AICS Table Tennis Tournament 2026 Inauguration Ceremony
AICS Table Tennis Tournament 2026 Inauguration Ceremony Held at SDM School, Ashok Nagar
Mangaluru, July 31: The “SDMS Serve and Smash – AICS Table Tennis Tournament 2026” was inaugurated with great enthusiasm at Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara School, Ashok Nagar, Mangaluru, on Friday. The tournament brought together talented table tennis players from various schools on a common platform and created an atmosphere filled with excitement and sporting spirit.
The programme began with the National Anthem, followed by a prayer by the students and an impressive welcome dance, which was appreciated by all.
The Chief Guest, Mr. Walter Nandalike, Founder and Managing Director of Digiworld Channel, and the Guest of Honour, Mr. Ashwin Padukone, Founder and Certified Coach of Padukone Table Tennis Centre of Excellence, graced the occasion.
The dignitaries were joined on the dais by Mrs. Shrutha Jithesh, Correspondent of the School; Mrs. Joy Jeevan Rai, Principal; and Mrs. Usha Hegde, Academic Coordinator, who added grace to the occasion.
The Chief Guest and other dignitaries officially inaugurated the tournament by unveiling table tennis balls through a specially designed presentation. This unique inauguration symbolised sportsmanship, dreams and achievement, attracting the attention of everyone present.
Mrs. Usha Hegde spoke about the importance of sports and its role in the holistic development of students. Chief Guest Mr. Walter Nandalike then addressed the students and highlighted the importance of discipline, hard work and sportsmanship in sports.
In her presidential address, Principal Mrs. Joy Jeevan Rai stated that competitions are not merely about winning, but also serve as platforms for developing personality, confidence and good values.
The programme was compered by Ms. Asha Priya and Ms. Margaret.
Prize Distribution
At the valedictory ceremony, the winners were felicitated and presented with prizes by Guest of Honour Mr. Ashwin Padukone, Principal Mrs. Joy Jeevan Rai and Correspondent Mrs. Shrutha Jithesh.
Under-14 Girls:
First Place: Mount Carmel School
Second Place: Nazareth School
Third Place: Delhi Public School
Under-14 Boys:
First Place: St. Teresa’s School
Second Place: Canara School, Dongerkery
Third Place: Podar International School
Under-16 Girls:
First Place: St. Teresa’s School
Second Place: Mount Carmel School
Third Place: Carmel School, Mangaluru
Under-16 Boys:
First Place: St. Teresa’s School, Mangaluru
Second Place: SDM School, Ashok Nagar, Mangaluru
Third Place: Podar International School, Mangaluru
The referees and officials were also honoured with mementoes in appreciation of their valuable contribution to the tournament.
The event was attended by players, coaches, teachers, parents and students from various schools. The tournament concluded on a high note, spreading the message of enthusiasm, healthy competition and true sporting spirit among all participants.
