Hungarian folk singing and dancing dominated yesterday’s opening ceremony of the 59th edition of the FISEC games in Nyiregyhaza, Hungary.

The ceremony took place at the Sostoi stadium and was attended by all the contingents taking part in the games.

The ceremony kicked off with the presentation of the contingents, including the Maltese group of athletes and coaches led by Bro Martin Borg fsc.

The participants were addressed by, among others, Nyiregyhaza mayor Laszlone Csabai who said that she, together with all the citizens of Nyiregyhaza, was very proud to be hosting such a large number of youths who are all willing to fight for peace through sports.

Ms Csabai praised the theme “Without sport I would not be who I am” which was chosen for this edition of the games by the organising committee. The phrase is a quote from the late Pope John Paul II.

The organising committee chairman Bela Kerezsi emphasized that Hungary is organising the FISEC games for the second year running and this is something that makes the whole country proud.

The Maltese boys’ handball team (photo) was in action yesterday as they faced host nation Hungary.

The Maltese dominated the first half and were also enjoying an 8-7 advantage.

However victory turned into defeat in the last five minutes of the game as the Hungarians turned the tables to emerge 18-13 winners.

Mark Borg was Malta's best scorer with four goals, followed by Mihaljo Savic with three. The team is led by coach Joe Tanti.

Joe Tanti’s boys will again be in action today as they face France.

The girls’ basketball team will play Hungary while there will also be involvement for the Maltese swimmers and athletes.