On January 30-31, 2024, an Inter-Seminary volleyball tournament was held in honor of the late Friar James KUNCHERAKATT, OFM Conv. (†2005), a gregarious friar who exuded enthusiasm for life. The tournament was held at the Kolbe Franciscan Ashram in Alwaye, India.
The event was filled with jargon and excitement; the players showcased their skills with “digs,” “blocks,” and “service aces.”
The teams from eight seminaries took part. In the end, the Vincentian Seminary in Alwaye and the St. Joseph Pontifical Seminary Mangalapuzha in Aluva faced each other for the final championship match.
The Mangalapuzha Seminary won. The Vincentian Seminary had some difficulty and came in second place. The St. Bonaventure Seminary in Bangalore came in third.
The tournament began each day at 4:00 p.m. with all the players ready to show off their abilities and enthusiasm on the volleyball court. A jubilant crowd was present to support the athletes. The players from each seminary exhibited incredible energy. The tournament became a close contest and continued to draw spectators. The participants were totally focused on their game.
The spectators were equally focused on the tournament. Applause would accompany each hit. The spectators would become dejected whenever the ball was missed by either side. Each of seminary teams featured players with plenty of experience. The spectators stayed engaged in the tournament all the way through. There were five sets per match. The Mangalapuzha Seminary prevailed 3-1 to win the thrilling final match. The event concluded with a speech on the value of good matches and sportsmanship among the seminarians. After the tournament, refreshments were provided. Everything about the event was a success. It was a fantastic experience for all of the players as well as for the students in the audience.
The renowned Indian volleyball player, Tom JOSEPH, presented the trophy.
Friar Patrick VARGHESE (KANNADAN)
