The association was established in Malta in 1968 after breaking away from the Malta Sports Association.

There are five teams affiliated with the association. It stages the annual leagues for seniors, Under 14, Under 16 and nine-a-side, apart from the prestigious KO competition.

The national team takes part in the European Chellenge tournaments, one of which was held last September at Corradino. Previously they also took part in European Championships (qualifying), the last one in Dublin. In 1979 the team had also taken part in the Split Mediterranean Games.

Even during the past three years, our champions, Rabat Depiro, took part in the European Club Challenge, the first two of which were organised in Malta.

The installation of an artificial grass surface has contributed to the progress and playing standards of the game.

The holding of international tournaments both at club and national level is now reaping obvious dividends. In fact, I have just been informed that Rabat Depiro, our champions, have just been promoted to Group C of the European Club Challenge after participating successfully in a tournament in Greece.

The national side has also been promoted to Group C.

Clubs are striving hard to develop their nurseries and we shall reap the benefits of their endeavours in future years.

Present projects include the development of female hockey and we shall soon be in a position to have three functional teams.

Junior and senior national sides will also be given priority in the next international commitments.

It is also the intention of the association to develop the game in Gozo.

Needless to say, we need all the help and encouragement on the technical front to be successful and we have found MOC helpful in providing schemes which enhance coaching, umpiring and administrative expertise.

CHRIS BUSUTTIL LEAVER

President Hockey Association of Malta