A vibrant sporting atmosphere prevailed at Don Bosco High School, Panaji, on Saturday as students swapped their uniforms for the jerseys of their favourite teams and sportspersons during the school's Sports Jersey Day. With the FIFA World Cup final just a day away, students and teachers alike threw their weight behind finalists Argentina and Spain, filling the campus with lively debates, colourful jerseys and infectious enthusiasm.
The initiative was aimed at promoting sportsmanship, teamwork and a lifelong love for sports. The school corridors came alive with jerseys representing football clubs, national teams and sporting icons from around the world, creating a festive atmosphere that reflected the excitement surrounding the World Cup. Beyond the colours and friendly rivalry, the celebration encouraged students to embrace the values of discipline, perseverance and healthy competition through sport. The event was warmly received by both students and staff, adding a memorable and engaging twist to the regular school day.
Carmen, the class teacher of Standard 4A and Primary Coordinator, said the primary section brought plenty of creativity to the celebration, with each class organising different activities. "We celebrated Jersey Day here at Don Bosco, and the students are all dressed up in colourful jerseys supporting their favourite teams. We are actively encouraging the spirit of the FIFA World Cup, as we always believe in pushing our students to participate more in sports. Activities like these encourage teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. The boys of the fourth standard even designed their own jerseys and proudly displayed sketches of their unique creations," she said. Adding to the excitement, Teacher Wellon, the supervisor at Don Bosco High School, said, "We are all set to welcome the final of the FIFA World Cup. We are completely gripped by World Cup fever. In our school, we constantly promote sportsmanship, teamwork, and respect-these are the core values we live by here."
Leroy, the school's Physical Education teacher, wore his allegiance on his sleeve, declaring his support for Argentina. "Last time too, I supported the team, and they won. I support Messi, but truly, I support all the players, and I really want them to win this time around," he said with a smile. The students were equally passionate, turning the school grounds into a friendly battleground of predictions ahead of Sunday's final.
Young Tyson Sharma was convinced Argentina would lift the coveted trophy. "Their defence is absolutely great. Defeating Spain will be a piece of cake for them. Looking at their overall performance, they play with great passing, great coordination, and brilliant chemistry. They will defeat Spain 3-2, for sure. They are simply the best in the whole world, no doubt about it," he declared confidently.
On the other side is Shashwant Katre, who is backing Spain. "For the World Cup final, I am supporting Spain because they have young firepower, they create miracles on the pitch, and they have an absolutely strong defence. They have already beaten a strong team like France, and their defence has been saving them throughout the tournament. Although Lamine Yamal has not been in top form during this World Cup, I believe he will do an amazing job in the final."
Echoing the pro-Argentina sentiment, Rivan Chodankar believed it was a matter of destiny. "I am supporting the team because I think they deserve to win their fourth title. They are a wonderful team, and they have been practising for more than four hours every single day." Meanwhile, Enosh D'Souza remained confident that Spain would emerge victorious. "Spain's determination to win the World Cup is incredibly high. We will win," he said firmly.
