During a press conference held in Gudja, The Malta Football Players Association (MFPA) in association with Malta College of Arts, Sciences and Technology (MCAST) and the Institute of Tourism Studies (ITS) launched the “Life After Football” scholarship scheme aimed at retiring football players to begin attending educational courses these two educational entities have to offer.

The main purpose is for footballers to have the opportunity to reach a higher degree of education and qualifications which can eventually help them acquire adequate jobs after hanging up their boots.

In his initial remarks, Dr Galea also remarked that this project marks a very important day in the history of the MFPA since its foundation seven years ago.  The President of the MFPA Dr. Anthony Galea remarked that at the age of 35 years a footballer starts to think about quitting the game and moving on to an alternative livelihood. 

“The Life after Football project embarked with the collaboration of these two educational entities pursues other important milestones, such as the introduction of the policy of collective insurance for members, and the introduction of a Masters degree, thanks to FIFPro,” stated Dr. Galea. 

Carlo Mamo, General Secretary of the MFPA explained that in the first year, preference will be given to applicants having a full-time contract with local clubs. He pointed out that both MCAST and ITS are committing themselves to be flexible with players training in the morning. In such a scenario, lectures can be adjusted within a convenient time accordingly.

The Memorandum of Understanding between the MFPA and MCAST was signed by Mr Victor Satariano, Vice-President of the MCAST Board of Governors, whilst the Memorandum of Understanding between the MFPA and ITS was signed by ITS Chairman, Board of Governors Carlo Micallef.

Apart from the administrative support to prospective applicant players, the MFPA will be offering €100 a month to each student player and a further one-time €500 grant to students to cover expenses related to their studies - apart from the monthly fee offered by the education entity concerned. 

Also present for this press conference were the ITS CEO Pierre Fenech and Partnerships Office Director Louis Aquilina.

The target audience are those players who have recently finished their compulsory education, and are undecided as to whether they should go into the labour market or should further their studies.  

Furthermore, players who are currently in the labour market but wish to pursue further studies in order to improve their career can also apply.

This scholarship seeks to tip the balance in favour of furthering studies, whilst also increasing training time frames.