St. Joseph’s College successfully conducted its Junior Rugby Carnival at the College grounds on the 10th of November with the participation of students from grades 3, 4, 5, and 6 (29 teams).
The tournament was hosted to nurture young talent in the school as St. Joseph’s College aims to be a force to be reckoned with in the rugby arena. There were a total of nearly 200 children joining on the day from 4 grades.
The grade 3 title was won by 3s3 as Micheal Perera won the best player in that age group. 4s3 won the grade 4 title, with Ramithu Jayakody being named the best player. Dihein Jayasinghe won the best player award for grade 5 as his 5s6 emerged victorious.
In the oldest age group participating, Chithila Jayasooriya was named the best player as his 6s4 class ended as champions.
The distinguished chief guest for the occasion was Mr. Ravi Marcelline, an illustrious alumnus of St. Joseph’s College. Noteworthy for captaining the 1st XV rugby team in 1980, Mr. Marcelline lent his prestige to the proceedings by graciously presenting the awards to the deserving victors.
Central to the event were four memorial trophies, each symbolising excellence and named in honor of esteemed individuals who significantly contributed to the legacy of St. Joseph’s College rugby. The Late Mr. Susantha Saparamadu’s legacy was commemorated through the Grade 3 champions, while the Grade 4 victors paid homage to the late Mr. Shouafu Liu. Grade 5’s triumph was dedicated to the memory of the Late Dr. Hubert Aloysius, and the Grade 6 champions proudly held the trophy named after the Late Mr. Ishan Perera.
The award ceremony was graced by the esteemed presence of key figures in the school’s administration, including Rev. Fr. Ranjith Andradi, the Rector of St. Joseph’s College, Mr. Shamal Rodrigo, Chairman of the Rugby Advisory Committee, and Mr. Chandana Kuruppu, Chairman of the Junior Rugby Committee. Their involvement underscored the event’s significance and emphasised the values of sportsmanship and teamwork.
The Junior Rugby Carnival not only highlighted the burgeoning athletic talent within the school but also served as a platform to celebrate the storied legacy of St. Joseph’s College in the realm of rugby. As the applause resonated across the grounds and the trophies were presented under the radiant sunlight, it became evident that the spirit of sportsmanship and unity thrives at St. Joseph’s College, fostering memories that will endure in the young athletes’ hearts for years to come.