During these last years, a dream turned into reality for many Special Olympic football players with mental handicap. Today with the help of UEFA and FIFA and other football authorities in many countries, including Malta, football competitions for these special people are held every year. The football week has become a permanent part of the annual European football calendar.
Dreams come true in Malta for many Special Olympic footballers who have the chance to join regular players in football activities at the weekend.
The tournament is being held with the full approval of the Malta Football Association.
Four nursery teams from the Youth Football Association, Birkirkara, Qormi, Mosta and Valletta are taking part.
The winners of the two semi-finals will qualify for the final which will be held next Saturday, 14th April at the National Stadium Ta Qali. The match will take place during the break between the first and the second of the two Premier League matches on that day. There will be two important League matches – Hibernians against Marsaxlokk and afterwards Valletta will be meeting B’Kara. So one expect a very good crowd which is expected to give all its supports to the Special Olympics players and the two nurseries.
The occasion will surely be a big and memorable event for all Special Olympic players. Many dreams will come true, as they will also have the opportunity to meet many celebrity players from the four Premier League teams.
During the event, with the approval of the MFA, a collection will be held and the public is kindly asked to giver generously. All proceeds will go towards helping these Special Olympic athletes to continue participating in sport.
Next October, Special Olympic Malta will be competing in the World Games to be held in Shangai, China.
In the past Maltese athletes managed to win several medals in different sport.
Special Olympics thanked the Malta Football Association for its support and for donating a handsome trophy for the winning team. The association also thanked the four nurseries taking part and all those helping towards the success of this important event.