As a tribute to the nation, AUS student-athletes gathered in the Sports Complex and outdoor fields to celebrate the 42nd UAE National Day. Although it was a busy time for many AUS students amid their preparation for midterm exams, many came out to celebrate this festive occasion to participate in a series of sports tournaments and fitness challenges.

The Student Athletic and Recreation Department (SARD) of the Office of Student Affairs conducted sports tournaments for men and women in three-on-three basketball, volleyball, and men's cricket and soccer matches on November 26. There was plenty of exciting and dramatic action in the sports tournaments as the Leopards competed among themselves to claim the right to be the best on the day of celebration for the UAE.

The day of competition and celebration continued as the students made their way to the soccer field to participate in the fitness challenges. The fields had been transformed into an elaborate fitness obstacle course, many students looked on in amazement at the series of daunting tasks that had to be completed. After conquering obstacles such as the tire pull, the water jug carry, and hopping around in a potato sack while carrying a 5kg medicine ball, it was time to rally together for the parade.

In an act of allegiance to the UAE, the gathered students and staff marched towards the Sports Complex joyfully waving and wearing the nation's flag. The parade was led by Dr. Moza Al Shehhi, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs; Dr. Mohamed Helal, Director of Student Athletics and Recreation; and Dr. Munketh Taha, Director of Student Development and Organizations.

Dr. Al Shehhi graciously thanked all the AUS students in attendance for their participation in the day's tournaments and challenges. She also applauded their heartfelt show of dedication and loyalty to the UAE. She gave special recognition to student-athletes that had recently represented AUS in the highly competitive tournaments in Rome, Italy.

During the closing ceremony, Dr. Al Shehhi, along with Dr. Helal and Dr. Taha, handed out the medals to the winners of the various tournaments.