The SportMalta Christmas International Waterpolo Tournament 2023 showcased Malta’s resilience and determination despite facing tough opponents. On Day 1, Malta faced Italy, resulting in a challenging 6-23 defeat. However, considering the differing levels of the teams, the outcome was somewhat expected. It served as a valuable learning experience for the young Maltese players.

Day 2 saw Malta competing against France, resulting in a closer 11-15 loss. Despite the defeat, Malta demonstrated their ability to play commendable waterpolo. On Day 3, Malta faced the Netherlands, concluding their tournament with a 7-22 loss.

The overall tournament result reflects the challenges Malta encountered, with three consecutive losses. Nevertheless, the experience gained will undoubtedly contribute to the team’s growth.

Final results of the overall tournament:

– Italy won the tournament with three victorious games.

– France secured the second position.

– The Netherlands claimed the third spot, and Malta finished in fourth place.

As they regroup and learn from their performances, the Maltese waterpolo team looks ahead to the upcoming European Championships in Croatia, aiming for a stronger showing on the international stage.

2024 will be a remarkable year for SportMalta since it will be celebrating its ten years following the transition from the then Kunsill Malti għall-Isport.  In the last press conference of the year SportMalta gave details about the first activities in 2024 and recognised several schools which took part in the SportMalta Schools Sports Day.  A recognition night to celebrate individuals who supported society through sport and physical activity.

Rose Marie Mercieca, Coordinator of the European Week of Sport said that SportMalta would like to recognize the work done in the schools of Malta and Gozo as part of the European Week initiative of Sport.  She said that since its inception ten years ago, the participation within this initiative continued to grow year after year reaching a record participation in 2023.  She congratulated all the schools and stressed on the importance of dissemination in schools and beyond.

Mark Cutajar CEO SportMalta said that in as in the last ten years, SportMalta will keep serving the society at large by providing opportunities to associations, clubs, individuals to practice sport and physical activity.  Her announced that a Conference ‘Celebrating Sport in Malta’ will happen between the 12^th and the 13^th of January 2024.

The main themes of the conference will be mental wellbeing, parental involvement, sustainability in events and promotion of sport in school.  The three sessions will have a different audience namely teachers and coaches on Friday morning, parents on Friday afternoon and Sport Associations and clubs on Saturday Morning.  For this a high-level international line up will deliver keynote presentations.  Amongst the speakers there will be Barbara Brennan an Irish Mental Health Advocate, Canadian Architect James Thoem, Olivier Goudet from UEFA and from World Rugby Greg Woods and Jason Lewis.

SportMalta Chairman Omar spoke about the successes that SportMalta had in the last ten years and said that the entity is committed to keep on delivering.  Sport is not only measured by medals but is also measured with values inculcated in all participants.

Minister Clifton Grima the public consultation document on the Strategy for Education with the strategy for sport.  He congratulated all the school who took part in the SportMalta Schools Sports Day and highlighted the benefits of such initiatives.  He remarked on the achievement reached by SportMalta and on the success of the local athletes in the Games of Small States of Europe 2023.

Minister Grima together with SportMalta Chairman Omar Farrugia presented sport equipment to participating schools.

The Sport Malta Christmas International Tournament press conference held at the Sport Malta Cottonera Sports Complex on Friday, 15th December, at 11:30 am. Speakers included Hon Minister Dr. Clifton Grima, SportMalta Chairperson Omar Farrugia, SportMalta CEO Mark Cutajar, ASA President Karl Izzo, and MTA Representative. The event showcased the upcoming dates between 28th and 30th December 2023 for the National Senior Men’s teams of Malta, France, Italy, and the Netherlands. Secure your tickets at www.asaofmalta.eu – Block Ticket €60 on a first-come-first-served basis.

Maltese athletes excelled at the 2023 Games of the Small States of Europe, hosted by Malta, earning a Medal for Service to the Republic. In an outstanding achievement, Malta secured 38 gold, 30 silver, and 29 bronze medals, emerging as the overall winner among nine participating countries. This remarkable performance highlights the commitment of Maltese athletes and showcases the talent present in smaller nations. Eleanor Bezzina led Team Malta as the appointed Team Captain, overseeing their success across various sports, including athletics, basketball, judo, rugby, sailing, shooting, squash, swimming, table-tennis, and tennis.

All this marks another positive chapter in the sporting narrative of 2023, highlighting the collaborative contributions of athletes, sports personnel, the Olympic committee, associations, families, government entities, sponsors, sports journalists, organizing committee, ministry, and volunteers. Embracing and supporting sports is a shared commitment for all!

On the 12th of October, our school enthusiastically joined the SportMalta Schools Sports Day, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and healthy competition among students. The event saw the active participation of students from KG 2 to Year 6, engaging in a range of outdoor games tailored to their specific age groups. This not only provided an opportunity for physical exercise but also promoted teamwork and sportsmanship.

Continuing the momentum, on the 13th of October, students from KG 2 to Year 6 embarked on a refreshing 20-minute walk around the picturesque St. Thomas Bay promenade. The scenic surroundings not only encouraged physical activity but also offered a chance for students to appreciate the beauty of their local environment while promoting a healthy and active lifestyle.

Simultaneously, the school ensured that the youngest members, the KG1 students, were not left out of the sporting fun. Tailored sports activities were organized in the school yard, offering these young participants a chance to develop their motor skills and cultivate an early love for physical activity.

Overall, the SportMalta Schools Sports Day proved to be a holistic and inclusive event, catering to students of all age groups and fostering a culture of fitness, teamwork, and well-being within our school community.

13th October 2023 was an exciting day for Kalkara Primary School as we actively participated in the SportMalta Schools Sports Day. The event showcased various sports stations, each designed to engage and challenge students physically and mentally.

At Station 1, dedicated to Gymnastics, an obstacle course was organised that demanded a combination of agility and coordination. Students navigated through activities like rolling over in pencil roll or forward roll, jumping on the trampoline, and balancing over the half cylinder. This station not only tested their physical prowess but also introduced elements of fun and creativity. Meanwhile, Station 2 featured bean bag races where students were equipped with tennis rackets and bean bags. They had to skillfully place the bean bag on the racket and race to the marker, turning and returning with precision.

Moving on to Station 3, the Stilts races, students were provided with a pair of stilts. The challenge was to maintain balance while advancing towards the rings. Each student had to pick up one ring and carefully make their way back to the starting line. Station 4 incorporated ladders, where students were divided into two groups and assigned various tasks such as hopping on one foot, jumping with both feet in, moving sideways, and taking two steps forward followed by one step back.

Station 5 introduced a spirited game of Hot Potato. The students were divided into two teams, each armed with shuttlecocks (bombs). The objective was to throw the shuttles over the badminton net, and the team with the least number of shuttles in their area emerged as the victorious one.

Shifting to Station 6, Shooting, a goal post and a softball were central to the activity. Students aimed to shoot and score a point inside the goal post. Some classes engaged in shooting exercises, while others enjoyed a small football game. Meanwhile, Station 7 featured Balancing, where students were provided with balance balls. In a friendly yet competitive atmosphere, they raced against opponents while maintaining balance on the balls.

The SportMalta Schools Sports Day not only fostered physical fitness but also encouraged teamwork, creativity, and sportsmanship among the students. It was a day filled with enthusiasm and camaraderie, leaving lasting memories for all participants.

On Friday, 13th October, Birkirkara Primary School actively participated in the SportMalta Schools Sports Day by organizing invigorating Zumba Sessions as part of the European School Sport Day. This initiative aimed to promote physical activity among both students and educators alike. The Zumba Sessions not only provided an enjoyable and engaging way to burn calories but also served as an effective means to reduce stress, enhance coordination, and, above all, foster a sense of happiness and energy among the participants.

The lively atmosphere and vibrant music during the sessions created a dynamic and inclusive environment, encouraging everyone to embrace the joy of movement. It was heartening to witness the enthusiastic participation of students and educators alike, reinforcing the school’s commitment to overall well-being and a healthy, active lifestyle.

These Zumba Sessions not only contributed to the success of the SportMalta Schools Sports Day but also left a lasting impact on the school community, highlighting the importance of physical activity as an essential component of a balanced and fulfilling education. As a school, we are proud to have played an active role in promoting fitness, well-being, and a positive mindset among our students and educators through this exhilarating event.”

Valletta Primary school joined the SportMalta Schools Sports Day, a vibrant event that brought together schools from various regions. The collaborative spirit among students, teachers, and staff was palpable as we engaged in a wide array of sports activities, fostering not only physical fitness but also a sense of camaraderie and teamwork.

The dedicated teacher, who led the coordination of the circuit activities during this event. Once again took charge, ensuring the seamless organization of events for the SportMalta Schools Sports Day. These carefully crafted activities were thoughtfully designed to accommodate the diverse needs and abilities of our students, promoting inclusivity and active participation for all.

The School Sports Day provided an invaluable opportunity for our students to showcase their athletic talents, build sportsmanship, and forge lasting memories. As a school community, we take pride in our commitment to promoting a healthy and active lifestyle among our students, and events like these contribute significantly to the holistic development of our school community.

Certainly! It’s great that St. Margaret College Senglea, participated in the SportMalta Schools Sports Day. The event brought together students from kindergarten to year 6, showcasing the school’s commitment to fostering physical activity and sportsmanship among students of all age groups. The participation in such events not only promotes a healthy and active lifestyle but also provides students with valuable opportunities for teamwork, skill development, and friendly competition. It’s a wonderful initiative that contributes to the overall well-being and holistic development of the school community.

The committed educators, who spearheaded the orchestration of the circuit activities throughout the event, once more assumed responsibility for guaranteeing the flawless arrangement of events for the SportMalta Schools Sports Day. The meticulously planned activities were specifically tailored to cater to the varied needs and capabilities of our students, fostering an environment of inclusiveness and encouraging active participation for all.

On the 13th of October, St. Monica School, Birkirkara participated in the SportMalta Schools Sports Day 2023. It was a vibrant and energetic day that showcased the importance of physical activity and sportsmanship among students.

Amidst the enthusiastic atmosphere, students enthusiastically engaged in a variety of sports activities, transforming the school grounds into a hub of excitement. The air resonated with shouts and laughter, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and healthy competition. The students not only demonstrated their athletic prowess but also exhibited essential values such as teamwork and sportsmanship.

The diverse range of activities catered to different interests and age groups, ensuring everyone could find something they enjoyed. The sports lineup for the day included basketball, where the court echoed with the sound of bouncing balls and cheering teammates. Running events tested the students’ speed and endurance, fostering a sense of personal achievement.

In a nod to Maltese traditions, students also had the opportunity to participate in traditional Maltese games, connecting with the cultural roots of the region. These games not only provided a sense of heritage but also added a unique and local flavor to the overall sports day experience.

For the younger years, an exciting activity involving a parachute added an element of fun and coordination to the day. This not only contributed to their physical development but also nurtured a love for physical activity from a young age.

Overall, the SportMalta Schools Sports Day was a resounding success, leaving a lasting impact on our school community. The event not only promoted a healthy and active lifestyle but also reinforced the values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and cultural pride. It was a day where the entire school came together to celebrate the joy of sports, fostering a spirit of unity and well-being among students.