Mangalore Diocese News

By Ashley Cleon Pinto

Bejai - Mangaluru, Aug 30 – The Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM) unit of St Francis Xavier Church Bejai successfully organized a two-day badminton tournament, Smash N’ Serve, on Saturday and Sunday, 23rd and 24th August,2025 at the Indoor Badminton Stadium, Lourdes Central School, Bejai. The event brought together energetic participation, healthy competition, and vibrant parish community support.

The tournament commenced at 5:00 p.m. on 23rd August with the singles matches. At 6:00 p.m., the programme was formally inaugurated in the presence of esteemed dignitaries:
Rev. Fr J. B. Saldanha, Parish Priest of Bejai Parish and Director of ICYM Bejai Unit; Rev. Fr Norman Mathias, Assistant Parish Priest of Bejai Parish; Dn Royden Misquith, SJ; Ms Jane Maria Nalini Saldanha, Assistant General Manager of Karnataka Bank; Mr Suhas M, Senior Manager of Karnataka Bank - Bejai Branch; Mr Roshan J Cardoza, Assistant Branch Manager of Karnataka Bank - Bejai Branch; the main sponsors of the event; Mr Listan Pinto, President of ICYM Episcopal City Deanery; Mr. Ashok Pinto, Vice President of the Parish Pastoral Council; and Mr. Godwin Pinto, Convener of the 21 Commissions. Also present were Ms. Wilma Carol Martis, President of ICYM Bejai Unit, and Mr. Lawrence Mathias, Secretary.

The Inaugural Program was carried out by Br. Preetham Crasta, and began with a warm welcome address delivered by Mr Lawrence Mathias.

The first day witnessed spirited singles matches, while the second day was dedicated to doubles matches. Parishioners gathered in large numbers to cheer for the players, creating an atmosphere of encouragement and camaraderie. Refreshments were arranged for all participants, ensuring an energetic and welcoming environment.

On Sunday afternoon, the Valedictory Ceremony was carried out by Ms Alisha Rego, Joint-Secretary of ICYM Bejai Unit; in the gracious presence of the dignitaries. The winners were announced by Mr Ashley Cleon Pinto, PRO of ICYM Bejai Unit; and the prizes were distributed to the winners. Words of appreciation were shared by Ms Carol Cutinha, acknowledging the efforts of the organizers and the participants alike.

The event concluded as a grand success, marking Smash N’ Serve as yet another memorable sporting initiative by ICYM Bejai Unit, fostering youth engagement, sportsmanship, and community spirit.