Important assignments for Malta FA officials in UEFA committees

UEFA
by Malta FA

Malta FA President, Bjorn Vassallo, has been appointed as the Chairman of the Youth and Amateur Football Committee, taking over from the Polish, Zbigniew Boniek. This influential position signifies UEFA’s recognition of Malta’s contribution to European football development.

The UEFA Youth and Amateur Football Committee oversees youth football development in Europe. It focuses on promoting grassroots football, organizing youth competitions, and supporting talent identification programs. The committee also emphasizes player welfare and safety, fosters coaching education, and advocates for integration and inclusion within the sport. By collaborating with national associations and stakeholders, it strives to make football accessible to all and communicates UEFA’s vision for the growth of youth and amateur football across the continent.

Beyond this role, MFA President, Bjorn Vassallo, has been also actively contributing to UEFA’s broader vision as a member of the UEFA Strategy Steering Committee. This working group, has been established recently to develop a new UEFA Strategy for 2024-2030. The UEFA Strategy Steering Committee has completed an initial consultation phase internally and engaged in bilateral discussions with UEFA Senior Management. Presently, the group is diligently working on the formulation of the UEFA Strategy 2024-2030, which will be structured around key objectives, while staying aligned with the core mission, vision, and principles of UEFA and European football.The feedback and insights garnered from various stakeholders are proving invaluable in shaping the future trajectory of UEFA. Emphasizing collaboration and inclusivity, the UEFA Strategy 2024-2030 will strive to address pertinent challenges, optimize opportunities, and bolster the growth and sustainability of European football.

UEFA has recognized the invaluable contributions of MFA General Secretary, Dr. Angelo Chetcuti and MFA Vice President, Dr. Matthew Paris, both of whom have retained their positions in crucial committees. Dr. Angelo Chetcuti remains as board member of the National Team Competitions Committee, while Dr. Matthew Paris continues his membership in the Players’ Status, Transfer and Agents, and Match Agents Committee. Their continued involvement ensures that Malta’s perspectives and interests are well-represented in these significant football bodies.

Chairman of the referees committee, Alan Mario Sant, has earned a well-deserved place in the Referee Convention Panel. His experience and motivation will contribute significantly to the enhancement of referee standards and the overall quality of matches. The UEFA Referee Convention Panel oversees all aspects of refereeing in European football, thus ensuring high standards of officiating are maintained.

Serving as the 2nd Vice Chairman of the Governance and Compliance Committee, Charles Deguara brings valuable insights as an independent member. The UEFA Governance and Compliance Committee ensures good governance and adherence to rules within UEFA and European football.

Finally, the Malta FA extends its heartfelt gratitude to Senior Vice President, Ludovico Micallef, who served diligently in various UEFA committees for the past 25 years. His dedication and commitment to the game of football has been instrumental in driving positive changes within the domestic and international football landscape. Due to an age limit restriction, Mr. Micallef could no longer represent the Malta FA in any of the committees. Mr Micallef’s service to football has been remarkable throughout.

Meanwhile in a landmark decision, UEFA has embraced change and inclusivity, announcing a new composition for its committees and panels for the 2023-2027 mandate. Approved by the UEFA Executive Committee, these changes are effective immediately and will shape the future of European football governance until 30th June 2027. The introduction of more female committee members was a top priority for UEFA, and the results have been promising, with a significant increase in female representation across all committees, rising from 52% during the 2019-2023 mandate to an impressive 75% for the current term. The substantial surge in female committee members aligns perfectly with UEFA’s vision for a more diverse and inclusive football community.