Watch: MSCA says safeguarding integrity of coaches crucial after Mosta FC president’s comments

The Malta Sports Coaches Association has called on the importance of safeguarding the integrity of coaching following comments made by Mosta FC president George Galea on a TV programme last month.

Galea stirred controversy after making bold claims on how some parents try to influence youth football selections, suggesting that they start sexual relationships with a coach so that their son is selected in the team to play.

The Mosta FC president said that this was an issue that affects many clubs in Malta.

The comments stirred a lot of controversy on social media and the MSCA has made it clear that unethical behaviour from coaches is unacceptable.

“The MSCA wishes to make it unequivocally clear that any form of unethical behaviour, abuse of power, or actions that compromise the welfare and safeguarding of athletes are wholly unacceptable,” it said in a statement.

“If such situations occur, they must be tackled with the utmost seriousness, in line with established safeguarding procedures and within a clear legislative framework.

“Abuse of trust within the coach-athlete-parent relationship is not only unethical but constitutes a serious violation of safeguarding principles.

“At the same time, we believe it is essential to recognise that if such behaviours do exist, they represent the actions of a very small minority.

“They do not reflect the standards upheld by the vast majority of coaches in Malta, who consistently demonstrate professionalism, dedication, and a genuine commitment to the development, well-being, and positive experiences of their athletes. Their passion and hard work remain the cornerstone of Maltese sport.”

The MSCA also acknowledged that clubs and associations have the right and the responsibility to address any safeguarding concerns or unethical behaviour within their structures.

However, the MSCA said they need the appropriate legislative frameworks, policies, and support systems to handle these issues effectively and justly.

“Strengthening these frameworks will further empower clubs and associations to create safe and supportive environments for all involved in sport,” it added.

As an association, the MSCA is committed to supporting this process through continuous education and the provision of resources that enable coaches to operate according to the highest ethical standards expected of their profession.

“This year alone, over 100 coaches from various sporting disciplines successfully completed the Safe Sport for Coaches course, delivered in collaboration with Sport Coaching Europe through the European-funded CICEE-T project.

“This initiative is a reflection of our ongoing commitment to safeguarding, coach education, and the professional development of coaches across Malta.”

The MSCA ended her statement by encouraging open dialogue and collective action to foster environments where coaches, athletes, parents, and all stakeholders work together in a spirit of trust, integrity, and mutual respect.

“The MSCA remains steadfast in its mission to uphold and promote the highest standards in coaching, for the benefit of Maltese sport and the communities it serves,” the association concluded.