Masters Football competitions are becoming more popular all over the world.
In England alone, all leadings clubs, including Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea, Liverpool, Arsenal and Tottenham, all participate in national leagues and games are regularly shown on Sky Sport.
Clubs field six-a-side teams with players over 35 years allowed to take part. Locally, organised Masters Football came to life in 2013 on the initiative of Mario Meli who heads the organisation which is fully recognised and affiliated with the Malta FA.
The number of teams is growing steadily in the local competitions.
Recently, the Masters Football (Malta) season came to a close with a record participation of eight teams who paraded a few former internationals, the likes of Carlo Mamo, Stefan Giglio, Jeffrey Chetcuti and Stefan Sultana among others.
The championship was competitive and remained undecided until the last matchday programme.
Finally, Desana Vintage were crowned champions with Hibernians Masters settling for the runners-up spot. The Paolites made up for missing out on the championship by beating Desana Vintage in the KO final.
The league top scorer was Desana’s William Borg and Chris Muscat, of Rabat, was named player of the year. The Sportsmanship Trophy was shared by Żurrieq Wolves, Versity Legends and Żabbar Masters.
Masters Football (Malta) were remarkably active in 2015-16, holding no fewer than five competitions along the season.
The smooth running of the organisation did not go unnoticed and various partners were attracted to the game including sponsors MSV Life.
The Masters Football (Malta) national team has also been established and the side figured in a few friendlies against local and foreign clubs.
The side, coached by Charles Agius, play a Scottish amateur team in September and plans are also in store to participate in an international tournament abroad.
During a presentations night, held recently, Meli thanked the sponsors and also showed appreciation to club delegates, players and officials “who together with the committee contributed for a very successful season”.
Applications are already open for the new season.
Those showing interest may obtain more details by phoning 9945-0127 and 7945-0372 or email at mar1940mel@gmail.com.