The Aquatic Sports Association of Malta (ASA), in collaboration with Bank of Valletta (BOV), has announced a major revamp of the BOV Water Polo competitions as part of celebrations marking the ASA’s 100th anniversary.
The new format was unveiled during a press conference addressed by ASA President Karl Izzo and BOV Chief Operations Officer Ernest Agius, with ASA Vice President for Water Polo Andrew Paris and General Secretary George Farrugia also in attendance, along with representatives from local clubs.
“This revamp is designed to enhance competitiveness, boost fan engagement, and raise the overall standard of the game across all participating clubs,” said ASA President Karl Izzo.
Key Features of the New Format
Under the new structure:
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The top four clubs from last season—Sliema (champions), San Giljan, Neptunes, and Sirens—will automatically qualify for the BOV Premier League.
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The bottom two Premier League teams, Valletta and Birżebbuġa, will enter a round-robin play-off with Marsaxlokk and Exiles, the top two clubs from last season’s First Division. The top two teams from this mini-league will earn spots in the Premier League.
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Ta’ Xbiex, Otters, Marsascala, and Barracudas will compete in the BOV First Division League.
Both divisions will follow a double round-robin format, with the top four teams advancing to the playoffs, scheduled for 26–30 August 2025.
The traditional Santa Marija week in August will feature knockout competitions for both divisions, culminating in the finals on 14 August.
In a significant change aimed at speeding up the pace of play, the BOV Championship will adopt new competition rules, including:
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A smaller 25-metre pitch
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Shorter possession times and second attack clocks
These updates are expected to lead to faster transitions, more dynamic play, and greater emphasis on offensive strategies.
Women’s League and Centenary Cup
The BOV Women’s League will run concurrently throughout the summer. The three participating teams—Sirens, Sliema, and San Giljan—will compete for the BOV ASA Centenary Cup.
A Celebratory Milestone
“This year marks a century of excellence for the ASA, coming just one year after BOV celebrated its own 50th anniversary,” said BOV COO Ernest Agius. “Bank of Valletta is proud to have supported the ASA since 2008. Our partnership has contributed to the growth of water polo in Malta, as evidenced by the national team’s recent qualification for the European Championships for the sixth consecutive time.”
The new format underscores the ASA’s commitment to evolving the sport, celebrating its legacy while investing in a more competitive and fan-friendly future.
Sports Editor
Veteran Journalist
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