Challenges 2022-23
The five S's of sports training are: stamina, speed, strength, skill, and spirit; but the greatest of these is spirit - Ken Doherty
26th November 2022 was a remarkable and an eventful day for the students of Anand Niketan, Sughad as they energetically participated in a myriad of sports activities during 'Challenges' - The sports day of the school.
In the presence of dignitaries, guests and parents, the event started with the children of grades 5 to 12 marching into the sports ground, and gradually to their well decorated enclosures belonging to their respective houses- Agni, Jal, Prithvi and Vaayu. Thereafter, in the Torch Lighting Ceremony, the head girl and the sports captains took turns and carried forward the torch and ignited the flame, which remained lit during the entire sports meet. The senior students took part in the march past, lined up for the oath taking ceremony and took a pledge under the guidance of the respected The Honourable HRD Minister Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, Managing Trustee- Vivek Patel and Director-Nashy Chauhan, and it was an honour for the school to have the august presence of the minister who took time out from his busy schedule to motivate and encourage students on the importance of physical activity, fitness and sports.
As the day progressed, middle school children representing the four different houses showcased some captivating drill-presentations in the form of Zumba, Afro Jazz, Yoga with interesting props to some catchy, foot-tapping beats. Subsequently, different groups of children participated in diverse races like flat race, obstacle race and relay race. Students strived to be winners themselves and also persevered to do their best for the house they belonged to. The goal for all students was to put forth their best efforts to garner points for their houses as well as set a benchmark for their own competence in the sport activity that they took part in. As the winners were announced, students collected their share of medals, certificates and basked in the glory of collective cheer and accolades. It was endearing to see team spirit and unity reflected in the various sport games and races that day. The students rooted for their teams with gusto and the ambience at the sports ground was peppered with enthusiasm and a healthy sportsmanship spirit. Later, as the children lined up in the field, in anticipation, to hear the final verdict with regard to the winning house of the year, they rejoiced in jubilation for their own house and for their friends too!
Similar programs were held on 24th and 25th of November for the younger group of the school. This year’s theme for the Sports Day- 'Ignite your Ikigai or Life Purpose' was an apt choice after a lull in sports activities for two years due to Covid-19. The students of kindergarten to grade 4 ignited their passion and participated in a slew of physical endurance activities. The games and races for pre-primary and primary were skill based and non-competitive. The focus was to begin with the end in mind, ensuring all steps in completion of the task on hand are completed with dexterity and precision. From putting together the ingredients of a healthy plate to modeling a fit and healthy life, young students spread the message of the importance of sports, health and mental well-being.
This was the essence of the annual sports day that effervesced all over the school campus bringing out the IKIGAI in one and all.
By the end of the sports days, we only remember those incredible moments where sheer human will and desire overcame the odds; as those are truly important life lessons.