The 2006/07 hockey season gets under way on Sunday with the Super Cup Final between double winners Rabat Depiro and K.O. Finalists Sliema Hs.
For Rabat Depiro this will be their ninth Super Cup Final, their fifth in succession. Of the previous eight they have won seven, the last four in succession.
On their part Sliema’s record in the Super Cup is rather dismal even though they have contested seven finals. Their last appearance in the Super Cup goes back to 2001 and the last of their two victories was way back in 1994.
The theme for this season is pretty much the same of recent years: Who will stop Rabat Depiro from yet another dominant season?
Their record in the past three seasons has been incredible with three consecutive doubles, three Super Cup victories and a Challenge Cup.
Out of twelve honours they have picked up ten leaving the 2003 and 2004 Challenge Cups to Young Stars.
To cap an incredible period, in May 2006, they won promotion to the EuroHockey Club Champions Challenge I and between the 24 and 27 May 2007 they will be Rome to defend this position.
On their part, Sliema’s recent history has not set many houses on fire but last year’s performance should give the club officials much needed hope.
They lost the League runner - up spot in a decider with Young Stars and then lost the K.O. Final 3-2 against Rabat.
To their credit Sliema recently picked up the summer indoor league for the first time in their history.
Next year Sliema Hotsticks will also be participating in European competitions, making their European debut when they host the 18th EuroHockey Cup Winners Challenge at Corradino between the 5th and 8th April 2007.
The Super Cup will start at 9.00am and will be decided with extra-time (golden goal) and penalties if necessary.
This will be followed by a marathon clean up of the Kordin Hockey Complex by club members (young and old), parents, families and any volunteers who might wish to come along.
The opening of the hockey season will come to an end with the presentation of awards for season 2005/006 for both categories, namely juniors and seniors.