Media Release

Dubai, May 22: A function was held recently at president of Mangalore Konkans, James Mendonca's villa to felicitate the men and women Mangalore Konkans throw ball team members. 85 people including players and their families and the Mangalore Konkan members attended the function.

The women's team has been in existence for the last 20 years and the mens team for the last six years. This is the first community sport promoted by Mangalore Konkans other than cultural and language activities.

The teams won several tournaments with very few losses and around 60 cups were won and showcased.

At the get-together all the cups were distributed to the past and present players in order of seniority. Few players who had played for the first match in January 2001 were present namely Jane Aranha, Cynthia Pinto, Elizabeth Noronha, Flavy D'Almeida and Irene Qudros, Nancy Qudros, Averyl Rodrigues and Marina Menezes being the new entrants. The present captain of the women's team Presilla D'Souza and the men's team captain Richard Pereira were also present.

James Mendonca welcomed the guests and thanked all the players for keeping the Mangalore Konkans name flying high by winning many tournaments.

Gilbert Aranha talked about the history of throw ball in the UAE. Presilla thanked the present team for their team work. Floyd D'Souza compered the event along with Roshan D'Silva.

The trophies were distributed to the players by James Mendonca, Lawrence Mendonca and Paul D'Almeida.

Live band Eagle by Melwyn D'Souza, Sabitha Mathia Mathias Rajesh Sequeira, Prashanth Sequeira, Ashith Pinto and D J Lancy D'Souza entertained the guests.