The Malta Eight Ball Federation (MEBF) was founded recently with the aim of attracting more players to the tables while promoting the sport across the Maltese islands with a series of activities that will include regular competitions on a national scale.

In a statement, federation secretary Kenneth Mallia Milanes said the new cue sport organisation already boasts 30 teams with a membership of around 300 players from different parts of the island.

“The response was outstanding,” he said.

“We are looking to finalise our calendar for the new season and we will seek to cater for individual players and team events. Season 2012-13 will be packed with eight-ball activities.

“There will be a six-a-side league, the knock-out tournament and the Heineken Cup. In fact, all our competitions will be sponsored by Heineken.

“For now, we’ve established these three competitions as our major events.”

The federation has just hosted its first ranking tournament at the Juventus Supporters Club in Birkirkara.

The Open tournament was won by Kevin Schembri who beat Mario Scicluna in the final. The U-23 honour went to Nicky Spiteri. He had the better of Owen Amato in the decisive match.

There was also an event for U-18 players and the winner here was Leon Caruana with strong challenger Miguel Amato the runner-up.

Mallia Milanes said the federation is currently engaged in talks with their international counterparts to affiliate with the European Blackball Association (EBA).

If registration is completed in time, the federation is likely to field teams at the EBA Championships which will be played in Yorkshire, England, next March.

One may obtain more details by phoning 9942-0429 or email the MEBF at info@m8bf.com.