Maltese Olympic Committee launchesYouth Development Scheme
The Maltese Olympic Committee have announced the launch of the Youth Development Scheme. Previously known as the Youth Elite Scheme. The revised Scheme continues to build on the previous scheme and now includes six categories for athletes born between 2004 and 2009 as well as a category for athletes aged 18+.
The selection criteria is based on the athletes’ projected performance level of each nominated athlete and for which input of the athlete’s coach and affiliated Federation was taken into account.
All MOC affiliated Federations and Association were invited to submit their nominations. All received nominations were thoroughly vetted by a selection Committee set up by the MOC.
Coaches were required to fill in assessments.
“The Maltese Olympic Committee is thoroughly satisfied with the level of ongoing communication and close collaboration with all Federations. This kind of cooperation ensures the best possible environment for our athletes to grow and reach their potential” explained Johanna Grech, Youth Commission Chair.
Apart from having a selection process based on technical criteria and performance trajectory, the Committee’s projected outcomes from the Youth Development Scheme are three fold – Investment in holistic athlete development, establishment of an ongoing development journey and building one team for Malta.
Athletes’ placement in one of the six categories were based on their projected performance trajectory.
Category I - Global Championships /Olympic Games 4 athletes
Category II - Continental Championships / Global Youth Games 12 athletes
Category III - GSSE Medallist 20 athletes
Category IV - Maltese Champion 35 athletes
Category V - Youth Development Pool 30 athletes Intermediate +18
Apart from financial funding athletes will also benefit from a number of services such as the use of the Functional Diagnostic Laboratory, Sports Psychologist, Sports Nutritionist,
Athletic Trainer and other approved services that might be required from time to time. The
chosen athletes will undergo regular evaluation and mentoring to ensure they gain the correct guidance and encouragement.
“The Maltese Olympic Committee continues with its commitment to invest in the future of sport. The selected athletes have not only shown commitment and dedication but have already proven themselves by achieving some very impressive results. The amount being invested which is over €70,000 will contribute towards the athletes achieving their full potential. The MOC takes the opportunity to thank Sport Malta for their contribution towards this scheme” concluded Ju - lian Pace Bonello, President, Maltese Olympic Committee.
More information on the Youth Development Scheme can be found on https:// nocmalta. org/ youthsection/#youth-developmentscheme