Mangalore Diocese News

Media Release

Mangaluru, Sep 16 : The AICS Girls’ Football Tournament, “MCCS KICKSTART QUEENS 2k24” for D.K Schools was hosted by Mount Carmel Central School, Mangaluru with much excitement and grandeur on September 14, 2024 on its School Grounds. The event commenced with the arrival of the Chief Guest Rev. Fr. Arun DSouza, AICS Sports Secretary of D.K and Principal of St. Dominic’s School, Bantwal; Principal Sr Melissa; Superior of Vijaymari Convent Sr Asha Prima; Vice Principal Sr Teena; PTA Vice President Mrs Preema Dcunha and Tournament Coordinator Mr Richard who were warmly ushered in by the NCC cadets, creating an energetic and vibrant atmosphere.

Tr Leena Jose, extended a gracious welcome to the audience, setting the tone for the day. This was followed by a soulful prayer by the school choir, invoking blessings for the success of the tournament. A mesmerizing welcome dance was then performed by the MCCS Dance troupe, showcasing their cultural talents and highlighting the spirit of unity and sportsmanship. The Principal, Sr. Melissa accorded a warm welcome to the Chief Guest and the dignitaries. In a special gesture of appreciation and love, Mr Richard presented the Chief Guest a flower sapling, symbolizing the school’s commitment to growth and environmental care. The match referees were welcomed with a rose by Sr Asha Prima in appreciation of their support to conduct the tournament fairly.

The highlight of the event was the symbolic inauguration of the “MCCS KICKSTART QUEENS 2k24” Football Tournament. The chief guest Fr Arun DSouza kicked off the ball in the goal post, while the crackers were lit by the other dignitaries as the ball struck the other end of the goal post. It was both unique and creative, capturing the essence of the tournament.

The chief guest, in his message appreciated the initiative taken by MCCS to conduct AICS Inter School Girls’ Football Tournament for D.K Schools, for providing a platform for showcasing the sportive talents and encouraging female participation in field events. He urged the participants to keep up the sportive spirit and to put forth an unstoppable performance throughout the tournament. Tr. Princita Dantis delivered the Vote of Thanks, expressing gratitude to all who contributed to making the inaugural function possible.

After the formal inaugural, the dignitaries moved to the newly constructed spacious football ground where the chief guest, along with the dignitaries kicked off the tournament, signalling the official start of the matches, marking the start of what promised to be a thrilling event.

The “MCCS KICKSTART QUEENS 2k24” culminated in the evening, in a spectacular Valedictory Function in the Nursery Hall of the School. The event celebrated not only the success of the tournament but also the spirit of sportsmanship and teamwork exhibited by all the participants.

The ceremony began with a warm introduction by Tr. Prathiksha who set the tone for the evening by welcoming all present. This was followed by a solemn prayer song by the school choir, invoking blessings and expressing gratitude for the successful conduct of the tournament. The Vice Principal, Sr.Teena took the stage to welcome and introduce the Chief Guest Dr Kishore Kumar C.K, Director of Physical Education and Chairman, Department of Physical Education, Mangalore University. As a token of appreciation for gracing the event, Principal Sr Melissa presented the Chief Guest, a flower sapling, symbolizing growth, respect and the importance of nurturing the talent.

The Chief Guest Dr Kishore, in his address congratulated all the teams, not only for their victories but for the spirit of sportsmanship and fair play. He encouraged the players to continue honing their skills and to carry the lessons learned from the field into their daily lives. Tr. Riyona DSilva delivered a heartfelt Vote of Thanks, expressing deep gratitude to the organizers, chief guest, referees, participants and supporters.

The highlight of the function was the Prize Distribution Ceremony, where the tournament’s best teams and players were recognized for their outstanding performances. The Championship Trophy under 14 category was awarded to Manipal School, Mangaluru and under 17 category was presented to the host school, Mount Carmel Central School, Mangaluru. The winning teams received loud applause and appreciation from the audience for their dedication and hard work. Individual players who stood out during the tournament were also honoured with special awards, acknowledging their unique contributions to the game.

The valedictory function concluded with a sense of accomplishment and pride as the participants left the venue, carrying with them memories of an exciting tournament that celebrated not just football, but teamwork, perseverance and camaraderie.