Young and promising Maltese referees Philip Farrugia, Jude Amin Utulu, Matthew De Gabriele and Etienne Mangion last week attended a Talent and Mentor Seminar organised by the Irish FA at the Radisson Blu, St. Julians.

As part of the seminar, together with their Northern Ireland counterparts, they took charge of matches in the International Telecommunications’ Tournament held at the Sirens Stadium, St. Paul’s Bay. All matches were filmed for educational purposes by Malta FA Cameraman Mario Pisani, who provided DVDs immediately after the matches for participants and their mentors to carry out an in-depth analysis identifying the positive and development points for each match official involved.

Apart from Laws of the Game lectures delivered by IFA Head of Referees Alan Snoddy and MFA Director of Refereeing Adrian D. Casha, Sports Psychologist Adele Muscat conducted mental preparation sessions on “Goal Setting”. Group work was an essential part of this 5 day seminar, whilst physical training sessions were held at the nearby Pembroke FC Ground and were conducted by the IFA Fitness Coach Spike Hill.

Alan Snoddy, on behalf of the Irish officials had words of praise for the Maltese officials’ interest and participation; and for the hospitality shown towards them. Mr Adrian D. Casha appreciated his kind words, and on behalf of the Maltese participants thanked them for the invitation to attend such a fruitful experience.

Photo: Copyright © domenic aquilina