Milly Said, Kappara
Disheartening, confusing decisions
I am a parent of a boy who plays with the San Ġiljan Under 14 waterpolo team. While I was very happy to see San Ġiljan challenging for the league in the water I was bitterly disappointed to see my boy and many of his team-mates cry when points they had deservedly won were deducted by a decision taken by the Aquatic Sports Association.
The ASA appointed a board which decided to uphold the protest lodged by both Sliema and Neptunes who, for this special occasion, decided to put away their rivalry and join forces. Our surprise was due to the fact that only two weeks before a protest on the same issue was not upheld by another independent board made up of different members appointed by the same association.
We witnessed an incredible situation: What was considered admissible within a fortnight became an infringement.
My son, along with other San Ġiljan boys, worked hard and against all odds as the club still has no permit to build an enclosed pool. Nonetheless, training took place throughout the whole year and our boys were trained by committed and qualified coaches. The value of this work was reflected in the team’s results.
Really and truly, Neptunes lost even the legal battle as their first protest was not upheld but some always seem to get a second chance.
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Karl Consiglio
Sep 3rd 2010, 12:19
The San Giljan Waterpolo Club should teach their boys to grow into men and not cry over a few points in a game with a ball in the water.
Lara Micallef
Sep 3rd 2010, 15:43
Is that what it is to you? A few points in a game with a ball in the water. People of your ilk are the ones who dissuade our up-and-coming athletes from turning into sportsmen. I remind you of the famous Pierre de Coubertin saying - “The most important thing in the...........Games is not winning but taking part; the essential thing in life is not conquering but fighting well.” You and other nonsensical supporters like you should learn a lesson from this and put your partisanship aside and for once look at reason. And do not forget the San Giljan boys fought well and won and they are not going to go away. What happened elsewhere and afterwards is the result of provocation caused by gross mis-management..... Little wonder waterpolo is becoming less and less popular. Watch these San Giljan under-14 players in a few years time, Mr Consiglio.........
Lorraine Dowling
Sep 3rd 2010, 17:34
@Lara Micallef - Well said and straight to the point!