The number of teams and schools taking part in the Year 11 Schools Volleyball Tournaments increased significantly this year. Eight new girls’ schools and five new boys’ schools were added to the competition in addition to last year’s teams. Several of these schools were taking part in our competitions for the first time.

To determine the four finalists in both the boys’ and girls’ tournaments, four qualifying rounds—two for the boys and two for the girls—had to be held on four separate days. These four rounds took place at the Cottonera Sports Complex from November 23 to December 11.

There are now 28 schools overall, up from 13 the previous year, representing an overall increase of 115%. There were thirteen boys’ schools in total. The number increased from 8 to 13, a 62% increase over the previous academic year. Conversely, the number of girls’ teams increased from 5 to 15 this year, a 200% increase. Many schools entered teams made up of both boys and girls. The 28 teams, comprising 125 boys and 148 girls, a total of 273 players, came from State, Church, and Independent schools throughout the island.

“We are thrilled that our sport became the most popular amongst school children, just behind football. This is a huge success but also a big responsibility”, Branko Vlahovic, MVA Vice President commented.  “Thanks to CEV support we will make sure that these kids experience the excitement which kept many of us for so long in volleyball. Next summer this project will move to our beaches with beach volleyball introduction to these youngsters”, he concluded.

The boys’ schools present were SMC Verdala Sec, MRC Mosta Lily Sec, St Paul’s Missionary College, STMC ST Lucia Sec, MRC Mosta Zokrija Sec, STMC Zejtun Sec, Stella Maris College, Savio College, SGPC Hamrun Sec, SCC Pembroke Sec, St Martin’s College, SBC Kirkop Sec and St Michael School.

The girls’ schools present were SMC Verdala Sec, MRC Mosta Lily Sec, STMC ST Lucia Sec, MRC Mosta Zokrija Sec, STMC Zejtun Sec, SGPC Hamrun Sec, SCC Pembroke Sec, St Martin’s College, Sacred Heart College, St Michael Foundation, St Catherine School, St Francis School, San Andrea College, St Monica School B’Kara and St Joseph School.

The qualified teams for the finals are MRC Mosta Lily Sec, STMC Zejtun Sec, St Martin’s College and SBC Kirkop Sec in the boys’ category. St Monica B’Kara, San Andrea School, MRC Mosta Lily Sec and St Michael Foundation qualified in the girls’ category.

Shortly after Christmas, on January 11, 2024, the Finals for both categories will take place. Like all four of the previous rounds that have been played, there will undoubtedly be a fantastic atmosphere. As one of the most significant events on the school calendar, a huge congratulations to all the schools and their corresponding teachers for their dedication and support.

Charles Gauci

School Project Manager – Malta Volleyball Association