SportMalta is proud to announce the much-anticipated return of Summer on the Move, Malta’s national summer sports programme, which continues to serve as a cornerstone initiative aimed at encouraging physical activity, promoting healthy lifestyles, and ensuring that summer is both fun and enriching for everyone. The 2025 edition will officially kick off on Monday, 7th July, and will be hosted across six SportMalta complexes strategically located around the islands.

This year’s edition marks a particularly exciting milestone with the inclusion of two newly added facilities, Maria Assumpta and Marsa, which will complement the already established venues at Tal-Qroqq, Kirkop, Mosta, and Cottonera. These additional complexes offer increased accessibility and capacity, allowing more participants to enjoy high quality sports infrastructure. With upgraded amenities, modern equipment, and spacious environments, these new locations significantly enhance the overall experience and enable even greater participation from communities across Malta.

A standout feature of Summer on the Move 2025 is the introduction of a specialised 5-day Gymnastics Camp, to be held exclusively at the Marsa complex. This camp promises an immersive and supportive experience, perfect for both beginners and those with existing interest in gymnastics. Led by SportMalta’s experienced and certified coaching team, the camp provides a dynamic, skill-building environment focused on body awareness, coordination, discipline, and fun.

To accommodate busy family schedules, all complexes will open their doors at 07:30 hrs, allowing for early drop-off options. The morning sessions begin promptly at 08:00 hrs, and follow a structured timetable filled with engaging, age-appropriate activities tailored to boost physical fitness, social skills, and confidence in a safe and inclusive setting.

In line with SportMalta’s mission to promote lifelong wellness, the 2025 programme has been further expanded to include morning sessions specifically designed for adults aged 17 and over. These include Swimming, Aqua Fitness, Dance Fitness, and Yoga, ensuring that adults also can stay active, relieve stress, and engage with their community through movement and mindful exercise.

Moreover, one-hour afternoon sessions will be offered at various complexes, catering to both children and adults who may prefer or require later activity times. These sessions provide added flexibility while maintaining SportMalta’s standards of quality coaching, variety, and fun.

A significant new focus in this year’s programme is the evening sessions, which have been designed to further develop sporting fundamentals, particularly for younger participants. These sessions place a strong emphasis on strengthening the ABCs Agility, Balance, and Coordination, the foundational elements for physical development in all sports. Children will benefit from expert-led, fun, and engaging exercises that support their long-term athletic growth and personal development.

A diverse range of sports will be offered during the evening, including basketball, athletics, karate, judo, gymnastics, and more. These options allow young participants to explore different disciplines, discover new interests, and improve their technical skills in a dynamic and supportive environment.

For adults, evening fitness classes will also be available, ensuring that the entire family can take part in healthy, active routines throughout the day. Whether you’re a beginner or more advanced, there’s a class to suit every fitness level and personal goal.

Summer on the Move 2025 remains deeply rooted in SportMalta’s core values promoting inclusion, active living, personal growth, and community spirit. It is more than just a sports programme, it’s a holistic experience that fosters friendships, builds confidence, and encourages a positive and energetic lifestyle.

With expanded locations, new programme highlights, and a continued dedication to delivering safe, inclusive, and high-quality sporting opportunities, Summer on the Move 2025 is set to offer another unforgettable summer for children, youth, and adults across Malta.

As anticipation builds for Summer On the Move 2025, SportMalta held a comprehensive seminar designed to equip our dedicated coaching team with the tools and mindset needed for another successful season.

The seminar, brought together coaches from all disciplines to align with SportMalta’s overarching mission:

“Moving a nation through the promotion and development of sport for a healthy, inclusive and successful Malta.”

Throughout the session, we emphasised the importance of fostering positive and holistic coaching practices.

Our focus remains on creating dynamic, inclusive, and welcoming environments where participants of all ages and abilities can thrive. From communication strategies to adapting sessions for various needs, coaches were encouraged to reflect on their role as leaders, motivators, and role models in their communities.

Interactive discussions gave coaches the opportunity to share experiences, explore real life scenarios, and reaffirm their commitment to continuous improvement. The afternoon concluded with a practical, hands-on in-water session. This ensured our team remains well-versed in the latest techniques, safety protocols, and activity planning, critical for delivering top quality sessions across our national sports complexes.

As we move closer to the launch of Summer On the Move 2025, the energy and enthusiasm from our coaching team is visible. Their renewed confidence and commitment are set to make this summer’s programme more impactful than ever.

Here’s to a season of movement, fun, and development for all participants.

#SportMalta #SummerOnTheMove2025 #BeActive

“Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.”

Malta has once again taken centre stage in European aquatic sports by successfully hosting the Final 4 of the European Aquatics Champions League, a prestigious event that has not only elevated the country’s international reputation but also showcased the unmatched capability of local sporting institutions. The event, held art National Pool Complex in Tal-Qroqq, was another success, an organisational benchmark that was widely praised by European Aquatics and millions of viewers across the continent.

The four elite clubs that battled for European supremacy Barceloneta of Spain, Novi Beograd of Serbia, Marseille of France and Ferencváros of Hungary delivered thrilling performances in every match. Each encounter was a testament to top tier water polo, athletic brilliance, and sportsmanship taking centre stage. The atmosphere at the venue was electric, with hundreds of local and international fans filling the stands, while over 3 million viewers tuned in across more than 20 countries to follow the live broadcasts, making it the most watched sport event in recent history.

What made this edition of the Champions League Final 4 particularly exceptional was not just the level of play, but the flawless organisation that underpinned the event. Malta’s hosting efforts were nothing short of world class, thanks to a collaborative effort driven by SportMalta and supported fully by the Aquatic Sport Association and the Ministry of Education and Sports. Their continued and strategic investment in aquatic sports has paid off allowing Malta to not only host high level events but to do so with a flair and efficiency that is winning admiration across Europe.

One such investment that stood out during this year’s tournament was the inauguration of a new state-of-the-art lighting system at the National Pool Complex, unveiled during the opening match on Friday. This €135,000 investment by SportMalta has significantly enhanced the venue’s infrastructure, further cementing its status as one of the premier aquatic facilities in Europe.

In addition to the thrilling sporting action, Sunday also featured a special brunch held at the Kalkara Marina, bringing together stakeholders and dignitaries to celebrate the success of the event. During his speech, Minister for Education, Sport, Youth, Research and Innovation, Clifton Grima, expressed his pride in Malta’s achievements in hosting such a high-level international competition. He remarked that this success gives the country greater courage and confidence to continue investing in aquatic sports, noting how these events serve as a catalyst for further development in the sector.

European Aquatics President Antonio Silva also addressed the gathering, heaping praise on SportMalta, the Aquatic Sports Association of Malta (ASA), and the Government for their hard work and vision. Silva emphasized how proud European Aquatics is to have Malta as the host of the Champions League Final 4 from 2024 through 2026, a testament to the trust and confidence in Malta’s capabilities.

Mark Cutajar, CEO of SportMalta and Chairman of the Organising Committee, echoed these sentiments, stating that Malta has now firmly established itself as the go to destination for organising and hosting top tier events. “Everyone now knows that Malta is the place to host big competitions like the Champions League. We never fail, we always succeed,” Cutajar declared.

ASA President Karl Izzo also addressed the attendees and offered some food for thought. He reminded the audience that while 2026 will mark the final year Malta will host the Champions League Final 4 under the current agreement, plans are already in motion for other major competitions to be brought to Malta in the near future, ensuring the country’s presence on the global aquatic sports map continues to grow.

The Champions League week also saw the successful organisation of the second edition of the SportMalta Centenary Cup. This domestic tournament featured four of Malta’s top clubs Neptunes, Sliema, Sirens, and San Ġiljan. The final match saw a dominant performance by Neptunes, who overpowered San Ġiljan to claim the coveted title, adding a local flavour of excellence to an already action-packed week.

Adding to the fan experience was a vibrant and well organised fan zone set up at the National Pool Complex. The fan zone was a major success, creating a festive and interactive environment for supporters of all ages. Activities, live entertainment, and food stalls transformed the venue into a celebration of sport and community spirit.

Credit is also due to the match officials, whose performance was crucial in maintaining the integrity of the competition. Throughout the tournament, referees and technical staff upheld the highest standards, managing high-stakes games with confidence and authority. Not a single controversial decision marred the tournament, an increasingly rare feat in modern sport. Their contribution ensured that the focus remained on the athletes and their exceptional displays.

In every aspect, be it sporting quality, event execution or global reach, this year’s European Aquatics Champions League Final 4 in Malta was a triumph. With another edition already confirmed for next year, expectations are higher than ever. Malta has proven it can deliver, and all signs point to 2026 being even bigger and better.

“Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.”

For the second time, the Aquatic Sports Association of Malta in collaboration with SportMalta and the Ministry of sport will once again host the Champions League Final 4, which will be held between the 30th of May and the 1st of June at the National Pool, Tal-Qroqq.

During yesterday’s press conference, the Minister for Education, Sport, Youth, Research and Innovation, Hon. Clifton Grima, stated that hosting the biggest competition in waterpolo in Malta is clear proof that the investment made in sports is a success. He added that all this gives even more strength to continue investing in sport.

From his end, ASA President Karl Izzo gave details about the preparations and explained that—just like last year, but on a bigger scale—the event will once again feature a Sporting Village, and that all Final 4 games will be transmitted not only locally but also on various international networks, reaching an even wider audience.

CEO of SportMalta and Chairman of the Organizing Committee Mark Cutajar said that the involvement of SportMalta is crucial to ensure that this prestigious event is once again a successful one. He also noted that it is thanks to the collaboration with various sports entities that Malta continues to attract top international events to be hosted locally.

This year’s edition of the Final 4 will also inaugurate the newly installed permanent lighting system at the National Pool, a €135,000 investment which will benefit all aquatic disciplines. This state-of-the-art lighting will enhance the experience of both international and local aquatic events going forward.

Additionally, during the same week as the Champions League Final 4, the SportMalta Cup will also take place, featuring the top four local waterpolo clubs competing to win the second edition of this local tournament.

On the day of the Champions League Final, a Fan Zone will be set up, complete with entertainment, food stalls, and live music by the popular group Tikka Banda, making it a full sporting and cultural celebration.

To ensure the smooth running of the event and safety of attendees, access by car to the National Pool will be restricted from the 30th of May to the 1st of June. The road leading to the pool near St Monica School will be closed to traffic and accessible only by foot. For convenience, the University Football Ground will be open for public parking.

Tickets are already on sale as follows:

• Day Ticket: €60
• Block Ticket (access to all matches): €85
  Tickets are available as from Monday 21^st April from www.showshappening.com

To ensure the younger generation doesn’t miss out, free tickets will be distributed to all waterpolo nurseries across the island.

We will soon know the four teams who will battle it out in the Final 4. In Group A, Marseille (FRA) and Novi Beograd (SRB) are currently tied at the top with 9 points each from 4 games, followed by Olympiacos (GRC) in third with 5 points.
In Group B, the competition remains wide open: Ferencvaros (HUN) leads with 10 points, followed by Barceloneta (ESP) with 8 points, and Savona (ITA) close behind.

All eyes are now on the upcoming matches to see who will earn their spot in Malta’s showpiece Final 4 event.

“Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.”

SportMalta is proud to have been part of this inspiring journey, providing assistance in making this initiative a success. A heartfelt thanks also goes to the Richmond Foundation for spearheading this important cause.

The four-day endurance challenge, led by Mark and Jon from Vitera, dedicated six hours each day to swimming, cycling, and running. This initiative aimed to raise awareness about men’s mental health and the scientifically proven benefits of physical activity on psychological wellbeing.

The challenge shined a much-needed spotlight on men’s mental health, men are significantly less likely than women to seek help for mental health issues, contributing to suicide rates that are approximately three times higher among men than women, both in Malta and globally.

“Mark and Jon took on this challenge because they’ve seen how many men suffer in silence,” said Daniela Calleja Bitar CEO of Richmond Foundation. “By pushing their physical limits, they hoped to break down barriers and start conversations that many men find difficult to have. It’s about showing strength through vulnerability and encouraging others to take that first step toward mental wellbeing.”

Each day of the challenge featured six hours of endurance sports across three disciplines an effort not just of physical resilience but also of emotional strength and purpose.

“This wasn’t just about athletic performance,” said the Vitera team. “It was about demonstrating how consistent, sustainable effort in looking after your wellbeing can make a real difference to your mental state. We wanted to encourage men to find wellness strategies that work for them.”

Several notable figures attended the event to show their support and help amplify this critical message.

This initiative would not have been possible without the dedication of all those involved. SportMalta is honoured to have contributed to this cause, reinforcing our commitment to fostering a healthier, more mindful society. A special thanks to the Richmond Foundation for leading the way in addressing mental health challenges and supporting those in need.

“Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.”