New projects in the pipeline

The Malta Judo Foundation has taken over the refurbishment of the Sergeants' Mess and the Band's Room in Pembroke.

The Sergeants' Mess required extensive repairs in the ceiling after a large stone from the chimney of a nearby Enemalta Substation fell through the roof, damaging some of the old building slabs.

The Malta Judo Foundation has also stepped up its efforts to prepare for the construction of the long-awaited International Judo Centre. The foundation decided to set up the Malta Judo Academy as its operational branch to promote judo nationally.

Several projects have been discussed and the first initiative is the roving judo classes for all Maltese secondary schools. Most of the schools had met problems in starting judo lessons because of space and instructors, therefore the judo academy will send coaches to offer lessons in the schools.

For those students who want to practise judo more than once a week, the Malta Judo Foundation will offer all those who register in this scheme free judo lessons in the evening at its headquarters in Pembroke.

Another innovation which the foundation is introducing is a special kindergarten class for three-to-four-year-olds.

As Wushu will be affiliated to the Malta Judo Federation at the next annual general meeting, the Malta Judo Foundation will start holding Ti Chi lessons. This will be conducted by specialised expert Chinese instructors, thanks to the collaboration with the international Wushu federation to which the MJF has been affiliated, the Chinese Embassy and the Chinese Cultural Centre.

It is hoped that this project will lead to the formation of an International Cadet Centre offering the services for the professional preparation of a new national team in the very near future.

Judo sessions will start in Pembroke on October 20 and interested persons may contact the Malta Judo Foundation on 21310-463 or 2131-9944.