(LANKAPUVATH | COLOMBO) – The Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal Sudarshana Pathirana, in the capacity of President Air Force Sports Council (AFSC) and President Defence Services Sports Board (DSSB), graced the special felicitation ceremony that was held 20 June 2023 at Air Force Headquarters.
SLAF Sportsmen in the disciplines of Rugby, Wrestling, Boxing, Judo, Carrom, Beach Volleyball, Squash, Taekwondo and Cycling were felicitated during the ceremony. The personnel from these sports have performed outstandingly at National and International Sports Championships. Meanwhile, keen individuals who performed at National and International levels were also felicitated with special rewards by the President Air Force Sports Council. Apart from the special individuals, the SLAF Rugby Head Coach, Mr. Shamlie Afraz Nawas and Assistant Coach, Mr. Dilan Soyza, SLAF Boxing Coach, Corporal Ariyaratna MDB, the SLAF Wrestling Women’s Team Coach, Corporal Fernando KTW and the SLAF Beach Volleyball Coach, Mrs. BGS Gunasinghe, were appreciated by the Commander for their untiring dedication towards keeping the SLAF flag flying high.
During today’s ceremony, the Chairman of the SLAF Volleyball, Air Vice Marshal Nishantha Thilakasinghe and the Secretary of the SLAF Volleyball, Group Captain Chrishantha Fernando, were honored with the esteemed title of “Knight” by Air Marshal Sudarshana Pathirana, the President of the Air Force Sports Council and President of the Defence Services Sports Board. This recognition was bestowed upon them by the CISM Sports Council, acknowledging their unwavering commitment and exceptional efforts in ensuring the resounding success of the 4th CISM Beach Volleyball Championship 2023.
The event was attended by the Chief of Staff, Deputy Chief of Staff, Members of the Air Force Board of Management, Acting Director Sports, Chairmen, Secretaries, Managers and a cross-section of players in the respective Sports Disciplines.
