This school instills a sense of community spirit and athletic triumphs

“If you want to run, run a mile. If you want to experience a different life, run a marathon.” – Emil Zatopek

In the symphony of a school’s academic calendar, just like Annual Appreciation Day holds immense significance,  Annual Sports Day also emerges as a crescendo. For schools, it’s a vibrant celebration that transcends the boundaries of competition and athleticism.

Far beyond the arena of races and trophies, the importance of Annual Sports Day lies in its profound impact on the holistic development of students, fostering a sense of community, discipline, and physical well-being. To elevate this spirit amongst youngsters, Apeejay School International (ASI), Panchsheel Park recently celebrated its Annual Sports Day.

Living in an era that is dominated by screens and sedentary lifestyles, the Annual Sports Day of this school served as a beacon, encouraging students to embrace physical activity. The event commenced as a procession of participants wielding flags and made their grand entrance onto the field. Aligned in a single file, a vibrant tapestry unfolded as they adorned themselves in a spectrum of colours – from shades of yellow and fluorescent green to striking red and calming blue, impeccably coordinated with their respective grades.

The welcome speech began and was delivered by the vice-head girl of the school, Nia Lobo, a student of DP-1.

Following this, the Principal of the school, Mr Purshottam Dutt Vashisht, welcomed all the parents of the participants.

“I welcome you all to the Annual Sports Day of ASI, where students have delved themselves fully with their mind, body, and spirit. The students have worked exceptionally hard. It is my profound privilege to announce that I including some of the staff of the school are now working actively as IB evaluators. IB school’s are evaluated every 5 years, and we will complete our 5 years in 2025.”

He further opined that as an IB school, he would not have made it possible to run it well, without the active support of  Mrs Sushma Paul Berlia, Chairman, Apeejay Education, and Chancellor Apeejay Stya University, Dr Neha Berlia, Co-Promoter of Apeejay Stya and Svran Group and Pro-Chancellor of Apeejay Stya University, Mr Nishant Berlia, Co-Promoter Apeejay Stya and Svran Group and Pro- Chancellor, Apeejay Stya University and Mr Aditya Berlia, Co-Promoter of Apeejay Stya and Svran Group and Pro-Chancellor of Apeejay Stya University. Their leadership and entrepreneurial spirit contribute significantly to the group’s educational and industrial endeavours.

‘Apeejay School International’s Annual Sports Day was a vibrant display of not just athletic prowess, but also the holistic education we champion. Witnessing the students’ enthusiasm, teamwork, and sportsmanship on the field embodies the spirit of learning that extends beyond textbooks. It’s a testament to our focus on nurturing the ‘hand, heart, and mind,’ where physical development and a spirit of healthy competition go hand in hand with academic excellence and a compassionate outlook’ added the Principal of the school.

Infusing the event with exuberance, the school’s Principal, accompanied by the Reception and PYP kids, inaugurated the proceedings with a spectacular display, releasing a multitude of balloons into the air. This grand opening set the tone for an exciting and joyous celebration.

Following this, an oath-taking ceremony took place in the symphony of loyalty and sportsmanship.

The inaugural performance unfolded with the school’s dynamic rock band, comprised of 12-15 students from various programs. This talented ensemble showcased a diverse array of skills, featuring exceptional guitarists, powerful vocalists, skilled drummers, and more.

Enthusiastic participants also shared their heartfelt gratitude towards teachers and their thoughts on the event. Maria Shepphard, a Reception kid, exclaimed, “Thumbs up to the day. It’s like the best feeling in the world.”

Students Soven, Jojo, and Sia from PYP-5 expressed, “It was a fun event. We enjoyed it to the fullest. We worked so hard for it and also won. Willing to participate next year as well.”

A student of MYP-3 Rosanna proudly stated, “I feel absolutely proud of winning all the gold medals. I worked very hard for it. I believe, if you practice and work hard, you can achieve anything.”

Nia Lobo, a student of DP-1, opined, “It was exciting, enthusiastic, and loved the teachers’ support. Specifically, teachers were of great help. If they would not have been there, the event would not have been possible.”

Adding an enlightening and engaging touch to the event, quiz rounds were organised for parents. The central theme of the quiz predominantly revolved around the principles of sportsmanship, enriching the atmosphere with interactive and thought-provoking participation.

“The event is superb! I feel great to be a part of Apeejay School’s family. This school is really incredible and absolutely unbeatable,” says Mrs Sarvesh, mother of Rianna, a Reception student.

The event unfolded with captivating showcases of various sports, ranging from football to taekwondo, basketball, yoga, and more. Students from different programs exhibited their skills and unique techniques, adding a competitive yet skillful flair to each game. In the Yoga and Acrobatics segment, students creatively arranged themselves on the field, forming the abbreviation ‘ASI’ through synchronised efforts.

“ASI is absolutely the best school. The Principal, the teachers, and the entire staff are highly approachable and even friendly. There was a big reason why I chose the IB curriculum for my child, because of the child vs teacher ratio, and I am so happy to see that my expectations are being fulfilled here,” says Mrs Nadia, mother of Aidan, a student of PYP.

The students of PYP-4 and PYP-5 came ahead to display their unique  skills through a drill showcase.

Subsequently, a ‘Funathon’ series kicked off at the sports day which began with the obstacle race, sprints, hurdles, and finally the relays which added an energetic twist as students from various grades went head-to-head, with speed reigning supreme.

Sharing his thoughts, Mr Alok Verma, father of  DP-1 student Manya Verma highlighted, “This school is absolutely wonderful. The best thing is to see how both, parents as well as the students both are participating wholeheartedly. The encouragement of the school is great. The sports day event is well-organised. Super happy to have seen Manya’s progress. So far, so good!’

“All participants did a fantastic job! It’s wonderful to witness their enthusiasm for staying fit through physical education classes. Handling with young kids can be challenging, but it’s always a pleasure for me,” says Mr Ayush Khrub, Physical Education teacher.

The highlight of the event was, when parents courageously joined the races, followed by spirited competitions among teachers and supporting staff.

Adding a touch of humour, two young students served as lively commentators, keeping the audience enthralled with their hilarious jokes.

“It’s an amazing event where kids enjoy themselves, emphasising fun over competition. The school’s initiative to encourage student participation in sports is commendable,” says Mrs Moksha, Mrs Sakshi & Mrs Vidusha, mothers of Arisha, Suhina, and Sovir respectively, students of class PYP-4.

Further, Mrs Shalini Fate, PYP coordinator metioned, ‘It was such a resounding success. Everything went as per my expectations. I was the lead counselor. Although it would not have been possible without the extreme support of all the participants, teachers, and our beloved, Principal sir.”

Eventually, the joyous moment of the day arrived when  participants, including students and parents, were awarded with medals and token of achievements.

Soon thereafter, Nia Lobo extended extended the vote of thanks. “As the Vice Head Girl of ASI, I am pleased to express my gratitude to everyone who attended the Annual Sports Day. I want to thank Mrs Sushma Paul Berlia, our guiding light, for supporting us in every endeavour. Special thanks to Dr Neha Berlia, Mr Aditya Berlia, and Mr Nishant Berlia for their steadfast support. Heartfelt thanks to Dr VS Garg, the senior education officer of Apeejay Education, for his immense support and guidance. I also extend my sincere thanks to the school principal, Mr Purshottam Dutt Vashist, whose unwavering support has been instrumental in our journey. A big thank you to all the sports coaches, support staff, teachers, students, and parents. Your dedication and enthusiasm have made this event a memorable success.”

The event concluded with the national anthem. This celebration was marked not just by an investment into the physical well-being of the students but also helped nurture young athletes who sculpted individuals to face the challenges of a dynamic world with resilience, discipline, and a spirit of unity.