A Word With The Sports Secretaries

What are the responsibilities you have as the sports secretary?

Aastha :As the sports secretary my job is to make sure that the fest runs smoothly. Every little detail is discussed in the Fest Organizing Body meets. The FOB is putting in a lot of effort for ARENA. And also, with Inter-BITS happening this year, the responsibilities have multiplied as we have to co-ordinate with the captains of other campuses of BITS and make sure they too have a memorable fest. We also have to co-ordinate with the teams for issues relating jerseys or equipment that they might require for practice.

Kritanshu: We also have to make sure that the FOB is on the same page regarding all matters and also co-ordinate with the president and the general secretary. Everyone is kept in a loop.

When does the actual work start for ARENA?

Aastha: The actual work starts 3 months in advance just after ATMOS is over.

Kritanshu: Also, it is harder to manage ARENA because we do not have a lot of time. There are comprehensive exams and semester end holidays which take up almost two-thirds of the time.

So this period is very hectic?

Aastha: Yes this is a very hectic time because we
have to look after the all the details and make sure there aren’t any
last minute glitches in organization. This year it is even more
challenging.

How is ARENA different this time?

Aastha: As I already said we have inter-BITS for the first time in our campus which is a huge deal. With players from other BITS campuses coming, ARENA is bigger than ever before. We have also planned a separate inauguration and closing ceremony only for BITSIANS. There will be a lot of excitement as we are having sister matches apart from the regular ones that will be going on.

Kritanshu: This year we have also planned 2 workshops. One is the self-defence workshop and the other is he power yoga workshop. We are hoping for a good response. For Pro-Shows also we have planned a lot but it would be better if it is revealed at the proper time.

So when did you start playing your sport?

Kritanshu: I have always had an inclination towards cricket and. I have played for my school team and also for the local club in my city.

What do you think sport teaches you?

Kritanshu: I think cricket is a very intelligent
game. You always have to be a step ahead of your opponent. Being a
bowler I have to think like the batsman and then outthink him. You also
feel happy when you are representing your college and you feel
responsible for the ten other players that are on your team when you
know that every ball you bowl affects the state of the match.

Anything you would like to say to the players and the general people in the campus?

Aastha: I really want to request the general public to come out and support the players in large numbers. Because when you see a large number if people cheering for you your morale boosts up and you believe in your ability to deliver. The players themselves are working day and night and if they have a cheering crowd they will be motivated to give their very best.

Kritanshu: To the players I would like to say ‘Give your very best’. You have worked so hard. And this is the moment to deliver.

What is it about ARENA that makes it unique?

Aastha: ARENA is a sports fest. Sports is something
that connects everyone regardless of their other inclinations. At ARENA
not only the players but also the non-playing community can have a lot
of excitement as they support their team and their sport. For example if
you are watching the final of the basketball game and it is a
nail-biting finish. The rush you feel in such times cannot be felt in
other fests. That’s why I would again request everyone to come out in
large numbers to support the players.

Interviewed by Raghav Challawar.