The MFA Powerade School Challenge was launched yesterday. This local initiative, organised by the General Soft Drinks Company Ltd in collaboration with the Malta Football Association, aims to cultivate an awareness of the importance living an active lifestyle and having a balanced nutrition among our youths, by illustrating the benefits brought by sports and physical education.

Powerade, as a brand has always been a front runner in the promotion and support of leading sporting events both on a local and international level.

In fact Powerade is the official beverage provider for local football clubs including Valletta FC, B’Kara FC, Qormi FC, Floriana FC, Hamrun FC, Msida FC, Tarxien FC, St.Georges FC, Kirkop FC. Moreover it is also the official sponsor for The Athletics Association, Malta Judo Federation, Table Tennis Academy, FISEC Games, and the Malta Marathon.

On an international level, Powerade is associated with leading sports events and top athletes. In fact it is the official sports drink for Fifa World Cup 2010, and the Olympic Games

“We feel it is important to encourage today’s youths to learn more about healthy lifestyles and through initiatives such as this we feel we can give a valid contribution to our society,” said Martin Agius, Sales & Marketing Manager tal-GSD at a news conference yesterday.

This is a competition in the form of an online quiz, open to students between 11 and 14 years of age. Teams of four students will compete by answering questions related to football and active lifestyle. Among the subjects included are: History of Maltese football and of the National Team, the history of famous Maltese footballers, as well as information about nutrition and active lifestyles.

The top teams will advance to the final rounds of the Challenge, which will be broadcast on national television. The winning team will have the opportunity to travel to Germany with the national team to experience the friendly match against Germany in May 2010 – this match is expected to be confirmed next week.

Moreover the runners up will receive various prizes including HP laptops from Forestals and official Malta Football Association merchandise.

Registrations are to be submitted on the www.Powerade.com.mt website, and must be filled in by a parent or legal guardian. Once registered, a team is to download the study material provided on the site. Teams can start registering already and registrations will be accepted until 20 January 2010. The competition will start in January to coincide with the visit of UEFA president Michel Platini

Among the subjects included are: History of Maltese football and of the national team, the history of famous Maltese footballers, as well as information about nutrition and active lifestyles.