Gopi Birla Memorial School hosted its annual sports day on January 25, 2025, at the University Ground Pavilion, Marine Line, Mumbai. Annual sports day at GBMS was a mix of sports activities and exercise routines, which reflected the interest of the school in student development.
The sports day began with the March past by the students with precision and coordination. As guests of honour, the parents of the head boy, head girl, and sports leaders attended the flag-hoisting ceremony led by the campus head. The event began with a school song and the Sports Captain's Sports Pledge.
March past by the students |
Madhu Wadke, principal of Gopi Birla Memorial School, addressed the gathering and spoke about the sporting achievements of the students in the current academic year. Speaking exclusively with The Free Press Journal, Principal Wadke said, "At Gopi Birla Memorial School, we believe that sports play a vital role in holistic development, which is why we encourage 100% participation. The Annual Sports Day is an opportunity for students to not only showcase their talents but also to learn valuable lessons in resilience, cooperation, leadership, empathy, and sportsmanship. It serves as a vibrant celebration of physical and mental well-being, encouraging students to embrace the spirit of healthy competition and teamwork.”
She further added, “The lessons learnt through sports help students excel academically, develop social skills, and prepare for life’s challenges. They form a strong foundation for creating well-rounded, confident, and capable individuals.”
The event included a mass drill and display. Junior grades participated in mass PT sessions, while middle school students performed yoga demonstrations. Senior students performed Lezim and Aerobics routines, merging traditional elements with fitness concepts.
Track and field events did not miss out on showing competitive spirit. A sort of skill demonstration was seen among the younger students in apparatus races like Ball in the Bucket, Sack Race, Run and Drag, and Spoon and Marble, whereas track events from 75M to 800M runs represented senior grades and culminated in relay races that tested individual effort beyond teamwork and coordination.
“Sports play a pivotal role in shaping students' character and fostering values that extend beyond the playing field. They learn teamwork and collaboration, discipline and time management, resilience and perseverance, leadership and responsibility, and ethical behaviour—values that are important for academic success and personal growth." Principal Wadke mentioned that these qualities form the foundation of a well-rounded individual, enabling students to excel both in academics and socially as well.
For young and aspiring athletes, Principal Wadke said, “Sports are not just about winning or losing; they are about the journey, the lessons learnt, and the camaraderie built along the way. Every time you step onto the field, court, or track, you’re not just competing with others—you’re challenging yourself to be better than you were yesterday. So, keep playing, keep improving, and enjoy the process. Remember, the effort you put in today will shape the person you become tomorrow!”
The closing event was the prize distribution ceremony in recognition of the students, and then flag-lowering and the National Anthem. The participants and the spectators departed with memories of a day that celebrated sportsmanship and personal growth.
