by Vikram Damor sdb
NASHIK-MAHARASHTRA, NOVEMBER 25, 2014: The communities of Divyadaan and Salesian Training Institute organized the annual Oratory cricket tournament on November 23, 2014. Ten teams 
from various parts of Nashik participated in the tournament. The teams were made up of young people who frequented the various oratory centres every Sunday. The purpose of the event - coming has it does during the Bicentenary year of the Birth of Don Bosco - was to convey the values of Christ and enable the young to live as good citizens. Colourful display panels on the ground were used to present the life and mission of Don Bosco.
The event commenced at 8:30 in the morning with a prayer service. Quoting St John Bosco, Fr. Robert Pen, the Rector of Divyadaan, invited the participants to enjoy themselves in everything as long as they keep in mind avoidance of sin. He also spoke about the purpose of conducting such tournaments.
A lot of energy and enthusiasm was exhibited from all the teams in the matches that followed. The initial part of the tournament was played in a league with the top four teams going into the semi-finals. At 3:10 p.m., the field was set for the long awaited final match. Godavari II defeated Japtapwadi II by eight wickets and were crowned worthy winners of the tournament.
Fr. Allwyn K., Social Service Director of the diocese of Nashik was the chief guest for the finals and gave away the prizes to the winning team. He appreciated the Salesians for their efforts to provide various opportunities to the youth who are the future of our country. Awards were given to the winners, the runners-up and the best batsman and best bowler.
The youth expressed joy and satisfaction in being part of this well-organized venture for it gave them an opportunity to place on display their cricketing talent. It was indeed an occasion for the young people of various centres to meet new people as well as to play together as a team.