MFA Chief Executive Officer Bjorn Vassallo told a well attended general meeting yesterday that despite the progress registered over the past four years, there were still a good number of courageous decisions to be taken – all in the interest of football.
Vassallo told those present that the MFA continued working to make local football sustainable through various reforms undertaken to transform the game.
With regards to the past season, Vassallo also spoke about the attractions at the various stadia where competitive football was played. He said the MFA was completely satisfied that the Under 17 championship finals were held so successfully in Malta. He remarked that this challenge was overcome thanks to an excellent organisation, (the local Under 17 team) as well as the participation of the public.
He also mentioned the fact that he association´s finances were again strengthened. “All this has been achieved with the continuous support of the Council, as well as the voluntary work of the members,” he added.
He also spoke at length on the roles of the Executive Committee, the Council, the various committees and boards of the association.
Vassallo also made a strong reference to the Finance Department under the charge of treasurer Ivan Mizzi and his assistant Kurt Loporto.
He said this department was the soul of the association as it manages all that is funding which effects the financial position of each structure.
He went on to mention the various works undertaken on improvements at the Ta´Qali national stadium, the Victor Tedesco Stadium, the Hibernians Stadium and the Gozo Stadium.
He also praised the work done by the Technical Centre under the direction of Robert Gatt who, together with his team, worked hard to continue promoting the game among youths who are the future of the game in Malta.
As to the national team, Vassallo said 2014 was a difficult year but now the interest revolves around our participation in Euro 2016 where Malta faces more tough opponents in Croatia, Italy, Norway, Bulgaria and Azerbaijan.
With regard to the domestic leagues, Vassallo said the MFA was satisfied that there had been a considerable increase in attendances – 9.63 per cent in all divisions.
He went on to mention the fact that there was also some good football and several beautiful goals throughout the Premier League. He said this augurs well for the future of the game in Malta.
He also made a mention about the Referees Department saying that it was growing in stature. There were several appointments for local referees in Europe apart from exchanges with other associations.
Near the end of his speech, Vassallo spoke about the association´s relations. He said: “Our professional relations have been consolidated thanks to the concept and vision of the current administration. Last year, even UEFA showed its confidence in the association´s abilities by handing it the right to stage the Under 17 championship finals. Now it has also been revealed that UEFA is organising a Top Executive Programme and an Executive Committee meeting in Malta in September next year – a true recognition of the excellent professional relationship between the two entities.