The Aquatic Sports Association of Malta (ASA), in partnership with Bank of Valletta (BOV), has officially launched the BOV Girls Water Polo Academy. This joint initiative aims to boost female participation in the sport and build a strong future for women’s water polo in Malta.

The academy addresses the current shortage of female players by removing financial barriers and providing professional development pathways.

A Clear Pathway for Female Athletes

The Academy offers a structured four-year development program for girls aged 9 to 12. It provides an inclusive environment where young athletes can build confidence, skill, and ambition.

Key features of the academy include:

• Free Training: Sessions run twice a week all year round.
• Open Eligibility: Girls can join whether they belong to a local club or not.
• Elite Coaching: Training is led by the Women’s National Team technical staff.
• Competition Pathways: Opportunities to play in local leagues and international tournaments.

Elite Leadership and Grassroots Outreach

To discover new talent, the initiative will launch ten free outreach sessions in schools across Malta. This school program introduces the sport to a wider audience and helps scouts identify emerging players.

Selected participants will train under Head Coach Aurélien Cousin and Assistant Coach Anthony Farrugia, who both lead the Women’s National Teams.

Executive Commentary

“The Girls Water Polo Academy represents a significant and long-term investment in the future of women’s water polo in Malta. We firmly believe that talent must be identified, nurtured and supported from an early age. Our goal is to see these girls progress through the sport, become active members of our clubs and, ultimately, have the opportunity to represent Malta at international level.”
— Karl Izzo, President of the ASA

“At the Bank, and through the BOV Foundation, we are committed to creating meaningful opportunities for young people and encouraging wider participation in sport. We are proud to support the BOV Girls Water Polo Academy, because it gives young girls the opportunity to discover their potential, build confidence and pursue their sporting ambitions. Investing in young people today is an investment in the future of our communities.”
— Ernest Agius, Chief Operations Officer at Bank of Valletta