REPORT ON ANNUAL SPORTS DAY 2025–26
“A healthy mind in a healthy body is the foundation of a meaningful life.”
The Annual Sports Day of the Junior School (Grades I to V) for the academic year 2025–26 was celebrated with great enthusiasm and vibrant energy at Vikhe Patil Memorial School, Pune. The event was organised around the school’s annual theme, ‘Mental Health Awareness’ highlighting the importance of emotional well-being alongside physical fitness. The programme commenced in the serene ambience of a beautiful evening, symbolising calmness, balance, and reflection—values deeply connected to mental wellness. The event began with a warm welcome extended by the student anchors on behalf of the Management, Principal, staff, and students to the esteemed parents, dignitaries, and faculty members of VPMS Lohegaon.
The gathering eagerly awaited the arrival of the Chief Guest, Mr. Shubham Kajale, a renowned entrepreneur, finance professional, endurance athlete, Ultraman Australia 2018 finisher, Ironman triathlete, National Record Holder, and TEDx speaker. He was received with a Guard of Honour, followed by the introduction of the House Captains, Vice-Captains, Games Captains, and Head Prefects. The dignitaries gracing the occasion were Chairman Dr Ashok Vikhe Patil, Joint Secretary and Director School’s Programme, Ms Nandini Vikhe Patil, Principal Ms Mrinalini Fernandes, and Vice Principal Mr Amol Patil.
The Sports Day flame was ceremoniously lit, symbolising unity, dedication, and sporting spirit. A special highlight of the event was the Torch Run, carried by students who have represented the school at National and State-level competitions in various sports such as badminton, swimming, athletics, football, yoga, chess, martial arts, and more. Their achievements brought immense pride to the institution and served as an inspiration to all students.
The March Past by students of Grades IV and V showcased exceptional discipline, coordination, and teamwork. The four houses—Ruby (Equality), Emerald (Optimism), Coral (Courage), and Sapphire (Honesty)—marched smartly to the rhythmic beats of the school band, reflecting unity and collective spirit.
With due permission from the Chief Guest, the Sports Meet was formally declared open. This was followed by a ceremonial showcase, the Oath Taking Ceremony, and the rendition of the School Anthem, reinforcing the spirit of fair play and sportsmanship.
The Sports Report was presented, after which the audience witnessed a series of colourful and energetic displays. The students of Grades I, II, and III performed a delightful drill using vibrant scarves, forming circles, rectangles, and diamonds. The display beautifully blended athletic precision with festive joy, symbolising energy, peace, and growth. This was followed by impressive demonstrations of Taekwondo, gymnastics, vaulting horse, rhythmic gymnastics with ribbon, and various gymnastic jumps, showcasing strength, balance, flexibility, and grace.
In alignment with the theme of Mental Health Awareness, a special interactive segment was conducted, including breathing exercises, mood expression, positive affirmations, and kindness activities. These simple yet powerful activities emphasized the importance of calmness, emotional expression, positivity, and mutual support.
The track events included sprints and fun races for students from Std I to V, culminating in an exciting relay race. Each event was marked by enthusiasm, healthy competition, and loud cheers from the audience, celebrating participation over victory.
The event concluded with a Closing March, followed by an inspiring address by the Chief Guest Mr Kajale, who encouraged students to adopt sports as a way of life. The Prize Distribution Ceremony honoured outstanding performances, while special prizes were also announced. The sports teachers were felicitated for their dedicated efforts.
The programme ended with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks, the National Anthem, and a well-organised class-wise dispersal.
The Annual Sports Day truly reflected the school’s motto, “Making Life Meaningful.” It was not merely a celebration of athletic excellence but a reminder that sports nurture teamwork, perseverance, respect, resilience, and mental well-being. The day stood as a joyful celebration of growth, character-building, and holistic education.
