MFA launches National Stadium tours

As part of its strategy to promote further the game of football, encourage further participation and re-generate enthusiasm towards the national teams, the Malta Football Association has today launched a new initiative – National Stadium Tours. This was launched during a tour given to College Principals and Head of Church Schools and S.P.U. at the MFA facilities in Ta’ Qali on Thursday.

The introduction of these tours follow other initiatives introduced last year, such as school visits by delegations composed of players and members of the Technical Staff of the National Team, and activities to promote grassroots football in schools.

The tours are primarily intended for school children – boys and girls – aged between 8 and 14 years. The main objectives are that of giving students a first hand experience of what is behind the largest single sport organisation on these islands, create a sense of pride and appreciation of the national football structure, further enhance the concept of sport education while creating another opportunity for school children to feel closer to our National Team. The association is therefore provide schools with an alternative option for school excursions which would also serve to build-up a wider dialogue between the MFA and the various colleges and schools.

During such tours, youngsters will experience a unique visit to MFA Training Grounds, the Centenary Hall, the National Team dressing rooms, the emotions of walking through the players’ tunnel, onto the football pitch and walk up the steps which have seen so many winning team captains finding their way to collect their prize along the past thirty years of football at Ta’ Qali.

Participants will also be able to watch a video showing the emotions that football provides, take part in a football activity and receive tokens.

Details about these tours were given by MFA CEO Bjorn Vassallo, MFA Technical Director Robert Gatt, MFA Head of Marketing Norman Saliba and MFA Tours Co-ordinator Alfred Cachia.

Photo: Copyright © domenic aquilina