The Malta Sports Journalists Association, in collaboration with Atlas Insurance, has recognised footballer Jake Azzopardi and water polo player Martha Perici Ferrante as the recipients of the Atlas Youth Athlete of the Month Award for May.

Both athletes earned the honour following outstanding performances in their respective sports, continuing to demonstrate the quality and potential of Malta’s emerging sporting talent.

Azzopardi’s Heroics Inspire Valletta Trophy Triumph

Jake Azzopardi was rewarded for his decisive contribution in Valletta FC’s successful Meridianbet FA Trophy campaign.

The young footballer played a pivotal role in the final, scoring Valletta’s crucial equaliser as his side mounted an impressive comeback to secure victory and lift one of Maltese football’s most prestigious trophies.

His performance throughout the match earned widespread praise and culminated in him being named Match MVP, underlining his influence on the occasion and his growing importance within the Valletta squad.

The award represents further recognition of Azzopardi’s development and his ability to deliver on the biggest stage when his team needed him most.

Perici Ferrante Leads Success at Club and International Level

Sharing the monthly honour is Martha Perici Ferrante, whose achievements during May spanned both domestic and international competition.

Perici Ferrante captained Sirens Water Polo Club to Winter League success, demonstrating leadership qualities and consistency throughout the campaign as her side secured domestic silverware.

Her impressive month continued on the international stage as she represented Malta at the Water Polo World Cup Division 2 tournament.

Malta enjoyed a memorable campaign, recording victories over Slovakia, South Africa and Argentina on their way to a historic 10th-place finish. The result marked the highest-ever ranking achieved by a Maltese national water polo team in international competition, representing a significant milestone for the sport locally.

As captain, Perici Ferrante played a central role in Malta’s success, helping guide the national team through one of the most important achievements in Maltese water polo history.

Recognition for April Winner

The presentation ceremony also provided an opportunity to acknowledge April’s Atlas Youth Athlete of the Month recipient, Mireya Bugeja.

Bugeja, who had been abroad during the original award presentation, was present to receive her trophy and be recognised for her achievements.

Celebrating Malta’s Rising Sporting Talent

The Atlas Youth Athlete of the Month Award continues to highlight the accomplishments of Malta’s most promising young athletes across a wide range of sports.

The selection of Jake Azzopardi and Martha Perici Ferrante reflects not only their individual performances during May but also their commitment, dedication and ability to excel at both domestic and international level.

Their achievements serve as an inspiration to the next generation of Maltese athletes and further showcase the strength of youth sport across the country.