Sliema Wanderers yesterday launched their 2010 calendar during a media conference at the Le Meridien St Julians Hotel.
In recent years, president Steve Abela and the Sliema committee have increased their efforts to boost the club's image. This time round, the Blues opted for a 'new concept' calendar which features all 22 players in Sliema's squad.
Club president Abela expressed his satisfaction at the end-product.
"The quality of this calendar offers a true reflection of Sliema Wanderers FC and will surely raise our image in the eyes of local football fans," he said.
"A calendar of this type is innovative for the local market and it is no secret that we looked at foreign publications when choosing the design. We hope that, in the years to come, we can improve on this to further promote the image of our club," added Abela.
The 24-page calendar includes a full-page image of every player and one of president Abela himself. The last page is dedicated to Sliema's achievements this year, namely the U*BET FA Trophy, BOV Super Cup and the Centennial Cup.
The official launch of the publication will be held this evening during a social gathering for the Sliema fans, players, technical staff and committee members at Le Meridien.
The calendar will be on sale from the club at the price of €10.
Last season, the Blues became the first Maltese club to amass 20 FA Trophy triumphs. Abela explained that the Sliema shirts this season feature a badge that commemorates this feat.
Abela also announced yesterday that the club's new sports complex in Tignè is now completed.
He called on the government and Kunsill Malti għall-iSport to speed up proceedings for the Wanderers to start making use of this new venue and the modern facilities it offers.
Current form
Sliema were expected to challenge for the top positions in the Premier League this term but their performances so far have not lived up to expectations. The Blues are currently sixth in the table, nine points behind leaders Qormi.
Abela conceded that Sliema played below par in the first three months of the season and no-one at the club was happy with the situation.
According to coach Stephen Azzopardi, new signings need time to settle and this contributed to the team's difficult start.
Asked about Sliema's objectives for the season, Azzopardi said: "Our target is to better last season's fourth-place finish."
Abela then gave a strong indication that Sliema will be looking to change two of their three foreign players next month. Romanian defender Lucian Dronca has been confirmed until the end of the season but Nigerian Henry Isaac and Brazilian goalkeeper Gustavo Lima are likely to be released.
"At the moment, we are looking at various options to bolster our squad in January," Abela said.
"On the other hand, we value the young talent at the club and Miguel Ciantar's loan move to Msida is proof of this.
"The transfer is intended for Ciantar to gain more experience and hopefully he will play a more prominent role for us next season."