Successful French spell for Friggieri

Jacques Friggieri, the Maltese 20-year-old handball player, enjoyed a successful playing spell in France as his club, ESMGO, gained two promotions in the French National League, a statement from the Malta Handball Association (MHA) said.

ESMGO's first team was promoted to Division Three while the second outfit moved up to Division Five. Friggieri, who began his playing career with Aloysians Handball Club, was eligible to play for both teams as he is still an U-23 player.

Both teams won their respective championships in style, securing top place earlier than predicted. Friggieri, who also figured in the semi-finals of the Le Havre University Championships, netted an average of two goals per match.

The Maltese player, who started to play regularly in January after fracturing his arm in November, is coached by a former French national team player who won the world championship in 1995.

Looking ahead to next season, Friggieri said that the squad's preparations, which will also include a one-week training camp, are due to start soon.

ESMGO, buoyed by a hefty FINA Oil sponsorship, are aiming high. Their plan is to play Division One handball in two years' time.

Speaking on the Maltese national team, Friggieri believes that the future is indeed bright, especially now that we have three players plying their trade abroad.

Recalling the national team's participation in the third EHF Challenge Trophy held here last December, Friggieri said the team was rather unlucky to miss out on the bronze medal.