Local game highlighted in Dutch magazine

"The average Dutchman does not know that the waterpolo lover will feel very much at home in Malta. One can state that the game is the number one summer sport in Malta and that waterpolo on the Mediterranean island is just as hot as its climate."

This was stated in a feature published recently by Dutch waterpolo magazine Manmeer and carried in the Exiles Sports Club website.

The article dealt comprehensively with Malta's popular summer sport and gave details of the winter and summer competitions organised by the Aquatic Sports Association of Malta (ASA).

Sirens' 2005 championship triumph last year, Neptunes' success in the knock-out competition and San Giljan's 'double' in the second division were highlighted.

There was also mention of the three categories of youth waterpolo which are the main attractions at the various club pitches every summer.

The Maltese are renowned for their passionate support for their teams, and prevailing rivalries between teams make for a colourful setting accompanied by 'sirenes' and 'bands' at the National Pool at Tal-Qroqq. The article goes on to state that the atmosphere is unique and that waterpolo on the island has a special allure in summer.

Years ago foreign players of repute added more interest to the game, and mention was made of the re-introduction this year of these non-Maltese nationals after an absence of over a decade.

Players of quality from Croatia, Serbia, Italy, Holland, Russia, the Czech Republic and other countries helped the Maltese counterparts to raise the level of waterpolo on the tiny island. More of the same is expected this coming season.

Focusing on the Maltese national team, the Manmeer article said that 'improvement in recent years was evident, although the small population of the island is certainly a limitation.

Coach Pierre Borg has to face difficulties in order to prepare the team adequately. Participation in friendly tournaments is very useful in this respect'.

Club participation in European competitions was also useful but because of financial problems "regular participation of Maltese clubs is only a remote possibility".

The article went on to state that in spite of these constraints Malta placed sixth in the European 'B' competition in 2004.

Although new blood had to be groomed due to the unavailability of some top players, a satisfactory result was achieved.

"Fortunately Maltese clubs produce players who love the game and are willing to dedicate themselves in order to improve their own standards. This shows there is pure love for this sport in this small country.

"It still exists in Malta, an island which is waterpolo crazy," the article concluded.

The feature also served to help Dutch clubs establish contacts through the magazine's website for a possible visit to Malta.

Winter League

The 2006 Wilkinson Sword Winter League continues with a double programme between today and tomorrow.

Current leaders Neptunes will be playing twice starting this afternoon with a match against bottom-placed Marsaxlokk.

Tomorrow, the Reds have a stiffer task ahead when playing Sirens who are seeking to bounce back to winning ways after losing to Sliema 5-4 in their previous outing.