The Hockey Association Malta’s President Gordon Mifsud’s third two-year term as president comes to an end this week. As he had informed the clubs two years ago this was to be his last term in the role. His six years in office has seen the Association strengthen its structure, competitions and external relations both local and International. The Association thanks him for his efforts and contribution to hockey in Malta.
He gave the following comments:
‘These six years as president have been a life experience for me. They have made me reconnect with some old friends but also made me make so many new friends. I love the sport. I have learned so much from the role as well as from each person in the wonderful hockey community.
I would like to thank all the clubs for the cooperation as well as understanding of our size as well as the Association’s limited resources. There was always a sense of cooperation, responsibility and a constructive and mature approach prevailing. This shows everyone’s common interest to improve and develop the game and strengthen the clubs.
I acknowledge that not everything was done perfectly and that that not all goals were reached. But that is the spirit of voluntary organisations and that goodwill and genuine intentions were the order of the day.
Together many challenges have been overcome, new ideas and initiatives implemented. Together we maximised our potential. A lot more needs to be done but the will, skills and people are there to go forward successfully.
I am pleased that a number of long term initiatives have been launched that will contribute to development. These include the Coaching and Umpiring pathways in collaboration with EuroHockey. The Hockey for teachers project is another initiative that sees the Association collaborating with the Government Education Department for the introduction of hockey into primary schools. The international Eurohockey Coaching and Umpiring training experts who visit Malta to passionately undertake the courses deserve thanks.
There are very strong relations with external entities including SportsMalta, AIMS, Malta Olympic Committee, EuroHockey and the International Hockey Federation (FIH). I would like to thank each one of them for their continuous collaboration and support to hockey in Malta.
There are also excellent relations with the media who support our sport and deserve our gratitude.
I would like to thank all players, parents, club officials, Coaches, Umpires , disciplinary commissioner as well as the numerous volunteers and professional assistants for the great work and commitment. Their efforts are what keeps the sport we love going.
I would finally like to thank the members of all the very strong Executive Committees of whom I formed part, for their constant input in their various roles. Thank you for being tolerant with me when it was necessary as I can be demanding. I again thank them all for their mature, sound and impartial advice and decisions they always provided.
I am convinced that the Association will continue to strengthen and will develop and implement the many ideas and goals that it has. I will continue to support the Association with my experience.’ he concluded.
