By OUR STAFF REPORTER
Dehradun, 25 Oct: St Joseph’s Academy celebrated its 90th Junior School Sports Day, here, today. Students, families, staff and alumni assembled in the great field for a day filled with happy memories.
The Chief Guest was Geeta Dhami, wife of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami.
SJA Principal Bro Joseph M Joseph, Community Leader Bro Asthinus, Bro JC Carroll, school coordinators and several eminent dignitaries were present at the event.
Chief Guest Geeta Dhami hoisted the Olympic flag and Principal Bro Joseph hoisted the school flag, respectively. Together, they lit the ceremonial torch, symbolising St Joseph Academy’s commitment to excellence.
Geeta Dhami declared the sports meet open and colourful balloons were released to mark the beginning of the festivities. This was followed by a vibrant welcome dance.
The stands reverberated with excitement as parents cheered loudly as the races began.
The event not only showcased the athletic skills of more than 1800 Josephites from Classes I to V, but also featured energetic drills incorporating yoga, zumba and taekwondo. Athletes also participated in fun races and relays.
The highlight of the event were the young kindergarteners who sprawled across the great field in a Walk Past to honour community helpers and the armed and defence forces. The SJA Express train charmed its way through the route, encapsulating the school’s spirit of sportsmanship.
Chief Guest Dhami said she was proud to attend St Joseph Academy’s 90th Sports Day.
“I was happy to see the fun races by the young ones and the drills put up by the Junior Josephites. Sports are not limited to play only but in fact through play, children learn so much more. All the children displayed their best foot forward. Whatever the result, you have won our hearts dear children,” she said.
She emphasised the importance of parents encouraging their children to participate in various sports and honing their innate talents.
“Winning is not limited to only getting a trophy. Winning and losing is a part of life and the most important thing is to give and do your best,” she said. She also stressed on limiting mobile phone usage in children and making them learn various activities.
She was presented with a memento by Bro Joseph as a token of appreciation.
The closing ceremony was marked by the marching of the Junior School band to the tune of ‘Dreamers’. The participants of the drills gathered on the big field once again to mark the end of the festivities.
Bro Joseph thanked Chief Guest Dhami for gracing the event.
He appreciated the district administration alumni, coordinators, staff, students and ancillary staff for the smooth conduct of the sports meet and declared the sports meet closed.
The event concluded with everyone singing with pride the School Song and the National Anthem.
