SportMalta’s latest initiative, the Mobility Project, Elevating Sports Management in Malta, set out with a clear goal, to strengthen how sports facilities across the country are managed and operated. To achieve this, a team from SportMalta travelled to Portugal to learn from some of the best examples of sports facility management in Europe. The project focused on understanding how top sports centres are run, how they support athletes, engage local communities, and remain financially and environmentally sustainable.

Portugal proved to be an excellent learning ground as this visit included sports centres like Rio Maior, known for its impressive integrated setup, combining training grounds, accommodation, sports science labs, and medical services all in one place. This centralised model not only improves efficiency but also gives athletes a better overall experience. One key takeaway was Portugal’s commitment to sustainability. Facilities use simple but effective energy saving tools, such as pool covers and LED lighting, which help reduce costs. Preventive maintenance systems and digital attendance tracking were also highlighted as best practices that keep operations organised and transparent.

A standout feature of Portugal’s approach is its strong support for dual-career athletes, those balancing sports and education, by offering flexible learning schedules and close partnerships between schools, universities, and sports bodies, athletes can pursue their academic goals without sacrificing training time. This integration ensures that sporting talent is nurtured without limiting future career opportunities. The Portuguese model also places great emphasis on community engagement. Local councils work closely with national sports authorities to promote “sport for all,” ensuring that everyone, from children to older adults has access to affordable and inclusive programmes. This not only boosts participation but also builds a lasting culture of health and community connection.

Financial sustainability was another important lesson. Many Portuguese facilities generate revenue through complementary activities like leisure parks, international training camps, and tournaments. This income allows them to offer free or low cost programmes for local communities while remaining self-sufficient. Governance in Portugal is coordinated by the Instituto Português do Desporto e Juventude (IPDJ), which manages sports development nationwide through structured programmes and digital systems. These promote transparency, efficiency, and performance tracking. Across all the centres visited, professionalism and high operational standards were clearly visible.

While Portugal enjoys larger campuses and more available land, Malta’s challenge lies in maximising limited space creatively. The Portuguese model also benefits from strong collaboration between national and municipal entities, something Malta could expand on through deeper partnerships with local councils and other entities. Another opportunity for Malta is in integrating athlete accommodation and sports science services within local facilities, a model that proved highly effective in Portugal. Additionally, adopting a hybrid funding system, where facilities combine public investment with revenue from camps, events, or leisure services, could enhance financial resilience. Educational integration is another area for growth. Partnering with Maltese Educational institutions could better support student athletes in balancing their studies with their sporting ambitions.

The Mobility Project achieved, and even surpassed, its initial objectives. The SportMalta team gained valuable insights into sustainable management, integrated athlete services, and community engagement. The study also revealed how revenue generation through sports tourism and leisure activities can secure long-term stability while keeping programmes affordable. At the same time, the project identified areas where Malta can continue to grow such as developing athlete accommodation, integrated performance hubs, and structured dual-career support systems. Importantly, it also underlined the need for ongoing staff development.

One of the most rewarding outcomes was the establishment of a long-term partnership between SportMalta and Portuguese sports authorities. Future plans include reciprocal visits, joint workshops, and collaborative projects focused on governance, sustainability, and digital transformation. This relationship promises continued mutual learning and innovation between the two nations.

Looking forward, Malta can apply several key lessons from Portugal. Integrating training, accommodation, and sports science will create a more complete support system for athletes. Embracing sustainability measures will lower operational costs, while diversifying revenue through camps, events, and leisure services will build financial resilience. Strengthening dual-career pathways and empowering local councils to run inclusive community programmes will encourage participation at all levels. Digital tools can help improve scheduling, data collection, and reporting, making facility management smoother and efficient. Finally, developing multi-sport hubs and promoting a culture of operational excellence will raise the standard of Maltese sports facilities and make them accessible to all.

The Mobility Project has shown how effective governance, sustainability, and community involvement can elevate a nation’s sports system. For Malta, the path forward lies in creativity, collaboration, and a shared commitment to continuous improvement. Through this partnership with Portugal, SportMalta has taken a major step toward building a more integrated, sustainable, and community centred model of sports management, one that supports both elite athletes and everyday citizens alike. Ultimately, this project strengthens the vision of developing multipurpose, one-stop sports facilities that make sport a central pillar of Maltese life.

As part of the European Week of Sport and the #BeActive campaign, St Thomas More College, Dun Ġużepp Żerafa Fgura Primary A proudly joined the national SportMalta Schools Sports Day 2025 with two exciting and educational events aimed at promoting physical activity, inclusion, and fun.
All students from Year 1 to Year 3 participated in a dynamic Sports Day circuit, rotating through various activity stations that supported the development of fundamental movement skills such as running, hopping, balancing, and throwing. Based on the Ready-Set-Play framework, these activities encouraged teamwork, perseverance, and enjoyment while helping children strengthen their coordination and physical literacy.
Meanwhile, Kinder 1 and Kinder 2 pupils enjoyed balance-bike sessions designed to introduce them to early cycling skills in a safe and playful environment. These sessions helped young learners improve their confidence, balance, and gross motor coordination.
The day was a wonderful celebration of movement, learning, and joy, showing how staying active can build healthy habits, confidence, and community spirit from the earliest years.

As part of the European Week of Sport and the #BeActive campaign, St. Thomas More College Tarxien Middle School proudly joined schools across Malta in celebrating the SportMalta Schools Sports Day 2025, a day dedicated to promoting physical activity, teamwork, and fun among students.
Throughout the day, students took part in a variety of sports and physical challenges designed to encourage movement, cooperation, and a positive attitude toward health and fitness. The event created a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere, with students demonstrating enthusiasm, fair play, and strong school spirit.
The celebration truly reflected the goals of the European Week of Sport, inspiring students to #BeActive, stay healthy, and embrace sport as a source of energy, confidence, and connection.

As part of the European Week of Sport and the #BeActive campaign, St. Margaret College Secondary School Verdala proudly celebrated the SportMalta Schools Sports Day 2025 with a special focus on Para Sports and the values of inclusion, respect, and teamwork.

This year’s event had a profound impact on students, as they were introduced to Para Sports such as goalball and athletics for individuals with visual impairments. Through these activities, students experienced first-hand the challenges and strengths involved in adaptive sports, fostering empathy and understanding while promoting an active and healthy lifestyle for everyone.

The event not only encouraged physical activity but also highlighted the importance of inclusivity in sport, showing that movement and participation are for all, regardless of ability.

As part of the European Week of Sport and the #BeActive campaign, Gozo College Ninu Cremona Secondary School proudly joined the national celebration of the SportMalta Schools Sports Day 2025 with a series of engaging and competitive activities designed to promote physical activity, teamwork, and the spirit of fair play.

On 15th October 2025, the school organised both football and handball tournaments for Year 11 students, with eight teams taking part. The tournaments created an exciting and energetic atmosphere, with students showing impressive skill, teamwork, and sportsmanship throughout the games.

In addition, the school introduced a cricket lesson as part of the day’s activities, giving students the chance to explore and learn about a new sport. This initiative aimed to broaden students’ sporting experiences and encourage them to try different forms of physical activity.

The event was a great success, reflecting the true spirit of the European Week of Sport inspiring students to #BeActive, embrace new challenges, and enjoy the many benefits of staying active together.

St. Benedict College, Birżebbuġa Primary proudly took part in the SportMalta Schools Sports Day, a national initiative held as part of the European Week of Sport and the #BeActive campaign. The event aimed to inspire students to stay active, healthy, and engaged in physical education.
On the day, a total of 387 pupils from Year 1 to Year 6 participated in a variety of sports activities designed to promote physical fitness, teamwork, and enjoyment. Activities were held both indoors and outdoors, ensuring that every student could join in and experience the fun of being active.
The school’s three Physical Education teachers worked enthusiastically to organise and supervise the sessions, providing students with a memorable and engaging experience. Children thoroughly enjoyed the activities, which not only encouraged movement but also reinforced the importance of healthy living and cooperation.
This event has now become an annual highlight in the school calendar, helping to foster a culture of activity, health, and enjoyment of sport among all pupils. The school is proud to be part of this initiative and remains committed to inspiring the next generation to #BeActive and embrace a healthy, active lifestyle.

As part of the European Week of Sport 2025, the Reġjun Tramuntana proudly celebrated the Deep Blue Green – Exercise for Wellbeing initiative. This week-long programme brought together residents, community leaders, and partners to promote physical health, mental balance, and a stronger sense of togetherness through movement and nature.

The initiative was officially launched with the “Wellness in Motion – Morning of Activities” event held at Għadira Bay, Mellieħa, which attracted over 90 participants. The opening ceremony featured inspiring speeches by local and regional representatives who emphasised the importance of integrating wellbeing, sustainability, and inclusivity into everyday life. The beautiful seaside setting provided the perfect backdrop for participants to experience the connection between nature and active living.

Throughout the week, a wide variety of activities took place across the Reġjun Tramuntana, encouraging participation from people of all ages and abilities. Highlights included Woodcraft Therapy Workshops that focused on mindfulness and creativity, Children’s Craft Activities promoting expression and teamwork, and Mindfulness and Self-Love Circles. Energetic sessions such as Trampoline Fitness and Line Dancing added fun and rhythm to the programme, while Football Games – Breaking Barriers fostered inclusion and teamwork among participants. Environmental awareness also played a key role, with initiatives like the Underwater Clean-Up reminding everyone of the importance of protecting Malta’s natural beauty. Special sessions such as Active Mornings for 60+ and the Street Sports Fest in the Garden further encouraged community connection and active ageing.

The Deep Blue Green theme highlighted the harmony between nature, movement, and wellbeing, reminding participants that sport is not only about performance, but also about health, balance, and joy.

The European Week of Sport 2025 once again demonstrated how community-based initiatives can create lasting impact to inspire Maltese citizens to #BeActive not only during this week, but throughout the year.

As part of the European Week of Sport and the #BeActive campaign, Maria Regina College Żokrija, together with the Physical Education Department, organised an engaging outdoor educational activity designed to promote physical fitness, well-being, and appreciation for nature.

The event, planned and coordinated by three dedicated Physical Education teachers, featured a 2km walk followed by a picnic in a natural setting. Blessed with a bright, sunny day, students had the perfect opportunity to enjoy the outdoors while staying active and connecting with their peers.

The activity aimed to emphasise the importance of regular outdoor physical activity and encourage students to recognise the many benefits of movement beyond the classroom environment. Students participated with great enthusiasm, showing teamwork, positivity, and a genuine appreciation for being active in nature.

The event was a great success, combining education, physical activity, and fun, and fully captured the spirit of the European Week of Sport, inspiring everyone to #BeActive and embrace a healthy, active lifestyle.

Between the 23rd and 30th of September 2025, St. Monica School Birkirkara proudly joined the SportMalta Schools Sports Day initiative as part of the European Week of Sport and the #BeActive campaign. The week-long celebration promoted the importance of physical activity, teamwork, inclusion, and healthy living across all year groups,  from primary to secondary.

Students took part in a fun circuit of sports stations, including gymnastics, archery, football, stilts, tennis, scooters, and obstacle courses. Each activity encouraged students to develop coordination, balance, confidence, and resilience, while discovering new and exciting sports.

Students embraced the spirit of inclusion through Paralympic-themed activities, such as goalball, paravolley, blindfold obstacle races, and a “Walk the Mile for All” event, emphasising that sport is for everyone, regardless of ability.

Throughout the week, both primary and secondary students joined in energetic Zumba sessions during break time, uniting the whole school in movement and rhythm. A colourful “Favourite Team Day” encouraged students to wear their favourite sports gear, while students-versus-teachers games in basketball, volleyball, and football added a fun competitive twist to the week.

Highlights included a Year 9 student sharing her passion for motor sport, inspiring her peers with a presentation of her motorbike and experiences in racing, as well as a karting demonstration by another student who encouraged more girls to try the sport.

To complement the focus on active living, all primary students enjoyed a healthy breakfast, reinforcing the link between good nutrition and physical well-being. A standout experience for students was a special session with members of the Maltese National Women’s Football Team. The players shared their sporting journeys, answered questions, and inspired students to chase their athletic dreams.

Throughout the week, students were encouraged to “Walk the Mile” and secondary lessons were infused with sports-themed learning, connecting academics with the values of perseverance and teamwork.

The European Week of Sport 2025 was truly a celebration of movement, inclusion, and community. With full participation from students and teachers alike, the week embodied the spirit of #BeActive,  promoting fitness, fun, and friendship through sport