The Youth FA marked its 10th annual seminar, sponsored by Gatorade, by assembling an impressive line-up of speakers and instructors, including UEFA’s technical director Andy Roxburgh who is an old friend of Fr Hilary Tagliaferro, the Youth FA president.

As in previous years, the seminar was divided into two parts. The talks for the nursery administrators were held at the Le Meridien St Julians while Roxburgh gave a lecture and practical session for grassroots coaches at the Luxol stadium.

In his lecture, Roxburgh highlighted the benefits European champions Barcelona gain from their player development policies while his practical session focused on scoring options.

The participants were also addressed by Bjorn Vassallo, the Chief Executive Officer of the Malta FA, and Robert Attard, vice-president of the Youth FA.

Vassallo stressed the importance of investing in grassroots and youth football as children represent the future of the Beautiful Game.

The MFA CEO ended his speech by reminding those present of the appeal made by president Norman Darmanin Demajo for all member clubs and nurseries to step out of the comfort zone and face the challenges that changes bring along.

Beverly Cutajar led an interactive session with the administrators about how to handle stress in their nurseries and Ray Bezzina gave an in-depth explanation about how injuries can be avoided through biomechanical screening.

Robert Gatt, the MFA technical director, gave details about the reactivated regions system while Adrian Casha, the MFA’s refereeing director, looked into the ‘Respect’ initiative.