The Malta Handball Association has taken another significant step forward in its long-term development strategy, as both the men’s and women’s national beach handball teams returned from an intense summer of international competition.
The campaign began with participation in the Calise Cup in Italy, where both teams gained valuable match experience. It culminated in a historic debut for the men’s national team at the Beach Handball EURO 2025 in Alanya, Turkey. This was a major milestone in Malta’s beach handball journey.
Historic Debut on the European Stage
Drawn in a tough Group A, Malta’s men’s team faced a formidable lineup that included four-time European and world champions Croatia, two-time European champions Denmark, and experienced contenders Poland.
Malta opened against Denmark, showing grit in the first set before Denmark’s experience took control. The match against Croatia highlighted the gulf in class but also Malta’s perseverance. Against Poland, Malta led by two goals in the second set and came close to extending their lead further, but a missed scoring opportunity proved costly as Poland overturned the game.
In the placement matches, Malta faced Czechia, Bulgaria, and Ukraine. The match against Bulgaria was particularly promising, with Malta coming close to its best tournament result. Against Ukraine, Malta improved further, although the physical dominance of the Ukrainian side made the difference.
At the end of the competition, Malta placed third in the Fair Play rankings — a reflection of the team’s positive attitude and sportsmanship.
Beach Handball EURO 2025 – Team Malta (Men):
Mauro Camillieri Darmanin, Adhamh Matthew Hackett, Thomas Victor Hackett, Liam Harrison, Christian Richard McClean (Captain), Alan Michael Portelli, Jeremy John Scicluna, Ryan Sciortino, Jacques Samuel Seifert, Benjamin Joseph Spiteri, Matthew Spiteri (Top Scorer – 50 goals), Daniel Tanti Farrugia.
Strategic Preparation and Milestones for Women’s Handball
The Calise Cup served as crucial preparation for the men’s team ahead of the EUROs, providing valuable competitive exposure and a chance to test the team’s playing model.
Notably, the tournament also marked the first-ever international appearance by Malta’s women’s beach handball team. The debut was a strong one — the team recorded three wins against top-level opponents from Hungary, the Netherlands, Poland, and Italy, ultimately finishing fifth.
Calise Cup – Men’s Squad:
Mauro Camilleri Darmanin, Nico Gambin, Adhamh Hackett, Alan Portelli, Jeremy Scicluna, Jacques Seifert, Ryan Sciortino, Benjamin Spiteri, Matthew Spiteri, Daniel Tanti Farrugia.
Calise Cup – Women’s Squad:
Daryl Azzopardi, Rebecca Bonello, Stephanie Brincat, Raquelle Ciantar, Nicole Ellul, Brenda Mamo, Kimberley Mifsud, Erica Mizzi, Elizabeth Schiavone, Ilenia Xuereb.
A Long-Term Vision for Growth
“These tournaments are part of our long-term plan to build competitive handball teams in Malta,” said Malta Handball Association President Daniel Tabone. “It’s not only about results, but about gaining international experience, refining our systems, and assessing where we stand.”
The Malta Handball Association continues to collaborate closely with the Maltese Olympic Committee to provide athletes with more international opportunities and strengthen the sport across both genders.
Sports Editor
Veteran Journalist
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