“The Takshila Interschool Sports Tournament was not just about trophies and medals; it was about igniting passion, nurturing discipline, and celebrating the joy of participation.”

Delhi Public School, Coimbatore, proudly organized the Takshila Interschool Sports Tournament on 28th and 29th August 2025, featuring Kick Off (Football) and Master Move (Chess). The event brought together budding sports talents from several reputed schools in and around Coimbatore, offering students a valuable opportunity to compete, collaborate, and celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship.

The tournament began on 28th August amidst a slight challenge from unexpected rainfall in the morning, which led to a delay in both the arrival of teams and the commencement of matches. Despite this, the organizing committee swiftly rearranged the schedules, ensuring that all events could be conducted smoothly without compromising on quality or fairness.

Our Head of School, Ms. Maheswari Natarajan, played a pivotal role in uplifting the morale of the participants. She greeted the teams warmly and encouraged every player with her motivating words. Her enthusiastic presence not only inspired the athletes but also set the tone for the tournament — one of positivity, energy, and sportsmanship.

Football, being the most awaited segment of the tournament, witnessed 16 teams competing fiercely in the U–10 Boys and U–19 Girls categories. The school grounds were vibrant with cheers from students, teachers, and coaches who had gathered to witness the thrilling matches.

The matches were played in the true spirit of competition. The young footballers in the U–10 category displayed remarkable energy, coordination, and courage, while the U–19 girls impressed the spectators with their strategy, stamina, and determination. 

Results – U–10 Boys:

• Winner: Delhi Public School, Coimbatore
• Runner-up: SNS School
• Best Defender: Arnav (CIRS)
• Best Player: Daksha (Adhyayana School)
• Best Goalkeeper: Adharsh (SNS School)
• Best Scorer: Vihaan (Delhi Public School)

Results – U–19 Girls:

• Winner: Delhi Public School
• Runner-up: Adhyayana School
• Best Defender: Harini (Adhyayana)
• Best Player: Manish (SNS School)
• Best Goalkeeper: Siddhi (Delhi Public School)
• Best Scorer: Aashritha (Delhi Public School)

The finals of both categories were especially gripping. Each match drew loud cheers and applause, reflecting the passion of the participants and the excitement of the spectators.

On 29th August 2025, the spotlight turned to Master Move – Chess, hosted in the MP Hall. A total of 51 participants competed across four categories: Boys U–8, Boys U–15, Girls U–10, and Girls U–14.

The quiet intensity of the chess hall stood in stark contrast to the lively football fields. The participants demonstrated concentration, logical thinking, and patience throughout their matches. Every move was watched carefully by the opponents and eagerly observed by the referees and peers.

Chess Results:

• Boys U–8: Winner – Sarvesh (Delhi Public School); Runner – Lakshan (SNS School)
• Boys U–15: Winner – Jairam (Chinmaya Vidhyalaya ); Runner – Pranav (SNS School)
• Girls U–10: Winner – Yuthiska (Vidya Nikethan);Runner – Krishvi (Delhi Public School)
• Girls U–14: Winner – Shamithra (Vidhya Nikethan); Runner – Keshav Sreeram (Delhi Public School)

The matches highlighted the mental discipline of the players, proving that chess is not just a game of skill but also of patience, resilience, and foresight.

The Closing Ceremony of the Takshila Interschool Sports Tournament was held on 29th August 2025 at 2:00 p.m. in the MP Hall. The atmosphere was charged with excitement as participants, coaches, teachers, and parents gathered to celebrate the achievements of the young players.

The ceremony began with a warm welcome extended to the Chief Guest, Ms. Vanithamani, Head of the Department, Associate Professor, Department of Physical Education from Avinashilingam University. She was received with great respect and enthusiasm by the school management and escorted to the dais. Her presence brought grace and honor to the occasion.

Our Head of School, Ms. Maheswari Natarajan, addressed the gathering with heartfelt words. She praised the determination and sportsmanship of all the participants, applauded the winners for their hard work, and highlighted the importance of such tournaments in shaping young learners. She also expressed gratitude to the staff, referees, and organizing committee for their tireless efforts in ensuring the smooth conduct of the event.

The most awaited part of the ceremony was the Prize Distribution. The winners of both football and chess categories proudly walked up to the stage to receive their certificates, medals, and trophies. The honors were presented jointly by the Chief Guest and the Principal. The audience erupted in applause as each awardee was recognized for their skill, dedication, and perseverance.

The Chief Guest, Ms. Vanithamani, delivered an inspiring speech. She congratulated all the winners and participants, acknowledging their efforts and resilience. She spoke about how sports play a vital role in nurturing discipline, leadership, and self-confidence among students. Her words encouraged the young athletes to continue balancing academics and sports with equal passion.

The Vote of Thanks was delivered by a member of the organizing committee. Sincere gratitude was expressed to the Chief Guest for her gracious presence, to the Head of School for her guidance, to all participating schools for their enthusiastic involvement, and to teachers, referees, and volunteers for their dedicated efforts.

The ceremony concluded with the National Anthem, sung by all present with great pride and unity. The hall resonated with patriotic fervor, marking a dignified and memorable end to the tournament.

The Takshila Interschool Sports Tournament turned out to be a memorable and highly successful event, despite the initial delay caused by rain. It provided students a platform to showcase their physical skills in football and intellectual strength in chess. The dual nature of the tournament reflected the holistic development encouraged at DPS – one that nurtures both body and mind.

The enthusiastic participation of 16 football teams and 71 chess players, coupled with the encouragement of coaches and parents made the tournament a grand celebration of talent and teamwork.

The event not only produced champions but also taught every participant valuable lessons of sportsmanship, resilience, dedication, and unity. The memories created during these two days will inspire both players and spectators to continue striving for excellence in the field of sports and beyond.