The President said many sports stars end their careers without giving anything back to the game, but Susanthika has taken the initiative to start this venture where she could use her experience and knowledge for the benefit of young athletes in the Island.
When Susanthika said she wanted to meet me a few weeks ago I thought it was like many others who come to me asking for favours and very rarely one comes to me to discuss about something for the benefit of the whole society. But when Susanthika asked my help for the proposed academy I was very much interested in the project because her willingness to serve the country by guiding the younger generation on the correct path, President Sirisena said.
The President assured the help of the government through the sports ministry for the proposed athletic academy. Fifteen years ago we celebrated her victory of winning an Olympic medal for Sri Lanka and today I decided to attend this event as a tribute paid by the Head of State after 15 years and we share the same feeling of victory he said.
President Sirisena also said that not only Susanthika, but anyone who achieves targets faces many obstacles, so what is important is to face them with courage like Susanthika herself did.
When I was the Health Minister I could not work independently and if I could, I would have settled most of the problems in the health sector. I know the field of sports was worse so I do not blame the former Sports Ministers for the set back we had in the field of sports during the recent past, President Sirisena said.
As the government we have had many discussions on how to improve the standards of sports in our country and I'm sure there is a necessity of a broader plan and effective strategies to develop sports in the island he said.
Parallel to the launch of Susanthika Jayasinghe Athletic Academy, launch of Susanthika Jayasinghe Sports Fund and ' My Story' autobiography of Susanthika was also held.
President Sirisena also recognized the renowned athletes Damyanthi Darsha, Shriyani Kulawansa, and Sugath Thillekaratne.
Sports Minister Dayasiri Jayasekara, Ports and Shipping Minister Arjuna Ranatunga, former Sports Ministers Mahindananda Aluthgamage, Gamini Lokuge, Ven. Athuraliye Rathana Thero, foreign diplomats, sports officials, celebrities and many distinguished guests were also present.
