Neptunes WPSC have once again underlined their status as Malta's premier swimming club after claiming their 12th Long Course Championship title, adding yet another chapter to the club's remarkable history of success.

The prestigious championship victory saw Neptunes collect an outstanding 108 medals, comprising 42 gold, 42 silver and 24 bronze medals, in a dominant display across multiple age groups and events, the club said in a statement.

Already recognised as the most successful club in Maltese swimming history in terms of championship victories, Neptunes' latest triumph reflects a long-term strategy focused on swimmer development, investment, and excellence both in and out of the pool, the statement added.

The championships also produced one of the standout performances of the weekend when Madeline Cassar broke a 28-year-old age group record in the 200m butterfly, rewriting a mark that had stood since 1998 and further highlighting the depth of talent currently emerging from the club's programme.

Investment in the future

Club officials attributed the success not only to the performances delivered at the championships but also to years of sustained investment in athlete development.

Over recent years, Neptunes said the club has significantly increased its commitment to creating world-class opportunities for Maltese swimmers. The club has fully sponsored overseas training camps, subsidised participation in international competitions, and consistently sought to expose athletes to higher levels of competition beyond Malta's shores.

In addition, Neptunes said it has invested heavily in coaching expertise, regularly bringing international coaches to Malta while also turning to leading foreign specialists for guidance, technical advice, and programme development.

The club has also strengthened its infrastructure, most notably through its investment in a new swimming pool at Ta' Qali, giving Neptunes access to two freshwater swimming pools and enhancing training opportunities for swimmers at every level of the programme.

A philosophy built on development

Central to Neptunes' continued success is its philosophy of developing swimmers from grassroots level through to elite competition, the club said.

Club representatives emphasised that the medals and championship victories are the result of years of dedication, careful planning, and a development pathway that nurtures young athletes while providing the support structures required to compete at the highest level.

The club's swimmers were credited as the driving force behind the championship win, with athletes committing countless hours to training, making sacrifices, and consistently pursuing excellence.

Coaching excellence

A key role in the club's success has been played by its coaching team, comprising Gail Rizzo, Amy Micallef, Sean Camilleri and Harrison Stevens, whose dedication and commitment continue to help young swimmers reach their full potential, the club said.

Leading the programme is Head Coach Gürkan Eroksuz, whose leadership and extensive experience have helped establish a high-performance culture throughout the club. Widely respected by swimmers, coaches and parents alike, Eroksuz continues to oversee a programme that has become the benchmark for swimming development in Malta.

Support beyond the pool

The club also paid tribute to Swimming Chairperson Andrea Sammut, whose efforts in creating opportunities for athletes and driving the programme forward have been instrumental in the club's growth.

Acknowledgement was also given to Club President Matthew Bonello for his continued trust and support, as well as to committee members, volunteers, officials, timekeepers and supporters whose contribution often goes unnoticed but remains vital to the club's success.

The role of parents was equally recognised, with club officials thanking families for their unwavering support, trust and commitment throughout the season.

Looking Ahead

With a record-breaking performance, another championship title secured, and a generation of talented swimmers continuing to emerge, Neptunes WPSC appears well positioned to maintain its position at the forefront of Maltese swimming for years to come, the club said.

The club also praised ASA Malta for successfully organising the championships and acknowledged the federation's ongoing efforts to raise standards within the sport.

Neptunes expressed its appreciation to title sponsor Adalvo, whose support continues to contribute to the club's ambitious vision.

For Neptunes WPSC, the 2026 Long Course Championships were more than just another title. They were further proof that a commitment to swimmer development, investment in people and facilities, and a relentless pursuit of excellence continue to yield exceptional results, the club said.