Two major events were organised in the space of one week by Pembroke Athleta football nursery during last month.

14 teams participated in a floodlight tournament for under 12, under 8 and under 6 age groups . The winners were Pembroke, Mosta and Mosta in their respective category. All the participants were presented with mementoes for the occasion which was enjoyed by all especially the young ones playing for the first time under floodlights at the club’s football ground close to the sea-side.

The second event organised a week later also at the club’s football ground under floodlights, was the annual football marathon which saw the end of this years’ football season.

Events started with a thanksgiving mass by parish priest Anton Portelli. Then children were divided in different teams and participated in five-a-side football games in a mini festival. They also participated in other games like tug-of-war and penalty shoot-outs with special guest ex international goalkeeper, Ernest Barry keeping goal. The boys’ favourite game however was hitting the target i.e. coaches with specially made cakes kindly donated by ‘Simler’ Confectionery of Sliema.

Parents also joined in the fun with a keenly contested ladies match and other football matches with the participation of well known ex internationals - Carmel Busuttil and John Buttigieg who showed that they have lost nothing of their great football skills.

Tourism minister Francis Zammit Dimech found time to visit the ground and joined in the fun sampling the special maltese food available.

Special thanks go also to sponsors Pepsi and Paradise Bay Hotel for their help in making these occasions memorable ones with fun and participation for all members of the family.

The football nursery advises that application forms for this summer football school conducted by qualified coaches and special guests together

With forms for new registrations for next season are available at the sports club in Pembroke after 7 pm.