Written by: Rtr. Piyumi Liyanage

Amigo 3.0, organized by the Sports and Recreational Activities Avenue of the Rotaract Club of University of Sri Jayewardenepura, was all about fun, friendship, and team spirit. This year, the project had two exciting phases that brought students together through games and great memories.

Phase 1 – Beach Games at Panadura

The first phase of Amigo 3.0 took place on 15th February 2025 at Panadura Beach. It was full of energy, fun, and a little bit of competition too. There were 14 teams, and each team had 6 players, making a total of 84 participants.

The teams had cool names like Strangers, Scorpions, Hunters, Wave Riders, Stand storm, Ocean Force, Sea Hawks, Thunder Squad, Golden Tides, Wander warriors, Aqua Warriors, Beach Blasters, Amigos and Sun Chasers. Everyone took part in 4 exciting beach games:

         •       Save Your Balloons

         •       Dalgona Challenge (inspired by Squid Game)

         •       Balloon Rolling

         •       Scavenger Hunt (Beach Cleanup Game)

We provided refreshments for all participants to ensure they stay energized and enjoy the experience to the fullest. The refreshment menu featured a selection of delicious foods and beverages, carefully chosen to cater to diverse tastes and preferences.

The Scavenger Hunt was extra special because it was suggested by our main sponsor Parley. Parley is a global environmental group that works to protect the oceans. So, through this game, we also helped clean the beach while having fun. After the games, Team Strangers won 1st place and received Rs. 15,000, while Team Scorpions won 2nd place and received Rs. 10,000.

The day ended with an amazing DJ session and fireworks, making it a night to remember!

Phase 2 – Pickleball Tournament: Pickle Blast

The second phase of Amigo 3.0 was the Pickle Blast Tournament, held on 29th March 2025 at Pipinya Pickleball, Moratuwa. This was a different kind of sport, and everyone was excited to try it.

There were 10 teams including Power Puffs, Girl Gang, Unity Squad, Chill Crew, Royal, Top Guys, Cool Heads, The Boys, Chill Zone and Legends. They played under 3 categories:

         •Girls’ Category: Power puffs won and received Rs. 5,000

         •Boys’ Category: Cool Heads won and received Rs. 5,000

         •Mixed Category: Chill Crew won and received Rs. 5,000

The matches were competitive but friendly, and everyone had a great time. This phase was sponsored by Power Hand Plantation and Coca-Cola Company, who supported us to make it a successful event.

A Project to Remember

Amigo 3.0 wasn’t just about games. It was about working as a team, making new friends, and having fun while learning. We also learned to take care of the environment and stay active.

We also managed to cover multiple Sustainable Development Goals through Amigo 3.0 as follows:

1. Good Health and Well-Being (SDG 3) – Through fun physical activities like beach games and Pickleball, the event encouraged students to stay active and improve their physical and mental well-being.

2. Quality Education (SDG 4) – Even though it was a fun event, participants learned about teamwork, sportsmanship, leadership, and caring for the environment – valuable life lessons beyond books.

3. Gender Equality (SDG 5) – The event had categories for girls, boys, and mixed teams, promoting equal opportunities for everyone to participate and enjoy.

4. Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6) & Life Below Water (SDG 14) – The beach cleanup game (Scavenger Hunt), supported by Parley, helped raise awareness about keeping oceans clean and protecting marine life.

5. Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17) – The success of Amigo 3.0 was made possible by teamwork and strong partnerships with sponsors like Parley, Power Hand Plantation, and Coca-Cola.

This project brought smiles, excitement, and unforgettable memories to everyone who joined. Amigo 3.0 may be over, but the joy and friendships it created will last forever.

Until next time… Cheers Amigo!

Graphic Design by: Rtr. Dinithi Yasasmi