Mangalore Diocese News

By Pravita Monis

Surathkal, Oct 12, 2024 : The Surathkal (Mixed) Cricket League, organized by the Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM) Surathkal, was a grand and exciting event that brought together some of the best cricketing talent in the region. The tournament took place on a bright and sunny weekend on 6th October, running from 10 AM until the evening at the Surathkal church ground. The energy and enthusiasm from both players and the crowd made it a memorable occasion.

The tournament began with an official inauguration ceremony at 8:30 AM with a short prayer led by the members of ICYM Surathkal, asking for God's blessings for the smooth conduct of the tournament and the safety of all the participants. The energy of the morning prayer set the tone for the day's events. The event was smoothly hosted by Ms Veona Noronha, ICYM Lady Vice President.

The event was inaugurated by Very. Rev. Fr. Austin Peter Peres, Surathkal Parish Priest, also Director of ICYM Surathkal. Along with him, the dais was graced by Mr. Russel Roche, Vice president of Parish Pastoral Council, Mrs Asha Pinto ,Parish Pastoral Council Secretary, Mr Norbert Misquith, PPC commissions’ Coordinator, Youth Commission Convenor Mr Sandeep Dsouza, ICYM Animator Ms Teena Rebello, ICYM President Mr Ajith Dsouza, ICYM Secretary Ms Daina Dsouza, ICYM sports Secretary Nithesh Dias, also Deanery President Mr Keith Lobo and Deanery Secretary Ms Maria Dsilva.

The Parish Priest, also Director of ICYM Surathkal, Very. Rev. Fr. Austin Peter Peres delivered an inspiring inaugural speech. He emphasized the importance of sportsmanship, teamwork, and the spirit of inclusiveness, particularly praising the efforts of the ICYM Surathkal for organizing a mixed cricket league where both boys and girls could equally showcase their talents.

The inauguration ceremony was then officiated by Fr. Austin Peter Peres, who gracefully hit the first ball to mark the commencement of the tournament. A variety of dignitaries and guests joined on the dais, adding grandeur to the occasion. They all expressed their joy and support for this unique tournament, highlighting how such events foster unity and friendship among the youth.

The tournament witnessed enthusiastic participation from various teams across Youths of Surathkal parish. The teams that competed in the event included:

● Team Royal Wolves Surathkal
● Team Stormrise Warriors Surathkal
● Team Midwicket Marvels Surathkal
● Team Dynamic Dynamos Surathkal
● Team Game Changers Surathkal
● Team Thunder Strikers Surathkal

The league matches were filled with competitive spirit, with each team showcasing their passion, skills, and determination. The day saw some nail-biting finishes, extraordinary fielding efforts, and brilliant batting performances from both boys and girls.

In every match, the Player of the Match was recognized for their outstanding performance. Among the notable players were : 
● Melric Pinto from Midwicket Marvels Surathkal
● Suman Pinto from team Dynamic Dynamos Surathkal
● Steevan Dias from team Game Changers Surathkal
● Carol Dsouza from team Stormrise Warriors Surathkal
● Joyal Dsouza from team Thunders Strikers Surathkal
● Nikhil Albuquerque from team Game Changers Surathkal
● Leander Robin from team Dynamic Dynamos Surathkal
● Brayan from team Stormrise Warriors Surathkal
● Stalin Dsouza from team Dynamic Dynamos Surathkal
● Best Batsman- Joyel Dsouza from team Thunders Strikers Surathkal
● Best Bowler- Nikhil Albuquerque from team Game Changers Surathkal
● Women of the Series- Marina Dsilva from team Game Changers Surathkal

After a full day of exhilarating cricket, two teams emerged as the top contenders for the title. In the thrilling final match, Dynamic Dynamos Surathkal battled it out against the Thunder Strikers Surathkal. The final was a close one, but ultimately, the Dynamic Dynamos Surathkal came out victorious, clinching the championship trophy.

● Champions: Dynamic Dynamos Surathkal
● Runners-Up: Thunder Strikers Surathkal

The winning team and the runners-up were awarded the grand trophy by the Parish Priest, also Director of ICYM Surathkal, Very. Rev. Fr. Austin Peter Peres. It was a day filled with joy, friendly competition, and sportsmanship.

Surathkal (Mixed) Cricket League concluded with a vote of thanks by ICYM President Mr Ajith Dsouza, expressing gratitude to the sponsors, participants, and the audience. ICYM Surathkal successfully brought the community together through sports, and everyone left the venue with high spirits, looking forward to next year’s tournament!