MLBA names squad for Commonwealth Games
Seven players have been selected to represent Malta in this year's Commonwealth Games in India, the Malta Lawn Bowls Association (MLBA) said. The men's selection trials camp was held at the Warilla Bowling Complex, near Wollongong. Carmen Spiteri, who...
Seven players have been selected to represent Malta in this year's Commonwealth Games in India, the Malta Lawn Bowls Association (MLBA) said.
The men's selection trials camp was held at the Warilla Bowling Complex, near Wollongong.
Carmen Spiteri, who had already secured her spot in the Maltese squad, also formed part of the contingent.
Players took part in 30 games each to try and claim any of the six spots available, namely singles, pairs and triples.
The selection panel was comprised of national coach Troy Somerville, Crawford Linton (assistant coach) and John Zammit. Somerville replaced Rex Johnston at the helm of the Maltese squad after the latter was appointed Australia coach.
Malta's squad for the Commonwealth Games will be made up of the following players: Carmen Spiteri (women's singles); Shaun Parnis (men's singles); Brendan Aquilina and Frank Vella (pairs); Mick Debono, Joe Saragozza and Lennie Callus (triples).
The team's manager is John Borg while Peter Ellul is the second reserve.
Alan Gauci, the MLBA administrator, said the last few months have been extremely busy for his association with other important games in the pipeline.
He was referring to the World Cup men's and women's singles next month at Warilla, where three Maltese players will be competing - Parnis in men's singles, Aquilina in men's juniors and Spiteri in women's singles.
Meanwhile, Malta launched its 'Way to India 2010' programme for its Commonwealth Games lawn bowls team at Rosehill Bowling Club in Sydney earlier this month.
Fifteen bowlers, all based in Australia, gave a series of seven exhibition matches. Three of these matches were 'friendlies' against Japan and Thailand.
The draw-card game was a six-a-side match between Maltese bowlers based in New South Wales against another six based in Victoria. The NSW side won easily to claim the Malta Trophy.
Meanwhile, Gauci appealed to Maltese companies to pledge their support to Malta's lawn bowls team. More information may be obtained by sending an email to emmg@optusnet.com.au.