SportMalta officially launched the European Week of Sport during a press conference held at the Cottonera Sports Complex. The event, an annual highlight on the local and European sporting calendar, aims to promote physical activity and a healthy lifestyle across all age groups.

This Year’s Events

The European Week of Sport will feature a range of activities throughout Malta, with collaboration from sport organisations, schools, workplaces, local councils, and fitness centres. Two key events were announced during the press conference:

• Main National Event: This will take place at the Marsa Sports Grounds on Sunday, from 15:00 to 18:00. It promises to be a family-friendly event with numerous sports activities, open to everyone, encouraging participants to get active and enjoy a day full of physical activity.
• BeActive Night: A special event is scheduled for Saturday, 28th September, at the Cottonera Sports Complex, starting at 19:00. The night will feature various fitness challenges, fitness classes, and entertainment, offering a fun and engaging way to promote an active lifestyle.

Event Map on the SportMalta Website

To make planning easier for all participants, SportMalta has provided a detailed interactive map on its official website. This map features all the events scheduled during the European Week of Sport, along with important details such as times, venues, and the types of activities offered. Attendees are encouraged to visit the website to explore the map and select events that best suit their interests.

Speakers and Special Guests

The press conference was opened by Rose Marie Mercieca, who spoke on behalf of SportMalta, the national coordinating body for the European Week of Sport. Minister Clifton Grima, Minister for Education, Sport, Youth, Research, and Innovation, addressed the gathering, highlighting the government’s commitment to promoting a healthier, more active society and the significance of these initiatives in reaching that goal.

Keith Bartolo, Vice Chairperson of the Board of Directors of SportMalta, also spoke, emphasising the importance of fostering a culture of sports and physical activity within the community.

There were interventions by two notable ambassadors for the European Week of Sport, Olympians Katryna Esposito and Gianluca Chetcuti, who shared their experiences as athletes and the importance of sport in their lives. Their inspiring words encouraged people of all ages and abilities to embrace physical activity as part of their daily routine.

Karl Cortis and Rodmar Pulis, who have participated in previous editions of the European Week of Sport, also shared their personal experiences and how the event has motivated them to stay active.

A Tribute to Jake Vella

A touching moment during the event was the presentation of a memento to Josie Vella, father of the late Jake Vella. Jake, who was one of the ambassadors of the European Week of Sport, recently passed away. His passion for sport and his perseverance in the face of adversity served as an inspiration to many, and SportMalta honoured his memory during the press conference.

The European Week of Sport continues to grow each year, engaging a wider audience and promoting a healthier, more active lifestyle.

SportMalta is thrilled to extend a warm welcome to all parents, guardians, and young athletes as we gear up for an action-packed 2024-2025 scholastic year with our renowned OnTheMove programme. This year, we are excited to offer a wide range of sports activities for all age groups across various localities in Malta and Gozo, including the newly built Maria Assumpta Complex in Hamrun and the new facilities at the Marsa Sports Complex.

For children starting from the age of 4, we offer specially designed Sport Fundamentals programmes that focus on motivating them, developing their talents, building confidence, and keeping them active. These sessions are based on the ABCs of physical development—Agility, Balance, Coordination, and Speed—ensuring that your child gains essential motor skills in a fun and engaging environment.

At SportMalta, we emphasize the importance of sportsmanship, discipline, and positive behaviour. We encourage our young participants to practice these values not only during our sessions but also in their everyday lives. Consistent attendance and punctuality are key to a successful experience, contributing to your child’s development and overall enjoyment of the programme.

Important Dates:

– Start Date: 12th October 2024

– End Date: 23rd May 2025

Please note that there will be no sessions on public and national holidays. Additionally, there may be occasional cancellations due to national and international events at SportMalta complexes, but we are committed to minimizing disruptions.

Ready to Join?

We are delighted to open online bookings for this year’s OnTheMove programme. Secure your spot by applying through this [link](https://sportmalta.mt/programmes/online-booking-form/).

If you have any questions or need further information, feel free to contact us at 22036000 or via email at info@sportmalta.org.mt.

We look forward to welcoming you and your child to an exciting year of sports, growth, and learning with SportMalta. Wishing you and your family a delightful and rewarding year ahead!

Malta has just played host to the 2024 European Aquatics Men’s Water Polo Champions League Final Four. Teams from across Europe battled it out in intense matches, showcasing their skills and determination. Let’s dive into the highlights and key moments from this prestigious event.

Semi-Finals Recap

The semi-finals took place on June 5, 2024, at the National Pool Complex in Malta. Here’s a quick rundown:

1. Semi-Final 1: Recco vs. Olympiacos

– In a nail-biting encounter, Recco emerged victorious in a thrilling shootout thriller against Olympiacos.

2. Semi-Final 2: Ferencvaros vs. Novi Beograd

– Ferencvaros secured their spot in the final by defeating Novi Beograd.

Bronze Medal Match

On June 7, 2024, the bronze medal match unfolded:

– Bronze Medal Game: Olympiacos vs. Novi Beograd

– Olympiacos showcased their resilience, clinching the bronze medal.

–

The Grand Finale

The gold medal match was the pinnacle of excitement:

– Gold Medal Game: Recco vs. Ferencvaros

– Recco and Ferencvaros battled fiercely for the championship title.

– In a closely contested match, Ferencvaros emerged as the champions.

Malta’s Hosting Triumph

Malta’s National Pool Complex provided a stunning backdrop for these high-stakes water polo clashes. The agreement to host the Champions League Final Four for the next three years (2024, 2025, and 2026) solidifies Malta’s position as a premier water polo destination.

Congratulations to all the teams, and a heartfelt thank you to the Aquatics Sport Association of Malta in collaboration with SportMalta for an unforgettable water polo spectacle!

Minister for Education, Sport, Youth, Research and Innovation Clifton Grima and Minister for Tourism and Public Cleanliness Clayton Bartolo address a press conference regarding the Waterpolo Champions League Men Final 4
‘Pixxina Nazzjonali, Tal-Qroqq, MsidaMalta, May 28, 2024 – The anticipation for the Waterpolo Champions League Final 2024 is building, as a press conference held today officially launched the event. Karl Izzo, President of the Aquatic Sports Association of Malta, expressed his enthusiasm for water polo and Maltese sports, urging spectators to join in and support the event.

“I have a profound love for water polo and Maltese sport. I encourage everyone to come out and support this prestigious event,” Izzo stated, highlighting the significance of the tournament for the local sports community.

Izzo extended his gratitude to SportMalta, emphasizing the pivotal role played by its CEO, Mark Cutajar, in making the event possible. “We couldn’t have achieved this without the unwavering support of SportMalta and the leadership of Mark Cutajar,” he added.

Hon. Clayton Bartolo, Minister for Tourism, praised the collaborative efforts between the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry for Sport, led by Hon. Clifton Grima. “This event showcases the fruitful cooperation between our ministries, which ultimately benefits Maltese sport and tourism,” Bartolo remarked.

Minister for Education, Sport, Youth, Research and Innovation Clifton Grima and Minister for Tourism and Public Cleanliness Clayton Bartolo address a press conference regarding the Waterpolo Champions League Men Final 4
‘Pixxina Nazzjonali, Tal-Qroqq, Msida

Minister Clifton Grima echoed these sentiments, thanking everyone involved in the organization of the event. “The dedication and hard work of all parties involved are truly commendable. This event is a testament to our commitment to promoting sports in Malta,” Grima said.

Minister for Education, Sport, Youth, Research and Innovation Clifton Grima and Minister for Tourism and Public Cleanliness Clayton Bartolo address a press conference regarding the Waterpolo Champions League Men Final 4
‘Pixxina Nazzjonali, Tal-Qroqq, Msida

The Waterpolo Champions League Final promises to be a landmark event, celebrating the sport and fostering a sense of community among spectators and participants alike.

The European Aquatics Men’s Champions League Final Four, the highest event in the clubs’
water polo calendar, will take place in Malta from 5th to 7th June 2024. This prestigious
competition, which Malta will host for the next three years, is not just a sporting event but a
significant milestone that will shape the island’s sports culture and infrastructure, leaving a
lasting legacy.
The tournament will showcase top European water polo teams in high-stakes matches,
including two semi-finals and two finals at the National Pool Complex in Tal-Qroqq.
Competing teams include the record-holding Pro Recco (ITA), the reigning European
champions for the third consecutive year; Novi Beograd (SRB), runners-up in the last two
editions and hosts of the previous three Final Eight tournaments; Ferencvaros (HUN), the
2019 champions; and Olympiacos, the Greek powerhouse and two-time Champions League
winners.
As part of the event, a sports village will be established at the venue’s entrance to enhance
the spectators’ experience. The village will open at 17:00, while the first semifinal will kick off
at 19:00 and the second semifinal at 21:00. The third and fourth place and the grand final will
be played on 7th June at the same times.
The Ministry responsible for Sport and the Aquatic Sports Association have expressed keen
interest in organising this event. Their successful bid for the 2024 to 2026 editions is a
testament to Malta’s growing prowess in the sport on an international level. The commitment
to host such a high-profile tournament underscores Malta’s ambition to cement its position
in sports tourism and increase its visibility within the global sporting community.
The event will be broadcast across various international television networks and amplified
through strong social media engagement, ensuring a broad European audience. Already, five
international broadcasters have confirmed that they will be transmitting the event.

The European Aquatics Men’s Champions League Final Four is not just an opportunity for
sports fans to witness top-tier water polo. It’s a chance for the local community to be part of
an international event, to feel the excitement, and to contribute to its success. Volunteers
and local businesses, this is your moment to shine and show your support for the sport and
your community!
The very last tickets are on sale through the Aquatic Sports Association website,
www.asaofmalta.eu. Due to security reasons, tickets will not be sold at the door.