Just over 200 volunteers and 35 players will be dedicating this weekend to a gruelling 52-hour Volleyball marathon to raise funds for Dar tal-Providenza.

The marathon has been organised by Dar tal-Providenza, five years after the last fund-raising marathon for the Home was held by the Kerygma Movement. Dar tal-Providenza needs €13,000 per day.

It was Fr Martin Micallef, the director of the Home, who had contacted Natasha Pace, one of the players, in order to discuss reviving the marathon.

Ms Pace, who will be taking part for the 15th time, soon contacted coach Nello Calleja and the three started putting the idea into a better perspective.

Ms Pace told timesofmalta.com that while the training sessions in the weeks before the marathon were exhausting, the fact that the Dar tal-Providenza would benefit from the sacrifice was a great motivator.

Television personality Ray Attard, shared her view, saying that people may not appreciate the very basic things in life, whereas the less fortunate constantly needed the help of others.

The 35 players started training for the marathon more than a month ago having a minimum of eight hours training weekly.

Last weekend they had a 12-hour night training camp.

President George Abela and Archbishop Paul Cremona was among those who met them to thank them for their sacrifices for the less fortunate.

Dr Abela said this was the kind of experiencewhich the players would eventually recount to their children. He also praised them for setting an example to society.

The marathon kicks off at 7 p.m. on Friday at the car park of Dar tal-Providenza, and comes to an end on Sunday at 11 p.m. Donations can be made on the following numbers: for €7 call on 5004 9553; €12, 5004 9555; and €23, 50049550. Meanwhile, €7 SMS donations can be made on 5061 8938.

All are welcome to visit.