MRFU to introduce U-17 national team

Kevin Buttigieg, the head of the Malta Rugby Football Union (MRFU) recently said that his organisation is planning to lay special emphasis on its junior categories next season. The plans include setting up a national U-17 team and to further enhance the development of the game by introducing rugby in schools.

Buttigieg was speaking during an annual Union meeting at the Radisson SAS where a presentation of trophies to the various winners and achievers of the past season took place.

"With the success that has been achieved this year by the national team, sponsored by Cisk Lager and Barclays, doors have been opening that in the past were all closed," Buttigieg said.

"Through these new paths we will find much more opportunities whereby rugby in Malta can be further developed. We'll also be gaining more experience through playing against visiting foreign sides."

In fact, it was revealed that Malta, boosted by their European Championship success in Pool C last season, will be playing two international matches in November - at home against Lithuania (23rd) and away to Austria (30th).

These fixtures will be followed by the game versus Luxembourg at home on March 29 next year and Bosnia (away) on April 5.

The MRFU is looking to have its U-17 national team figuring in a tournament in Croatia next May.

One of the main goals of the MRFU is to have a Tag Rugby in as many schools as possible.

In December, the Union will be holding Tag Rugby mini-tournament which gives youngsters the opportunity to compete against other schools.

"To enhance the development of rugby in Malta," he said, "we have made a huge step forward by employing Graham Richards as the national coach and director of rugby. He has tremendous experience involving senior, youth and schools rugby."

Buttigieg thanked all sponsors and the Sports Secretariat. On behalf of the MRFU he extended his gratitude to former coach Nigel Bennett whose retirement, due to health reasons, was deeply felt by the Union, as well as all supporters.

New coach Richards also made a motivational speech to all the playing members attending the activity. Ray Grech, General Manager at Farsons, and Barclays CEO Richard Wallace presented the trophies.

Kavallieri RFC were the winners of the Ray Elliot Challenge Cup, the Barclays League 2001/02 and the Barclays Cup 2002.

Alligators RFC were presented with the Guinness Cup for winning the Malta VIIs Series.

Michael Scholey was presented with the Top Try Scorer of the League, David Gasan the Best Player trophy and Joe Sultana with the Best National Team Player award. Stuart Middleton was presented with a memento for his long service to the Union.