The Maltese Swimming Association (ASA) has officially announced the swimmers selected to represent Malta at the Swim for Life International Swimming Championship in Abu Dhabi, scheduled for December 13th to 15th, 2024. After a rigorous selection process, the athletes chosen to compete in this prestigious event are:
Boys:
- Matthew Satariano (SLM) – 648 points, 16 years old
- Samuel Camilleri (AQH) – 576 points, 15 years old
Girls:
- Ella Fenech Attard (SIR) – 593 points, 14 years old
- Sophia Allen (SLM) – 590 points, 15 years old
These swimmers achieved the necessary World Aquatics (WA) points through their performances at ASA-approved events between April 1st and November 17th, 2024. Their selections are a testament to their dedication and talent, and they will now have the opportunity to compete at an international level, gaining valuable experience in preparation for future major competitions such as the Games of the Small States of Europe (GSSE) in 2027 and 2029 and the 2028 Olympic Games.
To qualify for the Swim for Life Championship, swimmers had to meet specific eligibility requirements and perform at a high level in ASA-sanctioned competitions. The eligibility criteria were as follows:
- Swimmers must be Maltese citizens born between 2008 and 2010 (14-16 years old).
- They must be registered members of the ASA for the 2024-2025 season.
- They must also be available to fulfill national team commitments.
The ASA’s selection policy focused on achieving minimum WA points in individual events during the selection period. These points were determined based on the swimmer’s age and performance in either Long Course or Short Course events. The WA points required for selection were as follows:
- 14 years old: 420 WA points
- 15 years old: 530 WA points
- 16 years old: 600 WA points
The ASA selected the top two boys and top two girls who met these criteria. If any of these athletes declined their selection, the next highest-ranked swimmers were considered, regardless of gender.
The ASA also announced that the coach selection would prioritize those with the most qualified swimmers. If multiple coaches were eligible, the coach with the highest-ranked swimmer(s) would be chosen. The selected coach must also ensure they are eligible for an Abu Dhabi entry visa.
If any of the top-ranked swimmers decline the invitation to participate, the ASA has identified the next-ranked swimmers who may be called upon to take their place. These swimmers include:
Boys: 3. Oskar Schmidt (AQH) – 567 points, 14 years old
4. Luke Zammit (NEP) – 555 points, 15 years old
Girls: 3. Yulya Anne Bonnici (SLM) – 588 points, 15 years old
4. Madeleine Cassar (NEP) – 560 points, 14 years old
The ASA will continue to monitor the selection status and notify the next eligible swimmers if necessary.
The Maltese delegation is expected to depart for Abu Dhabi on December 12th, returning on December 16th. However, these travel dates are subject to confirmation. This event will offer the selected swimmers an invaluable opportunity to gain international competition experience, furthering their development as they work toward their long-term goals on the global stage.
With the Swim for Life Championship in Abu Dhabi just around the corner, the ASA is excited for the young swimmers to showcase their skills and continue their journey toward representing Malta at the highest levels of competition.
