Jampot for Jess: Sports Meets

I had the privilege of attending quite a few sporting events at both Sujatha Vidyalaya and Ladies College throughout the last few weeks. I love watching women’s sports matches. Women’s sports are particularly special to see here in Sri Lanka because it is a country where women get the spotlight less than men ~ even more prevalently than what I am used to in the U.S.

At both schools, as well as most other schools throughout the country (or so I’ve been told), an annual sports meet is conducted every February. The sports meet provides an opportunity for all students to participate, regardless of their skill level. The event is drafted after the British tradition. There are four houses – each school has different names for their houses. The houses provide an outlet for students to come together for a common purpose. And the girls get pretty into it. Major house pride; even the teachers have a house from their school days and come out to represent.

Both meets were vastly different, but what I loved most about both sports meets was the excitement and friendly competition that surrounded them. For the few weeks leading up to the event, all the girls at school were busy practicing and organizing. The competitive attitude between houses was palpable, yet friendly.

I had a great time judging the girls basketball matches at Sujatha and attending other events. Sitting with the teachers and announcers at the Ladies College meet was quite an experience. It was fun to see the teachers let loose and have fun. The teachers’ relay race was especially entertaining.

Sujatha Vidyalaya