The Youth Football Association is delighted to announce the launch  of the ‘Live It With Love Legacy’ initiative on the occasion of Fr Hilary Tagliaferro’s 90th birthday. 

The ‘Live It With Love Legacy’ will provide support to families who are genuinely encountering difficulties to cover the costs related to their children’s football activities at  nursery level, difficult realities that may impede children from pursuing their dream of playing  football. 

Inspired by Fr Hilary’s lifelong service to football and his dedication to fostering youth  development, this support programme will create a new legacy for youth football in Malta,  consistent with Fr Hilary’s values of service, integrity, and love for the game. 

Photo courtesy of www.stephengatt.com

In May 2016, Fr Hilary, who founded the Youth FA 42 years ago, was honoured with the  prestigious UEFA Order of Merit Ruby Award, recognising his extraordinary contribution and  unwavering dedication to the growth of youth football in Malta. In his acceptance speech, Fr  Hilary reflected on his deep passion for both football and faith, stating: 

“I truly believe God is in football too. I am who I am in Jesus Christ. Football is a great  passion. Live it with love.” 

These powerful words have become a guiding principle for the Youth FA, which is now  extending Fr Hilary’s legacy through this new initiative.  

“The programme will ensure that all children, regardless of their financial circumstances,  have the opportunity to participate in youth football, grow in their love for the game, and  develop the values of teamwork, discipline, and fair play that Fr Hilary has always  championed,” Norman Darmanin Demajo, the President of the Youth FA, said. 

The ‘Live It With Love Legacy’ initiative was launched on Monday by the Youth FA President  during an event in honour of Fr Hilary’s 90th birthday, held at the Augustinian Oratory in  Tarxien.

The Youth FA would like to thank The Farsons Foundation who have already pledged their  support for this initiative, as well as other entities who have expressed their interest. Their generous contribution marks the beginning of what we hope will be a wider effort involving  Malta’s leading businesses, coming together to ensure that football remains accessible to all  young players. 

The Youth FA invites the community and businesses alike to participate in this important  programme which epitomises Fr Hilary’s lifelong commitment to nurturing young talent and  serving the community through football.  

“By continuing to live his words – ‘Live it with Love’ – we can ensure that youth football in  Malta remains vibrant and inclusive for generations to come,” Darmanin Demajo said. 

More information about this social responsibility initiative may be obtained by sending an  email to info@theyouthfa.org.mt.