The 37th Inter-School Table Tennis tournament, organized by Leo Club of Dimapur began today at Lions Centre, Dimapur which saw the participation of 12 schools. A large number of students are participating in both the boys and girls categories vying for the Singles and Doubles titles.
Speaking on the occasions as chief guest, President of Lions Club of Dimapur, Basu Damani congratulated the organizers for sustaining the tournament over 37 years, and commended successive generations of Leo members for their commitment to promoting table tennis and providing young players with opportunities to showcase their talent.
Describing the occasion as an honour, Damani said table tennis required concentration, quick reflexes, physical fitness, strategic thinking and mental alertness. He noted that the game taught valuable lessons in preparation, timing and determination, qualities that were equally important in facing challenges in life.
Addressing the participating students, he emphasised that participation and learning were as important as winning. He encouraged players not to consider defeat a failure if they learned from the experience, adding that discipline, sportsmanship and perseverance were essential qualities of a successful sportsperson.
Damani also highlighted the wider benefits of sports, saying physical activity promoted fitness, discipline, healthy living and stronger bonds within communities. Referring to the familiar maxim that a sound mind resides in a sound body, he congratulated the students for choosing table tennis as a means of maintaining physical and mental well-being.
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He also acknowledged the contributions of coaches, referees, parents and organisers in guiding and supporting young athletes, and urged the Leo Club to continue its efforts to promote table tennis.
Damani also announced that he had spoken with the District Governor of Lions International the previous day and that she had agreed to contribute a substantial amount towards sports equipment to help the Leo Club expand its activities and attract more members.
In their exhortation, Leo Club president, Happy Jain and chairperson for the tournament, CA Arihant Ajmera encouraged the participating students to play with a sportsmanship spirit and with determination.
The tournament would conclude on October 11. On the occasion, the results of the slogan competition would also be announced.
