Youth FA launches ‘Live It With Love Legacy’ initiative

Support for families facing difficulties to cover children’s football-related costs

The Youth Football Association announced the launch of the ‘Live It With Love Legacy’ initiative on the occasion of Fr Hilary Tagliaferro’s 90th birthday.

The ‘Live It With Love Legacy’ will provide support to families who are genuinely encountering difficulties to cover the costs related to their children’s football activities at nursery level, difficult realities that may impede children from pursuing their dream of playing football.

Inspired by Fr Hilary’s lifelong service to football and his dedication to fostering youth development, this support programme will create a new legacy for youth football in Malta, consistent with Fr Hilary’s values of service, integrity, and love for the game.

In May 2016, Fr Hilary, who founded the Youth FA 42 years ago, was honoured with the prestigious UEFA Order of Merit Ruby Award, recognising his extraordinary contribution and unwavering dedication to the growth of youth football in Malta.

In his acceptance speech, Fr Hilary reflected on his deep passion for both football and faith, stating: “I truly believe God is in football too. I am who I am in Jesus Christ. Football is a great passion. Live it with love.”

These powerful words have become a guiding principle for the Youth FA, which is now extending Fr Hilary’s legacy through this new initiative.

“The programme will ensure that all children, regardless of their financial circumstances, have the opportunity to participate in youth football, grow in their love for the game, and develop the values of teamwork, discipline, and fair play that Fr Hilary has always championed,” Norman Darmanin Demajo, the President of the Youth FA, said.

The ‘Live It With Love Legacy’ initiative was launched on Monday by the Youth FA president during an event in honour of Fr Hilary’s 90th birthday, held at the Augustinian Oratory in Tarxien.

The Youth FA thanked the Farsons Foundation who have already pledged their support for this initiative, as well as other entities who have expressed their interest.

Their generous contribution marks the beginning of what we hope will be a wider effort involving Malta’s leading businesses, coming together to ensure that football remains accessible to all young players.

The Youth FA invites the community and businesses alike to participate in this important programme which epitomises Fr Hilary’s lifelong commitment to nurturing young talent and serving the community through football.

“By continuing to live his words – ‘Live it with Love’ – we can ensure that youth football in Malta remains vibrant and inclusive for generations to come,” Darmanin Demajo said.

More information about this social responsibility initiative may be obtained by sending an email to info@theyouthfa.org.mt.