Malta Football Association president Bjorn Vassallo has been appointed as the chairman of the Youth and Amateur Football Committee within UEFA, replacing Poland’s Zbigniew Boniek.
Vassallo’s was one of several appointments made by the European governing body of football on Thursday as it announced a new composition for its committee and panels for the 2023-2027 mandate.
The Malta FA said in a statement that Vassallo’s appointment signifies UEFA’s recognition of Malta’s contribution to European football development.
“The UEFA Youth and Amateur Football Committee oversees youth football development in Europe. It focuses on promoting grassroots football, organizing youth competitions, and supporting talent identification programmes,” the Malta FA said in a statement.
“The committee also emphasises player welfare and safety, fosters coaching education, and advocates for integration and inclusion within the sport.
“By collaborating with national associations and stakeholders, it strives to make football accessible to all and communicates UEFA’s vision for the growth of youth and amateur football across the continent.”
The MFA said that beyond this role, MFA president Vassallo has been also actively contributing to UEFA’s broader vision as a member of the UEFA Strategy Steering Committee.
“This working group, has been established recently to develop a new UEFA Strategy for 2024-2030. The UEFA Strategy Steering Committee has completed an initial consultation phase internally and engaged in bilateral discussions with UEFA Senior Management,” the MFA said.
“Presently, the group is diligently working on the formulation of the UEFA Strategy 2024-2030, which will be structured around key objectives, while staying aligned with the core mission, vision, and principles of UEFA and European football.
“The feedback and insights garnered from various stakeholders are proving invaluable in shaping the future trajectory of UEFA.
“Emphasising collaboration and inclusivity, the UEFA Strategy 2024-2030 will strive to address pertinent challenges, optimize opportunities, and bolster the growth and sustainability of European football.”
Meanwhile, MFA general secretary Angelo Chetcuti and vice-president Matthew Paris have also retained their place in important committees.
Dr Chetcuti remains as board member of the National Team Competitions Committee, while Dr Paris continues his membership in the Players’ Status, Transfer and Agents, and Match Agents Committee.
“Their continued involvement ensures that Malta’s perspectives and interests are well-represented in these significant football bodies,” the MFA said.
“Chairman of the referees committee, Alan Mario Sant, has earned a place in the Referee Convention Panel.
“His experience and motivation will contribute significantly to the enhancement of referee standards and the overall quality of matches. The UEFA Referee Convention Panel oversees all aspects of refereeing in European football, thus ensuring high standards of officiating are maintained.”
On the other hand, Charles Deguara will retain his place as second vice-chairman of the Governance and Compliance Committee which ensures good governance and adherence to rules within UEFA and European football.
The Malta FA concluded its statement by paying tribute to senior vice president, Ludovico Micallef, who served diligently in various UEFA committees for the past 25 years.
“His dedication and commitment to the game of football has been instrumental in driving positive changes within the domestic and international football landscape,” the MFA said.
“Due to an age limit restriction, Micallef could no longer represent the Malta FA in any of the committees but his service to football has been remarkable throughout.”
