Malta FA President Bjorn Vassallo stressed on the importance of investment in technical projects, direct support for member clubs and associations while stating that the association rests on a solid foundation with ample scope for further progress and expansion while delivering the closing speech at the Third Ordinary General Assembly which was held on Tuesday.
Speaking on Tuesday, Bjorn Vassallo said “The Association’s work in the technical sphere is both extensive and targeted. It is extensive because we manage a number of national teams across various age categories, and it is targeted because we are strategically guided by a single objective: to develop the players of tomorrow. In the future, this scope will expand and become even more focused, driven by a new national curriculum that we are introducing alongside a reform of the youth sector.”
“At the request of the Executive Board, we conducted a review of the technical projects planned and implemented by the Association. Through our analysis and strategic planning, we have identified the initiatives that will serve as the foundation for our ongoing work in the years ahead.”
Photo courtesy of Malta FA
“This progress can only be sustained through continued collaboration—involving the entire football ecosystem and our key partners—so that, united, we may strengthen the path we have embarked upon.”
“Currently, investment in technical projects, direct support for our member clubs and associations, and the organisation of domestic competitions account for a significant portion of the Association’s expenditure. This is how it should be, for we are a ‘football factory’—where the primary focus must remain solely on the game itself—so that the output yields the results our nation truly deserves.”
“Achieving this requires significant investment, professional guidance, top-tier systems and infrastructure, sound methodology, and immense dedication. We are pleased that the fruits of our labor are now beginning to show; yet, we are not content to rest on our laurels. On the contrary, we aim to consolidate and expand further. As you have heard today, we have announced a vital reform within the grassroots sector, alongside additional technical programs for our national teams, to continue developing future generations of players and coaches. Every instance of financial support and every international partnership we have established—or will continue to forge in the coming months—is, and will remain, aimed at providing ever-better opportunities for our youth.”
“All of this can continue to be achieved through patience and by allowing professionals to work on the mandates set out by this General Assembly and the Association’s other forums. We are currently in an international window for the men’s game—a crucial period for the senior team to maintain consistency in both performance and results—while at other levels, regardless of the specific outcomes, the ultimate goal remains player development.”
“During the youth development phase, it is essential to prioritise the growth of each individual. Remember, our aim is to help every player develop and expand their unique capabilities, while embracing their individuality. At the same time, as players progress through the various stages of their development, they must learn to express their individuality in a way that benefits the team.”
“Football is a team sport; therefore, players must learn the value of teamwork and how to fulfill specific roles within the team structure. However, this must not come at the expense of the development of their individuality during these formative years. This is also why we will require a level of coaching licensure that aligns with our vision for competency-based development throughout the various phases of these reforms and technical projects.”
“We must be able to recognise and value the personal expression of our young players and encourage free play, allowing them to explore and—through creative guidance—push their own boundaries.”
“Only in this way will we succeed in nurturing the next generation, ensuring that both our clubs and our national teams produce players capable of succeeding at higher levels of football.”
“Following today’s session, we will approach the Executive Board to seek approval for these proposed projects. Subsequently, we will intensify consultations, while the MFA works to secure the necessary funding to ensure that operations commence according to the established schedule. Finally, I wish to emphasize that what we have managed to achieve in recent years provides us with the strength and conviction to move forward—with courage and confidence—towards significant decisions from which future generations will benefit.”
“Today’s MFA rests on a solid foundation, with ample scope for further progress and expansion. I am confident that, under capable and skilled leadership, it will continue to succeed for the benefit of football in Malta and Gozo. You are part of this success—you always have been, and I am certain that you always will be,” concluded Bjorn Vassallo.