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UTSC Assassins crowned winners of Thaalam 2012

The winners of Thaalam 2012 UTSC Assassins (Pictures: CTYA/DEV)

The Canadian inter-university/college dance competition, Thaalam 2012, was held on June 24 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre’s John Bassett Theatre in Toronto.

The UTSC Assassins won against tough competition and lifted the coveted trophy, with the Oshawa Titans winning second place.

MacFlow Marauders, Montreal Maniacs, Ryerson Royalty and York/Seneca Huskies were the other teams that took part in the event, which had been sold out for days.

All participating teams showed passion, dedication, and hard work throughout their 12-15 minute dance performances. Over 230 dancers put in countless hours and effort into delivering their dance routines.

The performances involved multiple costumes, stage setups, and props that made each dance a spectacle to watch for the audience.

The event also saw the Canadian Tamil players of the Tamil Eelam F.A. recognised with honorary awards from the Canadian Tamil Youth Alliance.

Members of government from all levels and parties had words of encouragement and wishes to the youth. Member of parliament Mark Adler spoke on behalf of the government of Canada at the event.

   
 Ontario NDP President Neethan Shan  MP Mark Adler

The Minister for Training, Colleges and Universities, Glen Murray gave a speech encouraging the youth on behalf of the Ontario government.

“The Thaalam Dance Competition has demonstrated tremendous leadership and support to Tamil youth. Developing through art, it has helped them gain valuable knowledge and skills.

"I commend both CTYA and the Tamil Students Associations on their efforts to initiate a recreation and innovation centre in Toronto for everyone in the community.”

Mr. Shan Thayaparan had greetings for the youth on behalf of Ontario Progressive Conservative party leader Tim Hudak.

Ontario NDP President Neethan Shan, Markham Councillor Logan Kanapathipillai, and Markham School Board Trustee Juanita Nathan were also present at the event to give kind words and show their support for the youth.

The champions of Thaalam 2012 will get a chance to represent Canadian Tamil youth at Aadukalam 2012, the international dance competition organised by the Global Tamil Youth League.

This year’s award winners are:

Thaalam Champions : UTSC Assassins
Runner-up : Oshawa Titans
2nd Runner-up: York/Seneca Huskies
People’s Choice Award: Montreal Maniacs
Best Tamil Classical Dance Award: York/Seneca Huskies
Best Gaana Award: Tie between York/Seneca Huskies and UTSC Assassins
Best Western Dance Award: UTSC Assassins
Best Tamil Heritage Award: Tie between Oshawa Titans and MacFlow
Best Choreography Award: York/Seneca Huskies
Best Costume Award: Oshawa Titans
Best Portrayal of Theme Award: York/Seneca Huskies
Best Tamil Heritage Dance Award: Oshawa Titans
Best Sportsmanship Award: Oshawa Titans
Best Cheer Squad Award: Oshawa Titans

Runners-up Oshawa Titans

Thebana Gnanakrishnan delivering a speech on behalf of CTYA
Members of the Tamil Eelam FA squad
Brintha Skanthatheva of the Tamil Youth Organisation - United Kingdom

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