Nationalist MP Robert Arrigo yesterday handed out 12 sponsorships to sports clubs within his localities, that is Sliema, Msida, Gzira, San Gwann, Swieqi and Gharghur.

The beneficiaries are Sliema Wanderers FC, Gzira United FC, Gharghur FC, San Gwann FC, AtoZ Electronics Athleta (basketball), Stompers (rugby), Gzira Futsal team, bocci clubs of Gzira and Msida and Karen Grech (pool), the latter being away from the island at present as she is taking part in the World Cup.

Arrigo said his company had been in the forefront to present such sponsorships. “We have been doing it for at least four years now, every year making one of two additions to the list of beneficiaries. The amount forked out is substantial, but, of course, not all the entities receive the same amount,” he said.

Arrigo went on to say that it was important for such clubs to get financial and moral support. “We are proud to be helping these clubs. Without such help, they would not be able to run their clubs smoothly. I appeal wholeheartedly to other companies like ours to introduce a form of sponsorship in their localities. I believe that sport gets a big boost through such support,” he added.

Speaking about his expectations from Sliema W. this season (he was a former long serving president of the club), Arrigo said he wished to see the club getting back in European football as soon as possible. “The past year we managed to avoid relegation,” he said jokingly, adding: “Sliema remain a top club and, as such, I expect the team to get back to the top soon.”

Club president Steve Abela said they were all looking forward to the new season. He said: “The acquisitions made so far should help the team to challenge for the top honours. Coach Danilo Doncic has always been a winner. Since his arrival, the team won seven of its last eight matches. We are very optimistic that the team will keep that rhythm this season.”