for thrilling matches and memorable moments of triumph filled the air. Mrs. Prafulla Fernandes expertly compered the inaugural program.

Closing Ceremony:

The event concluded with a vibrant closing ceremony attended by dignitaries, students, coaches, Physical Education instructors, and staff. The MC, Mrs. Savita Pinto, greeted the audience warmly. On the dais were Sr. Shaila, President of the day' s event, Mr. Gowtham Shetty, Guest of Honour, Mr. Nitish PM, Sr. Lourdes, and Mrs. Collette Cabral.

Sr. Shaila addressed the gathering, praising the participants for their hard work and enthusiasm and commending St. Theresa's School for hosting the tournament. The highlight of the closing ceremony was the prize distribution. Trophies and certificates were awarded to the winning teams, with results announced by Mrs. Doreen Dsouza:

Under 14 Girls:
1. St Theresa's School
2. Mount Carmel School
3. Delhi Public School

Under 14 Boys:
1. St Theresa's School
2. SDM Mangaluru
3. Sri Sathya Sai LokaSevaVidya Kendra

Under 17 Girls:
1. St Theresa's School
2. Mount Carmel School
3. St Mary's Central School

Under 17 Boys:
1. Delhi Public School
2. St Theresa's School
3. Mount Carmel School Mangalore

The referees Mr.Elson, Mr.Vian, Mr.Aditya, Mr.Harsha, Mr Kaushal and Miss Harna were thanked for their commendable efforts in judging the competition.

Mrs. Savita Albuquerque and Mrs. Shilly Prakash served as the announcers for the day's table tennis event. Mr. Ashwin D. and Mr. Rajesh G creatively crafted a beautiful backdrop on stage, making the event truly special.

The program concluded with the singing of the National Anthem, marking the end of a successful and memorable tournament.