In March, the Foundation of Goodness proudly hosted its Sports Academy Felicitation Ceremony at the Sports Academy in Seenigama, which was a momentous occasion dedicated to recognising the remarkable achievements and relentless spirit of our young athletes. This event shines a spotlight on the dedication, discipline and drive of rural sporting talent who continue to challenge limitations and reach new heights.
At the heart of this celebration was a shared sense of pride and progress. The event acknowledged athletic excellence across cricket, swimming and table tennis and also honoured the efforts of the committed coaches who stand behind these rising stars. With nearly 940 boys and girls training across various disciplines at our Sports Academy, the ceremony served as a reminder of the power of opportunity and belief.
Cricket: Building Discipline and Dreaming Big
Cricket continues to be one of the most popular sports amongst our youth, offering a platform for leadership, teamwork and discipline. The ceremony honoured an incredible group of up-and-coming cricketers for their outstanding performances and dedication to the sport:
- S.Y. Chamathka Kavishan
- W.P. Ransara Deshan
- K.D.W.M.T.W.G. Ravindu Theekshana
- M. Tharun Damsith
- K. Lakith Neminda
- M. Shanuka Denuwan
- R.A. Pamod Himsara
- H.E. Kawshalya Saranga
- J.A. Sanjana Nethupul
- A. Suran Hirusha
- W.G. Deneth Aloka
- R.M. Senitha Dinudika
- M.M. Chamudu Dananjaya
- L.A. Dineth Oshada
- T. Sasan Nimandith
- P.M. Ravindu Dilsara
Behind each of these names lies a powerful story of personal growth, of children who began with passion and have grown into athletes who play with skill, strategy and sportsmanship. These players were trained under the watchful eyes of a committed coaching team:
- S. Lakmal Dissanayake – Head Coach
- K.A. Kelum Priyadarshana – Master in Charge
- Kavinda Sureshana – Assistant Coach
These coaches not only honed the boys’ skills but also instilled discipline, focus and confidence. Together, they have created an environment that nurtures potential and pushes boundaries.
Table Tennis: Breaking Barriers
While cricket may dominate headlines, sports like table tennis are gaining ground among our rural youth, thanks to dedicated mentoring and emerging stars. Four determined young athletes were honoured for their achievements:
- Lesanya Sethumdi
- Akain Bojith
- Naviru Nethsitha
- Kumeshi Rehansa
Each of these students has demonstrated both talent and commitment, paving the way for others in their community to explore the sport. Their achievements would not have been possible without the consistent guidance of their coach, Chaminda Roshan, whose efforts have helped build technical ability, a love for the game and a sense of belonging among players.
Swimming: Making Waves
Our swimming programme continues to grow from strength to strength, offering a life-saving skill and a new avenue for athletic pursuit. This year, we proudly recognised four dedicated swimmers:
- Abeeth Thenujaya Mahanama
- Sanuka Niveith
- Sanula Saveith
- Thewsas Dulsandu
Many of these young athletes had never been exposed to formal swimming lessons prior to joining the Foundation of Goodness’ Sports Academy. Today, they dive with confidence and compete with pride. Their progress is thanks to the expertise and support of our coaching team:
- S. Nilan Sajeeva
- U. Chandrasiri
- Nayomi Wijeratne
Their tireless dedication has transformed fear into confidence and curiosity into achievement.
More Than Medals
The Sports Felicitation Ceremony is about more than just awarding trophies. It’s about recognising the dreams, struggles and triumphs behind every name. It’s about showing young people from rural communities that their aspirations are valid and their futures are worth investing in.
As we look to the future, the Foundation of Goodness remains committed to strengthening grassroots sports and empowering the next generation through structured training, mentorship and opportunities.
Together, we continue to break barriers, build dreams, and celebrate the spirit of sport.
