Encouraged by some creditable results in the latter part of their maiden season, Valletta Lions are determined to make a bigger impact in 2009-2010.

Joe Caruana Curran, the president of Valletta Lions, yesterday outlined the club's objectives for next season during an open-air news conference in Sta Lucia Street.

"At the start of last season, we didn't expect great things from our team, but we viewed our participation in the league as a very positive step," Caruana Curran said

"Nonetheless, as the season progressed, the team improved and gained a series of positive results which exceeded our expectations.

"After the first year, we sat down to set new targets for our team. Our aim for next season is to be more competitive but we also want to safeguard the social identity of our club. A substantial number of players have joined us for next season. Our present squad is a mix of upcoming and experienced players."

Roger Davies, the first coach of Valletta Lions, has been appointed director of rugby but he will continue to form part of the club's coaching team. Steve Busuttil, a former rugby player and international referee, has also joined the Lions' coaching staff.

Davies is confident that Valletta Lions can take their game to a higher level next season.

"Last year was our first big step in the rugby world," Davies said.

"We did better than expected. Our players showed that with the right attitude and commitment, they can play this game. I know that the second year is going to be harder than the first but we can improve."

Busuttil shares Davies's view.

"It's not easy to form a new team. Valletta Lions certainly deserve credit for their commendable performance in their first season," he said.

"Our goal is to build on this promising start."

In addition to their efforts to strengthen the senior squad, Valletta Lions are keen to create teams for women, youths and juniors.

At their recently-held annual general meeting, the members who served on the committee last season were all confirmed. Josef Mizzi has been added to the committee. Noel Borg, the Lions player who suffered a serious injury last year, has now been named team manager.

For more details on Valletta Lions, visit www.vallettalionsrfc.com.