New committee outlines agenda for next season

At the annual general meeting of the Malta Rugby Football Union (MRFU), held recently at the National Swimming Pool complex, a new committee for next season was elected.

Adrian Wirth has been elected president of the MRFU. The other committee officials are Pierre Mangion (treasurer), Michael Beerman (secretary), Karen Borg (youth development), Piers Allen (PR & marketing), Charles Borda (house services & equipment) and Pierre Azzopardi (clubs).

Donald Hewer has been chosen to represent the Malta Rugby Referees Association as an ex-officio member.

The general meeting expressed a vote of thanks and appreciation to former national coach Graham Richards for his hard work and commitment to the local game, the national team and the youth development group.

Graham's contribution is reflected in Malta's rapid progress on the international scene. Since joining the International Rugby Board six years ago, Malta has risen in the ranking from 96th to 58th.

The new committee has already drawn up a set of priorities, namely the appointment of a new national coach, the enhancement of the youth development group, the provision of resources to meet the growing demands of the game, the introduction of a training regime and accreditation for Maltese referees and the continued international success of the national side.

Junior rugby in schools and the youth development programmes, managed by Karen Borg with the unstinting support of Christoffel Diamantino, will also receive special attention as this sector holds the key to the future of the Maltese game.

Apart from its commitment to the men's national team who won three out of four of their 2003/2004 European Nations Cup games, the MRFU also supports women's rugby in Malta which is growing fast, an MRFU statement said.

International series

The 2004-2005 season heralds a very challenging International series with the first game against Switzerland in November.

"It may not always be mentioned that even at this early stage, rugby in Malta is making a significant contribution to the development of sports tourism," Mr Wirth, the MRFU president, was quoted as saying.

"Further development of rugby in this area is planned. Every opportunity to maximise the resources and opportunities is being explored.

"In addition to the four internationals, a youth training camp, an U-17 tournament and visits to Malta by a number of European club sides are already on the agenda for the coming season," Mr Wirth said.

Further information on the MRFU may be obtained by contacting the secretary on 9929 6099 or email secretary@mrfu.org.