Physical training in focus in Malta

The Malta Football Association (MFA), in cooperation with UEFA, is running its first course for physical trainers in football.

The course, which began on 17 April and runs until 6 June, takes the form of six modules, each covered during a weekend of study. Successful candidates will receive an MFA diploma.

Luca Pagani, the association's chief physical trainer, told UEFA.com how the course works. "It is intended either for individuals who have graduated in sport sciences, or for physiotherapists and those working in sports medicine," he said.

"Each of the six weekend modules takes 12 hours. Participants then sit a final exam. The main objective is to teach the theoretical and methodological basis of physical training – uniting theory and best practice."

The course, held at the MFA training centre at Ta'Qali, features lectures from experts in the field and academics, with the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) providing some of the keynote speakers. The study agenda includes topics such as sports and exercise science, sports medicine and exercise physiology, and first aid.

MFA president Joseph Mifsud gave his full endorsement to the programme, telling UEFA.com: "I am sure the diploma will be of great benefit to all delegates, and I would like to thank UEFA with whom we are running the course."