The Malta Netball Association (MNA) is planning to take part in the U-17 European Championship in two years' time.

This was announced recently during the association's presentations night where last season's winning teams and best performers were awarded for their achievements.

MNA president Romina Carabott, Vivianne Gatt, Netball Europe head, and Malta Olympic Committee secretary Joe Cassar were the main speakers on the occasion.

The highlight in their speeches was the introduction of more young players to the game.

Last season, played indoors at the University Sports Hall for the first time, six teams contested the Under-21 championship.

This was an encouraging sign, Carabott said, an added incentive for the association in its bid to field a Maltese team in the European Under-17 Championship in 2006.

Keen and balanced play was evidenced in competitions for Division One teams with Fuego Champs and All Ages Eurochange providing most of the excitement.

This inevitably helped to upgrade the standard of the game and now the association intends to keep the momentum going.

The annual general meeting is planned for September 29 but first indications look encouraging as a number of teams have already shown their interest in MNA 2004/05 competitions.

Roll of honour

(season 2003-04)

First Division: 1. Fuego Champs; 2. All Ages Eurochange.

Second Division: 1. Ta' Xbiex ASC Wolverines; 2. New Ages.

KO competition: 1. Fuego Champs; 2. All Ages Eurochange.

Challenge Trophy: 1. All Ages Eurochange; 2. Fuego Champs.

Fair Play Trophy: Mellieha.

Best players: Yvonne Barry (Div. I - Fuego Champs); Tanya Bugeja (Div. II - Mellieha)

U-21 League: 1. All Ages Too; 2. Marsascala Angels.

Best Players - U/21 teams: Stephanie Gouder (All Ages); Lara Camilleri (Marsascala); Tanya Abela (Bangos); Simona Buttigieg (Mellieha); Vanessa Zammit (NRG); Nadia Turban (Kaizers).

Official of the Year: Romina Carabott.