Pippo Psaila yesterday revealed that trap shooter Frans Pace was possibly on the verge of retirement.

He said during yesterday’s news conference that this was still unofficial, but added it would be a great setback for Maltese sport were Frans not to reconsider his decision.

Psaila said: “Pace is an intelligent, genuine, honest and capable sportsman, someone which Maltese sport still needs badly. He is a role model and still has a lot to offer. He is well respected in his field even abroad. He is the synthesis of what Maltese sport can produce.”

In the past few days, first it was shooter Emmanuel Grima and later athlete Mario Bonello had also announced their intention to retire after a successful career in their respective discipline.

Psaila also made reference to Bonello’s announcement and said the athlete had done a lot for athletics. “But even in his case, I am sure he needs to reflect. The MOC and Maltese athletics still need him,” said the Chef de Mission at the Andorra Games.