by Lisa Dominic
NAVI MUMBAI, NOV 27, 2017: It was a spectacular display of talents, camaraderie and sportsmanship as Don Bosco Senior Secondary School, Nerul 
celebrated its 12th Annual Sports and Cultural Festival in line with the theme 'The Circle of Life' which encompassed 'the self', 'the family', 'the school', 'the society' and 'the environment' on November 23 and 24.
The theme helped the students to understand that they are connected in the great 'Circle of Life' that should be respected as it connects them together. The Chief Guest, Father Glenford Lowe, and the Guests of Honour, Father Bonnie Borges, the principal, Father Donald Fernandez, Dorothy Fernandez, the physical education teachers of neighbouring schools and PTA members were present at the inaugural ceremony.
Father Borges welcomed the gathering, following which the flag was hoisted and the torch relay began. A march past followed and each squad held a banner which encompassed an environmental aspect of the Circle of Life. The mass drill, aerobics, yoga and medley of folk dances showcased by the students of standard one to eight provided a blend of sports and culture.
Father Lowe, in his inspiring address, appreciated the efforts of the students. "The future sportsmen and sportswomen are here on this playground today. The gold medals you win here will lead you all to win at the Olympics," he said. Thereafter the students dispersed to various venues to participate in different events that were organised for them. All students from standard one to twelve participated in either sporting disciplines or cultural activities. Around 2700 certificates and 900 sets of medals were distributed to the winners.
On the second day, events such as tug of war and relay were conducted. Teaching and non-teaching staff members, parents and past pupils joined in the celebrations by participating in the special events organised for them. The closing ceremony which marked the end of the annual sports and cultural meet included the lowering of the school flag and distribution of certificates and medals.
Father Borges and Father Fernandez lauded the efforts of the students and the teachers. "I am so proud and delighted to win five medals in the sports events," Elria Dias, an Individual Championship winner, said. "Since I am not a sportsperson, the cultural activities that were conducted gave me an opportunity to prove my talents," Aaryan Hebbalkar, a winner of the Individual Championship Award for Cultural Activities, added.