News
Breaking Waves: Arugam Bay’s Girls’ Surf Team Challenges Gender Norms in Sri Lanka
Arugam Bay, a vibrant surf hub in Sri Lanka’s south-eastern Ampara district, has long been a magnet for international surfers and home to global surf competitions. Now, it’s making headlines for a groundbreaking movement led by a group of determined women challenging traditional gender roles and cultural norms.
Over the past decade, a local girls’ surf team has emerged as a beacon of change, proving that surfing is not just a sport but a powerful tool for empowerment. The journey began with WL Shamali Sanjaya, now 36, who was one of the first women from her coastal village to embrace surfing in 2011. Inspired by the encouragement of an American family residing in the area, Shamali took the plunge, defying societal expectations in a community where women were traditionally confined to household roles or academics.
“There was this perception that surfing was not suitable for women in our culture,” Shamali shared from Baby Surf Point, a popular spot for beginners. “Even within my family, there were initial objections. But my maternal grandmother stood by me. I knew I wasn’t doing anything wrong, and I wasn’t afraid to stand my ground.”
Her fearless journey inspired other women from the Tamil and Sinhalese communities in the multi-ethnic district to pick up surfboards and ride the waves. By 2018, the growing interest led to the creation of the Arugam Bay Girls Surf Club, which became the first officially registered female surf club under the Surfing Federation of Sri Lanka.
This milestone represents more than just sports—it’s a movement reshaping societal attitudes and showcasing the transformative power of surfing. As these women continue to conquer waves and stereotypes, they’re setting an example for future generations in Sri Lanka and beyond.
Arugam Bay’s surf story is no longer just about its world-class waves—it’s about breaking barriers and making history.
Source: The Hindu
Colombo – June 23:
Kingswood College, Kandy, came from behind to secure a gritty 27-18 victory over Zahira College, Colombo, in a Week 3 clash of the Dialog Schools Rugby League 2025 played at Zahira College Grounds.
Despite trailing 11-10 at halftime, Kingswood regrouped and powered through in the second half, scoring 3 tries, 3 conversions, and 2 penalties to take home the win. Zahira fought valiantly with 2 tries, 1 conversion, and 2 penalties, but couldn’t match Kingswood’s consistency in the closing stages.
This win marks an important step for Kingswood in their league journey as they eye a stronger position in the 2025 standings.
Full-Time Score:
Kingswood College 27 (3T, 3C, 2P)
Zahira College 18 (2T, 1C, 2P)
📍 Venue: Zahira College Grounds, Colombo
📅 Dialog Schools Rugby League 2025 – Week 3
News
S. Thomas’ College Overpowers Mahanama in High-Scoring Rugby Battle – 50-35 Victory at Ratmalana
Colombo – June 23:
In a thrilling Week 3 encounter of the Dialog Schools Rugby League 2025, S. Thomas’ College, Mt. Lavinia, showcased attacking brilliance to defeat Mahanama College by 50 points to 35 at the Ratmalana Air Force Grounds.
The Thomians dominated early, taking a 26-14 lead at halftime, and continued their momentum into the second half, finishing with 7 tries, 6 conversions, and a penalty to seal the win. Mahanama College put up a strong fight, scoring 5 tries and converting all 5, but couldn’t close the gap in the second half.
This match marks a significant step for S. Thomas’ in the league standings as they aim to continue their campaign with confidence and consistency.
Full-Time Score:
S. Thomas’ College 50 (7T, 6C, 1P)
Mahanama College 35 (5T, 5C)
📍 Venue: Ratmalana Air Force Grounds
📅 Dialog Schools Rugby League 2025 – Week 3
Colombo, June 19 – Trinity College, Kandy delivered a commanding performance to defeat Thurstan College, Colombo by 48-19 in a high-energy Week 3 clash of the Dialog Schools Rugby League 2024, played at the Sugathadasa Stadium.
Trinity dominated throughout the match, crossing the try line eight times and securing four conversions. Their relentless attack and solid defensive play left little room for Thurstan to recover.
🏆 Match Summary – Trinity 48 (8T, 4C) vs Thurstan 19 (3T, 2C)
- Trinity College Scorers:
🔹 8 Tries
🔹 4 Conversions - Thurstan College Scorers:
🔹 3 Tries
🔹 2 Conversions
The game showcased Trinity’s physical strength, quick ball movement, and tactical excellence. Even as Thurstan fought back with three well-earned tries, the gap was too wide to close.
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