Football, Live It With Love!!

The Youth Football Association c/o The Centenary Stadium, Ta’ Qali, ATD 4000, Malta

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info@theyouthfa.org.mt

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2023-24 was another eventful season for the Youth

Football Association.

Grassroots and youth development remained at the very heart of our mission with hundreds of children participating in our festivals, held regularly over the past 10 months. The passion of our young football hopefuls coupled with the dedication of the people managing our youth nurseries, all the volunteers, coaches and parents give us added motivation to step up our efforts in fostering love for the game among our children in sync with our Football, Live It With Love!! motto.

Indeed, following the launch of the first edition of our digital magazine, Football, Live It With Love!!, we are pleased to introduce the second issue. Encouraged by the very positive feedback for this initiative, we are doing our utmost to produce a high-level magazine which serves as a compelling source of information on grassroots football, the key projects and events of our youth nurseries and the mission of the Youth FA, enhanced by uplifting stories of homegrown players who are making the country proud.

Haley Bugeja, regarded as one of the most talented female footballers in Europe, is a shining example of a Maltese youngster who is fulfilling her potential, spending last season with Italian

President: Norman Darmanin Demajo

General Secretary: Stephanie Rocco

Vice-President/CEO: Joe Cassar

Youth FA Council Members: Carmel Bugeja, Joe Mallia, Francis Zammit, Joe Baldacchino, Mark Pullicino, Simon Spiteri, Paul Vella

Honorary President: Fr Hilary Tagliaferro

Honorary Members: Alfred Cacciottolo, Joe Micallef

Editor: Kevin Azzopardi

Photos: Domenic Aquilina, Joe Borg, Stephen Gatt, Archives, Malta Football Association

Serie A club Inter FC Women and starring in Malta’s memorable campaign in the UEFA Women’s Nations League.

In Haley’s own words, “I started playing at the young age of five, I was always running around the house with a ball at my feet since I could walk”.

Another interesting interview sheds light on the football journey of the Mbong brothers, Joseph and Paul, who have come through the youth ranks at local clubs to establish themselves as key players for the Malta national team.

Expressing his pride at representing Malta, Joseph said: “It’s a country that has given me a lot so I’m proud to be able to give something back by doing my utmost on the football pitch.” His younger sibling Paul echoed the same sentiments… “I was born here and to represent your country in every age-group is the best feeling you can experience as a player.”

As in the first edition, the magazine also contains articles about initiatives and good practices by our youth nurseries, from participation in overseas tournaments and events organised locally to commendable projects such as autism-friendly football sessions for children and youths.

The well-attended seminar commemorating 40 years of volunteering in the youth football sector, held last November, is also featured in this magazine which has been completed in time for the 2023-24 General Assembly where the Youth FA will not only review its activities for the past season but also map out its plan for the coming years, emphasising participation and inclusion, support to youth nurseries, social responsibility and the well-being of our children and youths.

While we hope that you enjoy reading the second issue of Football, Live It With Love!!, we are immensely grateful for your unrelenting commitment and dedication towards grassroots and youth football.

HALEY BUGEJA isThekidspecial!

‘Football makes me happy’

Long hailed as one of the most exciting prospects in women’s football across Europe, Haley Bugeja is living up to her promise. She is a shining example of a young Maltese player who has progressed through the youth ranks locally to reach a very high level… and at 20, the best years are ahead of her! Kevin Azzopardi caught up with Bugeja at the end of her first season with Inter FC Women in the Italian Serie A Femminile…

Your early football memories… when did you start playing and what attracted you to the game?

I started playing at the young age of five, I was always running around the house with a ball at my feet since I could walk. My older brother used to play football and it definitely had an effect on me.

Talk us through your upbringing and the people who have influenced you most –family, school, football…

I am lucky to have a very supportive and understanding family who backed me in everything I did and all the choices I’ve made. My teachers at school were always supportive of my passion for football and at the age of 13, I got into the National School of Sport and that ensured that I stayed on the right track.

Did you practise any other sport other than football?

Football was and has always been my go-to since I was five. For me, there was no alternative as I loved the sport so much.

“It’s difficult being the only girl in a large group of boys but I feel like that experience moulded my character into what I have become today”

Women’s football has come a long way but how was the situation when you started playing as a young girl? What were the main challenges you faced?

I remember at the time there were barely any young girls playing and in fact I was the only girl who continued to play football constantly between the ages of 5 and 11 at my local club. Obviously, it was never easy… in fact it’s difficult being the only girl in a large group of boys but I feel like that experience moulded my character into what I have become today.

What are the best memories from the years spent at nursery level?

My best memories were probably the surge of excitement I’d get when a game was coming up at the weekend and I felt as if I was playing in the Champions League final no matter who the opponents were.

Looking back, how has the coaching and education you received at nursery level affected your career progression?

I feel like I was incredibly lucky to have had coaches who believed in me even when I was playing with the boys. Along with that belief, they also conveyed a sense of freedom and independence which enabled me to be myself on the football pitch.

Haley Bugeja played for Mġarr United in the local women’s competitions before she joined Sassuolo, her first foreign club, in 2020.

“This is the biggest sense of pride I’ve felt throughout my life so far. To wear those colours, to see more and more people coming to the stadium, to have our families watching on whilst we represent our country is incredibly special and indescribable to a certain extent”

What made you enjoy football the most as a child?

The pure joy and excitement during any sort of football activity, whether it was a game, training or just watching a match on television. It just made me happy.

School and education… are these important priorities in your life in parallel with your football career?

School will always be important and although I’ve always been so obsessed with football that I didn’t give school enough importance, I understand to this day that these two (physical activity and education) should go hand in hand.

You have already played several games for the women’s national team… what does it mean to represent your country?

This is the biggest sense of pride I’ve felt throughout my life so far. To wear those colours, to see more and more people coming to the stadium, to have our families watching on whilst we represent our country is incredibly special and indescribable to a certain extent.

PHOTO: JOE BORG

“Dream big, follow your heart in everything that you do and the sky is the limit as long as you have the right commitment and attitude”

Best moments of your football career so far, at club and national team level…

My debuts for the three foreign clubs (Sassuolo, Orlando Pride and Inter) I’ve been with always stand out for the strong emotions I experienced in the days leading up to that occasion.

And the first goal is always one you’ll remember. And the same applies to the national team, stepping out with the rest of the team for the first time after so much hard work.

What motivated your ambition to pursue a career overseas?

My motivation came from seeing how big women’s football was getting and understanding that the opportunity was there and all it needed was to be grasped. So I decided to take on the challenge and see where it takes me.

You have just ended your first season with Inter. How would you describe this experience so far?

Fruitful for sure… being around some great players and people, and the last few months I’d say have really brought out my potential as I feel more at home the more time passes.

What are the demands and benefits of playing professional football in a different country?

The demands are high as it’s a physical and mentally gruelling challenge to be at 100 per cent every single day and feeling the pressure to perform. But the benefits outweigh the demands personally as it helps me realise how much I’m growing and maturing as a football player but also as a person.

What is your advice to all the young Maltese players at nursery level who look up to players like you?

Dream big, follow your heart in everything that you do and the sky is the limit as long as you have the right commitment and attitude.

↓ HALEY BUGEJA

Heroes, Favourite Stuff and More...

Who were the players, local and foreign, you looked up to growing up?

Locally, it was Michael Galea as he would score on a weekly basis for my hometown club. The foreign players I admired while growing up were Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres of Liverpool.

What is your biggest ambition in football?

To win a major trophy at club level and make it to a major tournament with the National Team.

Your favourite club… Inter currently followed by Liverpool.

Your favourite shirt number… 7 and 21 as I wear both for club and country.

Your favourite playing position…

As a winger on either side.

Your room-mates with the national team… It varies from one international window to another but it’s normally between three… Patricia (Ebejer), Alexandra (Gatt) and Maya (Cachia).

Do you like cartoons? If yes, who was – or – is your favourite character?

Avatar from Avatar the Last Airbender or Spongebob.

Favourite Movie… Rocky

Favourite Music… any single with nice lyrics that I can relate to.

Favourite Food… Sushi

Full name Haley Bugeja

Date of birth 5 May 2004 (age 20)

Position Winger/Forward

Team information

CURRENT TEAM

Inter Number 7

YOUTH CAREER –2018 Mġarr United

Hobbies… Reading, paddleboarding

Facebook, Instagram or Tik Tok?

Instagram

SENIOR CAREER Years Team 2018–2020 Mġarr United 2020–2022 Sassuolo 2022–2023 Orlando Pride 2023– Inter

INTERNATIONAL CAREER

2020- Malta 29 appearances (19 goals)

Mbong brothers driven by making family and country proud!

In 2020, Joseph and Paul Mbong became the first brothers in 35 years to play together for the Maltese national team. Joseph, at 26 the older of the two, has already earned 56 caps for Malta and is a key player for Ħamrun Spartans, playing a prominent role in the club’s successful run to the BOV Premier League title this season. The 22-year-old Paul, who turns out for Birkirkara, has made 21 appearances for the national team with the two siblings upholding their family’s football tradition after their late father Essien made a name for himself as one of the best midfielders during his time with Hibernians. Kevin Azzopardi spoke to the Mbong brothers who are proud of their Nigerian lineage but are also deeply attached and committed to the Malta national team…

You come from a football family, your father Essien was a very respected footballer with Hibernians, and you both play football. Has football always been a constant feature in your life?

Joseph Mbong: Yes, football has been an important part of my life from a very young age. Paul Mbong: As kids, we grew up playing football. We also watched a lot of football on television, especially matches from the English Premier League. I mean I always remember myself playing football at the park… I didn’t join a nursery at a very young age, for me it was all about

enjoying football at the swings or in the streets but this helped me a lot as I often played with older boys. When I joined the U-9s at Hibernians, I found it easier to play at the nursery.

Tell us a bit about your upbringing as two among three siblings in a football-loving family residing in a foreign country initially...

Joseph: We always loved the game. We used to play in a garden and the recreational park (swings) in Marsascala, sometimes even barefooted when there wasn’t football during the summer, and it

didn’t matter if we didn’t have a proper ball to play with, we would just make do with a plastic bottle. Paul: My childhood was very nice. We were brought up in a Christian family, we used to go to church on Sundays and I also have fond memories of the years I spent at school. As time passed, football came more and more into the picture and I always looked forward to playing. That is the aspect of my childhood I remember most.

Did you play any other sport other than football?

Joseph: Not professionally but I would always get selected for any type of sport outing at school. Paul: Football was the only sport for me – I mean it’s a known fact that in Nigeria, people are mostly keen on football, so that probably had an influence.

How do you look back on your time playing at nursery level?

Joseph: I learned a lot about the game during my youth career. I feel like I always had the talent but I learned how to maximise it by going into detail thanks to the guidance I received from different coaches, and by always being willing to learn from everyone.

Paul: The youth nursery – it moulds you as a player, it prepares you to become a professional footballer. Hibernians helped me a lot and words are not enough to thank them. Coach Keith Darmanin transformed my game when I was 11, he had come in as a new coach and made me an important player in the team as he recognised my potential. When I reached Under-16 level, I received a call from Thane Micallef who was working on a very interesting project. As a young player, you just want to play with the best, also when it comes to training and the whole club structure – that was the time when I decided to join Birkirkara. Thane helped me to take my game to the next level. I’m also very grateful to the group of parents who had their sons playing with the Hibernians nursery while I was there… we had a very happy upbringing but there were also times when, as a family, we encountered some financial issues but they helped me a lot during difficult times.

Paul Mbong playing for Birkirkara in the BOV Premier League.

Who are the persons that have had the biggest influence on your football careers so far?

Joseph: My father for sure, he took me to my first football session. I played football because I loved it but I also wanted to be like him and make him proud.

Paul: Keith Darmanin. There is also Thane Micallef and Jeffrey Ghigo who used to pick me up together with a guy named David Vella. They used to drive me to training as they also lived in Marsascala. Of course, all the parents who helped me, even financially, to travel with the team at the time for tournaments played overseas. When I grew up, there was Thane, Malachy Portelli, Mark Bondin and Herman Bugeja who also helped me a lot, from a coaching perspective, to make the step-up to the first team at Birkirkara.

Growing up and eventually playing for Malta. What does it mean for you to represent the country?

Joseph: Being able to play for Malta means a lot to me since I grew up here, in this culture, and went to school here. I mean Malta has been central to all the things that I’ve done in my life so far. It’s a country that has given me a lot so I’m proud to be able to give something back by doing my utmost on the football pitch.

“Being

able to play for Malta means a lot to me since I grew up here, in this culture, and went to school here. I mean Malta has been central to all the things that I’ve done in my life so far. It’s a country that has given me a

lot so I’m proud to be able to give something back by doing my utmost on the football pitch”

Paul: It means a lot. As you know, I was born here and to represent your country in every age-group is the best feeling you can experience as a player. Seeing all those people coming together to support the national team, fans who normally support different clubs, and watching them celebrate together is very emotional for me.

Being promoted to the senior national team elicited feelings that I can’t even describe… when I saw my name on the list for the first time, under Devis Mangia, and making my debut in the UEFA Nations League game away to Faroe Islands in 2020… those are unforgettable moments I will cherish forever.

In recent years, you have had more opportunities to play together for the national team. How does it feel and does it add to the sense of responsibility knowing that your brother is in the same team?

Joseph: I mean growing up, you could realise that there is potential but to make the grade with the national team is not easy, and to play alongside your brother is something that is even more difficult. I’m proud that we’ve stayed grounded and took the right decisions when we were younger. And it does add to the responsibility sometimes since I’m the big brother but Paul is bright, he can distinguish right from wrong, so he makes things easy for me.

Joseph Mbong (right) in one of his early games with the national team.

Paul: It’s a very nice feeling to play in the same team as your brother. On the pitch, you have to concentrate on your own performance, you need to focus on your own game, especially when playing for Malta at international level where the standards and demands are so high. When I score, I always celebrate with my brother – we have a very strong bond and gazing up towards the stands, and seeing my mother and brother makes me really proud.

What made you enjoy football the most as a child and teenager and, perhaps, was there anything you would have done differently?

Joseph: The bond between team-mates, playing two-three day tournaments and the freedom in having no pressure.

Anything I would have done differently? Maybe do a bit more extra or making sure I’m the hardest worker every day.

Paul: I played football for fun… after school you are eager to meet your friends and start a game. I’m a bad loser, even when we just played for fun at the park… this is a good thing but it can also have negative consequences at times.

What are the best moments at club and national team level as well as the biggest challenges you have faced so far?

Joseph: Playing for Malta against England at Wembley in November last year, and scoring two crucial goals to help Ħamrun Spartans advance in the UEFA Europa Conference League.

Paul: With Birkirkara, the best feeling was when we won the FA Trophy last year (season 2022-23) – at the start of the season, we didn’t do well in the friendlies and people were saying that the team might face a fight to avoid relegation but we defied the odds. It was sweeter as we silenced our critics. Being named MFPA Best Young Forward in 2021 also gave me a boost as it put me in the limelight.

As for the challenges, two years ago I had a difficult season. In my second year with Birkirkara’s senior team, I was not playing as much as I wished – in these circumstances, you have to be mentally strong. You are enjoying a good career, Birkirkara have high standards, they are one of the top teams in the country but when you are struggling, you may face issues. That year was very difficult for me but then (Giovanni) Tedesco came and he really pushed me. He used

to talk to me a lot about the importance of taking positive steps and improve my all-round game.

With the national team, my debut was a memorable occasion as was my first goal… when we were winning 1-0 against Ukraine last year – it was a great feeling.

Do you harbour ambitions of playing overseas?

Joseph: I think every little footballer’s dream from a young age is to play abroad for a top team. So, yes of course (it’s an ambition).

Paul: Everyone knows that playing abroad is my main career ambition. I know it’s difficult, especially coming from a small country like Malta where football is not rated as highly as in other top European countries. I mean it’s like clubs second guess when they consider signing a player from a small country but I’m confident that, one day, it will happen and once it does, I will not look back!

Describe your typical day...

Joseph: Wake up and prepare breakfast... normally it’s two eggs on toast.

After that I drop one of my sons at the play school, followed by my stretch-and-core routine and take my pre-training snack, depending if I’m going for a coffee. I then head to training, starting with a 30-minute work-out at the gym and prepare for training. Heading out on the pitch for the session and after training drive back home and eat something light. In the evening, I like to chill, watch television and spend time with my family.

“Stay humble in your best times and keep working during your worst periods. Always listen to your coaches and give your maximum in every session” – Joseph Mbong

Paul: At present, I wake up around 7 a.m., take something light for breakfast and go to training. When we finish, I normally join my friends for a coffee before heading back home. In the evening, I usually watch a football game.

“When you are at the nursery and you come to that stage where you are very close to making it into the senior squad, people start to pay more attention but always keep your feet on the ground”

– Paul Mbong

What is your advice to all the young Maltese players at nursery level who look up to players like you?

Joseph: Stay humble in your best times and keep working during your worst periods. Always listen to your coaches and give your maximum in every session.

Paul: When you are at the nursery and you come to that stage where you are very close to making it into the senior squad, people start to pay more attention but always keep your feet on the ground. Also, take the advice of the older players… I played with the likes of Roderick Briffa, Michael Mifsud and Ryan Fenech and I tried to take everything on board. Be humble, always be ready to listen and work hard. When I was young, I tried not to do silly things and focus on my football and that is the best advice I can give to up-andcoming players.

Joseph Mbong signs autographs for schoolchildren in the build-up to the UEFA Under-17 Championship in 2014.

Up, Close and Personal...

Who is the faster of the two?

Joseph: I think I’m faster but we’ve never raced!

Paul: Joseph.

Who is the better defender?

Joseph: Definitely me since I play in a different role and have to defend more.

Paul: Joseph.

And the better scorer?

Joseph: Probably Paul. Paul: Me.

Your room-mates with the club and the national team…

Joseph: I stay with Juan Corbalan when we’re with the club, and Paul with the national team.

Paul: At club level, it’s usually Yannick Yankam, who is now playing in the United States, and Amara Sylla. With the national team, my roommate is Joseph.

Your best friends in football…

Joseph: Juan Corbalan.

Paul: Shaun Dimech, Amara Sylla and Andreas Vella.

Joseph Essien Mbong

Date of birth 15 July, 1997 (age 26)

Place of birth Nigeria

Position Wing-back

Team information CURRENT TEAM Ħamrun Spartans

YOUTH CAREER Hibernians

SENIOR CAREER Years Team 2014–2020 Hibernians 2017 → Inter Zaprešić (loan) 2020– Ħamrun Spartans 2022–2023 → Ironi Kiryat Shmona (loan)

INTERNATIONAL CAREER 2018– Malta 56 appearances (3 goals)

↓ MBONG BROTHERS

Epic match you’ve played in...

Joseph: Malta vs Faroe Islands when we won 2-1 at home in a Euro 2020 qualifier back in 2019… it was one of my earliest matches with the national team.

Paul: The 2022 World Cup qualifier, Malta vs Cyprus, when we won 3-0 at home.

Who were the players you looked up to as a teenager?

Joseph: Cristiano Ronaldo and Ronaldinho –The first for his work ethic and the second for his skill and joy while playing football.

Paul: Andrè Schembri and Cristiano Ronaldo.

What is your biggest ambition in football?

Joseph: To be remembered as one of the best.

Paul: To play abroad.

Your favourite foreign club…

Joseph: Manchester United Paul: Manchester United

Your favourite shirt number…

Joseph: Number 7

Paul: 8 of my father

Your favourite playing position…

Joseph: Right wing Paul: No.10, behind the striker

Favourite Movie…

Joseph: Goal

Paul: School Dance

Favourite Music…

Joseph: Hip Hop and R&B

Paul: Hip Hop and R&B

Favourite Food…

Joseph: Fufu and okro soup – traditional Nigerian food

Paul: Pasta

Facebook, Instagram or Tik Tok?

Joseph: Instagram by a mile

Paul: Tik Tok

Paul Mbong

Date of birth

2 September, 2001 (age 22)

Place of birth Malta

Position Forward

Team information CURRENT TEAM Birkirkara

YOUTH CAREER Hibernians Birkirkara

SENIOR CAREER Years Team 2019– Birkirkara

INTERNATIONAL CAREER 2020– Malta 21 appearances (1 goal)

Paul Mbong in action for Malta.

Hundreds of children from 39 nurseries participate in seven U11 events

Fun, fair play and the enthusiasm of the participating children are the hallmarks of the festivals hosted by the Youth Football Association under its Enjoying The Game pillar.

A total of nine festivals, seven for Under-11 teams and two in the Under-7 category, were held at the Birżebbuġa Football Ground during season 2023-24.

The Under-11 festivals are played on a 7-vs-7 basis (one goalkeeper and six outfield players) in accordance with the guidelines of the Malta FA Technical Centre. Every team plays three

Enjoying The Game Festivals growing in popularity

“Around 470 children from 39 nurseries participated in the U-11 festivals which concluded on Saturday, 27th April, 2024”

matches of 15 minutes each with two games played simultaneously. The Under-7 festivals are played on 3-vs-3 basis and the match duration is 10 minutes.

Around 470 children from 39 nurseries participated in the U-11 festivals which concluded on Saturday, 27th April, 2024.

Stephanie Rocco, the Youth FA General Secretary, said: “We are very pleased with the turnout for the Under-11 festivals. These events are still very popular among our youth nurseries and their young members as reflected by the level of interest and enthusiasm shown throughout.

“Primarily, we want our children to have fun and enjoy playing football during these festivals as the fun element is fundamental. These events also enable the children to play against different teams in this important phase of their development process under the guidance of their dedicated coaches.”

The Youth FA wishes to convey its appreciation to the volunteers who regularly help out during the activities organised by the Association, the youth nurseries, coaches, parents and Birżebbuġa Windmills Nursery for providing the venue for these festivals.

THE COACHES’ VIEW

‘FOCUS SHOULD BE ON FUN AND DEVELOPMENT’

When it comes to the younger agegroups, ensuring that the children have fun must rank as one of the primary aims as it’s important that we foster the love for the game. Once these children enjoy playing football, we can build on that by focusing on the learning aspect where, in a sporting environment, the children can gradually express all the things they have worked on together with their coaches in the preceding days and weeks.

“ ”

“Ultimately, and this was evident across all the groups who participated in these festivals, the children enjoy themselves when they play in this type of environment. There is always an element of competition as this occurs automatically when you are playing a game of football between teams – you don’t have to tell the children anything, they would want to win the match.

“However, at the same time, there is not that excessive competitive element which can hinder their performance because of fear or pressure. Balance is very important and the Youth FA is doing a good job to attain this objective.

↓ JOHN VELLA MC INTYRE

THE COACHES’ VIEW

‘CHILDREN EXPRESS THEIR TALENT IN A POSITIVE WAY’

First and foremost, this is a great opportunity for children to play on a good pitch with adequate facilities. Secondly, it’s good for them to be able to play football in a tranquil environment without too much pressure to chase results and the need to win at all costs. These factors encourage the coaches and the players to play the game in a healthy environment which is conducive to talent“Whendevelopment. the atmosphere is like this, without that added pressure, the children automatically express their talent in a positive way. My appeal is to provide more opportunities like these where the environment is not dominated by shouting and that win-at-all-costs mentality because at the end of the day, the most important thing in these age-groups is to help the children develop their talent.

“You could see here that, although there were teams that won and others that lost, ultimately the children had fun for all the positive reasons I have mentioned.

↓ SILVAN CISCALDI HEAD

2024 U9 National Festival

Hundreds of children from over 30 youth nurseries graced the pitch of the Centenary Stadium for the Youth FA’s annual Under-9 Festival, held over the weekend of 18-19 May, 2024. The overcast weather failed to dampen the spirits of the young participants who were only focused on one thing – having fun playing the game they love. Those sentiments were also shared by the Special Olympics Team who took part in this festival, earning the admiration of all present with their dedication and enthusiasm. Youth FA photographer Stephen Gatt was there to capture the best moments…

VOLUNTEERS IN THE SPOTLIGHT DURING WELL-ATTENDED YOUTH FA SEMINAR

Workshops yield insights into the realities and challenges faced by nurseries

Commemorating 40 years of volunteering in the youth football sector, the Youth Football Association organised a half-day seminar on the challenges facing volunteers working at nursery level. The well-attended seminar was held on 25th November, 2023, at the Caritas Community Centre in Ħamrun.

Since its inception back in 1982, the Youth FA has always recognised and supported the contribution of volunteers, especially at youth football nurseries. The vast majority of the officials and administrators in youth football work on a voluntary basis and it is precisely for this reason that the Association decided to mark its 40th anniversary by hosting a seminar which also included workshops that provided interesting insights into the current situation as well as the challenges in the volunteering sector.

Norman Darmanin Demajo, President of the Youth FA, summed up the objectives.

“We are celebrating an important milestone, 40 years of youth football in Malta,” Darmanin Demajo said. “The purpose of the seminar was to look at the backbone of this achievement… the volunteers. I personally believe that volunteering is still very much alive but clearly times have changed and the challenges are greater.”

The Youth FA President explained that the idea to discuss the past, present and future of

volunteering in youth football originated from responses to a questionnaire with 95 per cent of the youth nurseries identifying the lack of administrators as one of the main difficulties.

WORKSHOPS

The workshops generated very interesting discussions about the challenges being faced by nurseries to recruit and retain volunteers, and other prevailing issues. Government incentives to attract more volunteers in sports, perceptions about the clubs’ financial situation, parents’ education, due diligence, and the need to increase the number of qualified educators were some of the key points reported from the workshops.

The seminar was supported by the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector and the Ministry for Inclusion, Voluntary Organisations and Consumer Rights through the Voluntary Organisations Project Scheme.

VOLUNTEERING AND VALUES

Hon. Julia Farrugia Portelli, Minister for Inclusion, Voluntary Organisations and Consumer Rights, said: “This is the beautiful mission of volunteers. Can we imagine our villages without the fundamental input of our youth football nurseries? A nation without volunteers is a nation devoid of values.”

The seminar was also addressed by Malta FA President Bjorn Vassallo who noted that the feedback from the workshops is very relevant in the current administrative context in youth

football as well as at senior level, both for men and women. “The Youth FA’s mission is essentially the same as it was 40 years ago but the concepts have changed because the world has changed, resulting in different realities,” Vassallo said.

Vassallo said the Malta FA will be initiating discussions with the Youth FA and other stakeholders about a reform of the youth nurseries and academies, focusing on important aspects such as requisites and licensing.

The keynote speaker at the seminar was Liam Mc Groarty, Strategic Development Manager at UEFA who has a wealth of experience in the volunteering sector.

Mc Groarty provided an overview of the volunteering situation in Europe, highlighting examples and best practices in different countries, and how this matter is being approached at club, national and government level.

PHOTOS:

NURSERY FOCUS

LIJA FC NURSERY HOSTS CHRISTMAS AND CARNIVAL EVENTS

The Lija FC Youth Nursery organised two successful events in the space of two months for the very first time this season. The events brought together many children, especially from the communities of Ħal-Lija and nearby L-Iklin, parents and stakeholders from the nursery. A team of dedicated people, mostly volunteers and coaches, worked together to create a unique opportunity and a wonderful atmosphere for the benefit of the nursery kids, their parents and the wider community.

The Christmas event, held between the 21st and 26th December, 2023, was co-ordinated by the nursery’s grassroots head coach, Clint Tabone. The school administration allowed us to use the school yard to set up a fully-fledged Christmas market with all types of stalls.

At the adjacent Lija FC training grounds, a number of tournaments were played with several other nurseries accepting our invitation to take part. A team of football stars and celebrities were also in attendance to encourage the young participants, including former Malta captain Andrè Schembri, Malta U-21 coach Ivan Woods, former Malta coach Ray ‘Zazu’ Farrugia and Stephen Grima, together with Malta women’s national team players Haley Bugeja and Maya Lucia among others. Tournaments were held on a daily basis with the participation of no fewer than 15 football nurseries.

A similar event was held on Carnival weekend between the 10th-11th February, 2024. A large camelot castle was set up in the main training grounds together with a large slide for the kids to have fun. Food stalls were erected and a large stage for entertainment was also installed thanks to the help of the volunteers. Free entertainment was provided with the head coaches and personnel

from the administration wearing farm animals’ costumes to create a colourful atmosphere. Special zumba classes were also organised in the nearby school yard.

Ten nurseries participated in the festivals and a carnival party was held at Villa Lija on Sunday, 11th February.

The Mayors of Iklin and Ħal-Lija attended these events and supported them in the best way. They addressed the guests and nursery kids, encouraging participation in all events, tournaments and activities prepared while expressing their satisfaction at the progress of the Lija FC Nursery.

PENALTY SHOOT-OUT

On 19th March, 2024 (a public holiday), the Lija FC Nursery organised another event with the collaboration of junior and senior nursery coaches.

The head coach together with the administration started planning this event one month ahead and the penalty shoot-out was also promoted on the club’s socials. Although such events are held regularly, this year the penalty shoot-out was bigger and better. Medals and trophies were also handed out at the end of this successful event which also served as a fund-raiser for our nursery.

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

On Saturday, 30th March, eve of Easter Sunday, our academy’s Under-7 age group paid a visit to the elderly people residing at Casa Francesco. Our youngsters shared joy and warm Easter greetings whilst donating fruits to the residents.

NURSERY FOCUS

MELLIEĦA SPORTS CLUB

Autism-friendly coaching sessions

At Mellieħa Sports Club Football School, we have embarked on a journey to coach athletes on the autism spectrum. This initiative, which began in 2018, continues to expand within our club’s portfolio. Initially, this project was a smallscale one, mostly intended for individuals who faced obstacles in accessing sport. With the backing of the club’s committee, coach Sherif Sleiman is leading this project, ensuring its continuous growth and appeal to a broader audience.

While autism can pose challenges in various life aspects, including sport, our project opens the doors for these young people to harness their unique strengths and abilities. We believe that awareness is a crucial component of our mission and to this end, we have introduced a group of youth club footballers to the task of coaching these young athletes. This approach not only raises awareness among the next generation but also addresses the challenges encountered by individuals with autism.

Our sessions are designed to aid these athletes in their physical activities and skills necessary for their daily routines. They may possess unique strengths, such as attention to detail, pattern recognition, or memory skills, which can be advantageous in sports, enhancing their precision, focus, or strategic thinking.

Participation in sports fosters inclusivity and diversity, dismantling barriers and challenging stereotypes about autism and sports.

By recognising and accommodating the unique needs of these athletes, we create inclusive and supportive environments that allow them to develop their skills, boost self-esteem, and cultivate social connections.

As awareness and acceptance of autism in sports continue to rise, more individuals will have the chance to engage in sports and reap the numerous benefits of our club’s initiative.

LINK TO VIDEO FEATURE https://youtu.be/uCu7mQBY85c?si=KGPr6M2cCIDanlX

NURSERY FOCUS

MQABBA FC YOUTH NURSERY

Enriching experience at the Carnevale di Avola International Tournament

Mqabba FC Youth Nursery showcased their talent and sportsmanship at the XIX Carnevale di Avola International Football Tournament 2024, held between the 10th and 12th February in Sicily. The tournament featured the enthusiastic participation of our boys across various age categories, namely Under-8 (born 2016/17), Under-12 (born 2012/2013) and Under-13 (Born 2011/2012), resulting in three days filled with pure football joy, teamwork, and indelible memories.

The contingent was led by Antoine Sciberras as Administrator at the Mqabba FC Youth Nursery together with the support of coach Roderick Vella who led the Under-12 & Under-13 squads while coach Elvin Sciberras guided our Under-8 team.

The entire Mqabba FC Youth Nursery comprised 75 people, including parents, players, and supporters, whose support and co-operation were instrumental in making this tournament a success. Special appreciation goes to SportMalta for their continuous support and financial assistance, and to all the parents especially Elizabeth Farrugia, whose photography captured the essence of the memorable moments throughout the event.

To our boys, a resounding well done! Your hard work and dedication were evident, and this experience undoubtedly contributes to your

holistic development, both on and off the field. The Under-12 and Under-13 squads, securing second place in the tournament, displayed positive skills and fair play.

Let’s not forget our little starlets in the Under-8 squad, securing a fantastic third place in their section and contributing to a positive tournament with their spirit and determination.

MATCH HIGHLIGHTS

The tournament brought exciting challenges for our teams. The U8s faced strong sides – Blu Land, RG Siracusa, Olimp Priolo, Luqa St Andrews, and Noto Calcio. Meanwhile, the U12s competed against Rari Nantes (Milan Scuola Calcio), Dingli, and Meridiana CT, and the U13s were up against Luqa, Rari Nantes (Milan Scuola Calcio), Pozzallo Due (Fiorentina Scuola Calcio), Catania Nuova, Life Sport Center, and RG Siracusa.

Special thanks extend to coaches Roderick Vella and Elvin Sciberras for their tireless support and dedication, together with Simon Spiteri from Sport Tourism Events Malta (STEM) and our friends from Mtarfa Youth Nursery who joined our teams. Credit also to Rino Torrisi, Piero Marino, and Giuseppe Campisi for organising a successful international football tournament involving 33 football nurseries and 82 teams, played at five different football grounds – Campo Via Pachino, Campo Cassibile, Campo Belvedere, Stadio Avola and Campo Nino’s Club Noto.

Apart from the football commitments, our team also dedicated some time to cultural and recreational activities during the stay in Sicily.

NURSERY FOCUS

A LONG-HELD DREAM –NAXXAR LIONS FOOTBALL NURSERY’S NEW GROUND

Nhone their skills more effectively. Moreover, having a centralised pitch eliminates the need to juggle multiple locations, streamlining logistics and making it easier for players and coaches to coordinate.

axxar Lions Nursery is on the brink of fulfilling a long-held dream… having its own ground. The dream began in 2017 when Chairman Marlon Brincat unveiled plans for the new ground. This significant milestone marks a turning point for the nursery, underlining progress, growth, and the culmination of years of hard work and dedication.

The prospect of having its own ground opens a world of possibilities for the nursery. It not only provides a permanent home for the club but also signifies a new-found stability and independence. The nursery can design and use the ground to suit its specific needs, ensuring a better environment for players, coaches, and supporters alike.

One of the most immediate benefits of having its own ground is the potential for better training sessions. With a dedicated space, training can be more structured and focused, allowing players to

This centralised approach extends beyond training sessions. With everyone gathered in one location, communication and coordination among the head coach, committee members, and other stakeholders become more efficient. This enables smoother planning of matches, events, and other activities, fostering a stronger sense of community and teamwork within the nursery.

The addition of a car park underneath the ground further enhances the experience for players and spectators. Parking problems, often a headache for sports clubs, are alleviated, making it easier for everyone to attend matches and training sessions without the hassle of searching for a parking spot.

Overall, the imminent realisation of its own ground marks an exciting new chapter for Naxxar Lions Nursery. It represents the climax of a long journey filled with hard work, dedication, and unwavering passion for the sport. With better training facilities, centralised operations, and improved logistics, the nursery is poised to reach new heights and continue nurturing young talent for years to come.

Fgura honouredUnited for social responsibility commitment

Congratulations to Fgura United who have won the Football Social Responsibility Award at the 2024 Malta FA Awards in recognition of their community and social projects. The award was presented to Larkin Bonnici, president of Fgura United, during the awards ceremony, held on 25th May.

Fgura United and their nursery regularly undertake social and educational programmes, promoting wellbeing and inclusion, while also supporting several good causes and NGOs such as Fondazzjoni Sebħ and Puttinu Cares.

This weekend (May 31-June 2), Fgura United are hosting a non-stop 50-hour football marathon in aid of Puttinu Cares. Earlier this year, Fgura United were also presented with the Sport for Social Change Award at the 2024 Għażliet Sportivi Nazzjonali, organised by the Għaqda Ġurnalisti Sport.

The Youth Football Association commends Fgura United and all clubs and nurseries that use the power of football to promote wellbeing, inclusion and support for the needy.

Promoting inclusion…

The Special Olympics Team participated in our U-9 National Festival, held last month at the Centenary Stadium.

YOUTH FA INITIATIVES

In line with our mission, the Youth FA is committed to consolidating our contribution to social responsibility projects through our ongoing collaboration with the Foundation for Social Welfare Services (FSWS), focusing on the prevention of addictive behaviours, and Dar Kenn Għal Saħħtek where the objective is to raise awareness about obesity and eating disorders among children and youths.

The Youth FA is also pursuing similar initiatives in partnership with Fondazzjoni Caritas Malta that plays a fundamental role in helping and supporting people who are facing different life challenges and difficulties.

The Youth Football Association c/o The Centenary Stadium, Ta’ Qali, ATD 4000, Malta

00356 21237080 info@theyouthfa.org.mt

FB The Youth Football Association Instagram youthfa_malta