June 19th brought to an end season 2009/2010 for the Youth Football Association with the Annual General Meeting which was held at the Centenary Hall, Ta’ Qali. This meeting was also the last one for vice-president Godfrey Pecorella, who announced that he would not be contesting for the post although he will still be active within the association as member of boards and sub-committees. The new Youth FA vice-president is Robert Attard.

In his introduction, Youth FA president Fr. Hilary Tagliaferro reminded those present that before teaching them football, it was of utmost importance to pass on values to the kids, enabling them to become good citizens. He mentioned the seminar organised by the Youth FA and the Secretariat for Catechesis “Il-Valuri fl-Isports” for which there was a large attendance including the presence of the President of the Republic, Dr. George Abela.

Youth FA General Secretary Joe Micallef read the administrative report which included a detailed account of the competitions organised by the Youth FA last season, namely the APS Bank League U/17 (Sections A, B and C1-2-3), APS Bank League U/15 (Sections A, B and C1-2-3), the National Lotteries Good Causes Fund U/15 and U/17 Knock-Out Competitions, the Gatorade U/11 and U/13 Football Festivals and the Panini U/9 Fun Football Events. He pointed out the Council’s priorities for next season which build on this season’s successes. Treasurer Alfred Cacciattolo then read the association’s financial report.

For the next two years, the association’s officials will be: Fr. Hilary Tagliaferro (President), Joe Cassar and Robert Attard (Vici-Presidents), Joe Micallef (Secretary General) and Alfred Cacciatolo (Honorary Treasurer). The five Council members representing the nurseries are: Godwin Aquilina (Sta. Venera), Mario Debattista (Luxol St.Andrews), Henry Bray (Birkirkara), Charles Cassar (Rabat Depiro) and Mark Bondin (Mqabba). The five neutral members – Joe Pace, Francis Zammit, Emm. Agius, Charles Bugeja and Charles Farrugia – were also approved.

Malta Football Association vice-president Ludovico Micallef praised the Youth FA for its work and reminded those present on the social and educational responsibilities nurseries have.

Fr. Hilary Tagliaferro concluded the AGM by thanking the 49 nurseries affiliated to the Youth FA for their sterling work, the Malta FA and the sponsors for their support, all members and last but not least Godfrey Pecorella for his work towards the association.

The first meeting of the Youth FA council will be held on June 22.