The importance of exercise, competition and sportsmanship

Academy Senior and Junior Schools held their annual sports days on Wednesday 12th, and Thursday 13th December 2018, respectively. Students in both schools competed in track and field events, and also held the traditional tug-of-war event. Both sports days were conducted in sunny and pleasant weather conditions.

Head of Academy, Dr. Geoffrey Fisher, gave opening remarks at Senior School sports day, and spoke about the importance of exercise, competition and sportsmanship. Junior School principal Sreelatha Kumar gave the opening speech at Junior School sports day, followed by Dr. Fisher lighting the torch signifying the beginning of the event.

Senior School sports day was held in the spirit of competition, with students wearing their house colours and cheering on their teammates in hopes of lifting the house trophy. Events began with the march past competition, giving all the students from grades 612 the chance to contribute to their house’s points tally. This was followed by an aerobic dance performance and the final races. Kakatiya and Nizam took joint first place when march past results were announced. Nizam are poised to give give two-time defending champions, Kakatiya, a run for their money this year with a ten point lead at the end of sports day.

To commemorate the birthday of his Highness the Aga Khan, Junior School held its annual sports day on 13th December, as it does every year. The opening ceremony began with a yoga demonstration by grade 3 students, which was followed by a mass drill with ribbon props by grade 1 and 2 students, and bamboo display by grade 4 and 5 students. Last but not least, there was a ring display by daycare students. Our young learners participated in the crawling race, bucket race, and target throw competitions, drawing great enthusiasm from the audience. Both parents and teachers handed out medals to the winners.

The benefit of sports encompasses discipline, team work, sportsmanship, mental and physical endurance. All these were clearly evident in the events. Aditya Koddapath, grade 4K, says, “I participated in many events including the bamboo display. It was a great feeling to win all these medals!”

Congratulations to all medalists and best of luck to all AKA atheletes for next year!

Contributed by Mita Mohapatra