Celebrating young talent at the 10th Inter-Apeejay Short Tennis Tournament

In a world increasingly dominated by screens and virtual experiences, the importance of physical education and co-curricular activities in shaping the minds and bodies of young students cannot be overstated. At Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park, this belief is not just preached but practiced with fervour and dedication.

This was evident in the recently concluded 10th Inter-Apeejay Short Tennis Tournament, a vibrant event that paid homage to the memory of the late Smt Rajeshwari Paul, whose legacy continues to inspire the Apeejay Education community. The First Lady of the Apeejay Stya Group was herself an artist and had an ahead-of-time vision to include art in the education curriculum to facilitate the holistic development of students.

Over three exhilarating days, the school grounds buzzed with energy, enthusiasm, and the unmistakable sound of tennis balls being expertly struck by young athletes. Students from classes I to V, representing various sister schools of Apeejay, gathered to showcase their skills in short tennis, a variant of the sport designed to be accessible and enjoyable for younger players. The tournament served not just as a competitive platform but as a celebration of sportsmanship, camaraderie, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

The event kicked off with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, a tradition that symbolizes the dispelling of darkness and the enlightenment of knowledge. The sonorous rendition of Saraswati Vandana, invoking the goddess of knowledge and arts, set a reverent tone for the proceedings. This blend of cultural tradition and athletic endeavour underscores Apeejay Education’s commitment to holistic education, where academic pursuits and extracurricular activities are woven seamlessly into the fabric of student life.

As the tournament progressed, it became clear that the young participants were not just playing for medals or trophies; they were also learning invaluable lessons about resilience, teamwork, and the importance of consistent effort. The intense matches, played under the watchful eyes of coaches and teachers, highlighted the potential and prowess of these budding tennis champs, many of whom displayed skills beyond their years.

The prize distribution ceremony was a testament to the spirit of the event. The school’s Principal, Ms Surabhi Joshi, and Vice-principal, Ms Vandana Bansal took to the stage to hand over medals and trophies to the winners, but every participant was recognised for their dedication and spirit. In her address, the Principal congratulated the winners and all the participants, emphasising the importance of practice, dedication, and the continuous pursuit of improvement in not just sports but all facets of life.

This tournament, dedicated to the cherished memory of Smt Rajeshwari Paul, was more than a sports event; it was a reflection of Apeejay Education’s ethos. By prioritising a balanced education that values academics and co-curricular activities equally, Apeejay schools are nurturing responsible, well-rounded citizens of tomorrow.

Events like the 10th Inter-Apeejay Short Tennis Tournament are shining examples of how sports can be a powerful medium for education, personal growth, and the celebration of young talent.