Media Release

Mangaluru, Nov 17: The AICS Basketball Tournament – Bouncing stars' was inaugurated at Mount Carmel Central School, Maryhill, Mangaluru on Saturday, November 17.

The atmosphere at the school was vibrant with the expectation of the several teams – a total of 25 teams of boys and girls from different CBSE and ICSE schools of DK and Udupi districts, all awaiting the big moment. “Talents win games, but team work and intelligence win champions,” were the opening words of the host of the event, Agnes Pereira, Computer Lecturer of the school.

The chief guest of the inaugural ceremony was Kishore Kumar B, Regional Manager of State Bank of India, Mangaluru. He was accompanied by the Joint Secretary of the school Sr. Maria Jyothi, Administrator Sr Carissima, Principal Sr Melissa, Naveen Shetty, President of Mangaluru Basketball Club and PTA vice President Ryan Lobo, upon arrival.

The programme began with an invocation to God by the school choir, seeking His blessings. A colourful and rhythmic welcome dance made everyone feel at home on the campus. The dignitaries were then escorted to the dais. The Principal gave the welcome address. The tournament was inaugurated by lighting the Diya by the dignitaries. The Chief Guest addressed the gathering and inspired and encouraged the players with his message.

Melissa delivered the vote of thanks. Deepak, Physical Director of Sharada Residential School, Udupi instructed the teams about the tournament rules. Bouncing the ball on the ground and shooting it on the basket, the Chief Guest officially declared the tournament open. The Chief Guest and other dignitaries then met all the teams and wished them well.

The tournament is held simultaneously on the school grounds and at U S Mallya basketball stadium.