Christos Kousidis with Gzira Athletic president Joe Galea.
Division One side Gzira Athleta announced their new coach ahead of the new season on Tuesday as they named Christos Kousidis.
Kousidis will be taking over his second local side after having been appointed Mellieha Libertas coach back in 2020.
“Joe Galea, Athleta Basketball President, welcomes Christos Kousidis as head coach of Men’s first team. Looking forward to the upcoming season.,” a club statement read.
This confirmation will come as a sign of a push after last season’s troubles. Athleta finished level on points with last-placed team Hibernians last season. Despite the latter and Depiro having started with a points reduction, the Gzira side failed to capitalise on this and so will be aiming to push for change.
Kousidis will have the added challenge of forming his side as the announcement also takes place just days after the 2019 champions lost Malta international and household name Nathan Xuereb.
The 21-year-old, who was part of coach Alan Walls’ squad for both last year’s FIBA Small Countries Championships as well as the Games of the Small States of Europe, was also part of Malta’s contingent in the 3×3 Europe Cup qualifiers. He penned an open letter in June thanking Athleta, saying they “will always be part of the person I have grown into”.
“During the past 13 years, Athleta has been my home, they have helped me improve and grow into the player I am today,” he said.
“This wouldn’t have been possible without the support of all the coaches and teammates I had throughout the years with this club. It’s time for new opportunities, opportunities that I believe will help me become a better version of myself.
“To all those in the basketball community know that Athleta will always hold a special place in my heart, the highs and the lows I went through will always be part of the person I have grown into till today. The emotions I experienced with this team will always be part of my memories. Thank you Gzira Athleta Basketball Club!”
