The Malta Football Association celebrated part of its 125th anniversary this morning with a heartwarming Festival of Inclusion at the Centenary Stadium, bringing together young players from all walks of life to share their love of football.
MFA President Bjorn Vassallo, Secretary General Dr Maria Azzopardi, and officials from the Youth Football Association (YFA) and Inclusive Football Federation (IFF) were present at the event, alongside coaches, volunteers, and families. The festival saw participation from nurseries affiliated with the YFA, the MFA Girls Academy, Special Olympics Malta, and Frame Football Malta, giving players the chance to showcase their passion for the game on the pitch.
Beyond the matches, attendees were invited to explore the Malta Football Museum, which was opened specially for the occasion, offering children, parents, and coaches a glimpse into the rich history of the sport on the island. The Civil Protection Department also contributed to the festivities, providing a fire truck and demonstrations on fire safety, offering educational moments for the young participants.
Before the opening ceremony, a minute’s silence was observed in memory of Pope Francis.
Speaking at the event, President Vassallo underlined the festival’s spirit of unity and inclusivity.
“Today brought together children from different sectors of the community, offering all of them the chance to feel included, regardless of their abilities,” he said.
Anna Calleja, National Director of Special Olympics Malta, highlighted the importance of such initiatives.
“It was a fantastic opportunity for athletes with disabilities and their peers to come together, learn from each other, and grow as a team,” she explained.
Youth Football Association Vice President Joseph Cassar reinforced the YFA’s commitment to grassroots inclusivity.
“At this level, football must be for everyone. Inclusion is at the heart of everything we do,” Cassar said.
Meanwhile, Rita Darmanin Carbonaro, President of Frame Football Malta, praised the festival as a powerful example of sport’s ability to unite.
“This event showed the true power of sport to connect different communities and give athletes with disabilities a platform to express their passion for football,” she said.
The Festival of Inclusion was a clear reminder that football’s greatest victory lies not only in goals scored, but in the communities it brings together.
