Youngsters with physical or visual impairments are being given a springboard to push beyond barriers in sport as the ISPORT training programme expands into ISPORT+.
Born four years ago through a collaboration between The Malta Trust Foundation and the Malta Paralympic Committee, ISPORT initially focused on children with visual challenges.
Under a renewed agreement being signed today, ISPORT+ will go further and broaden its sporting and coaching opportunities to include those with physical disabilities, who may struggle to be fully included in mainstream sporting activities.

Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca, founder and chair of The Malta Trust Foundation, said the aim for ISPORT+ was to each as many young children and young people as possible and give them the opportunity to discover what they could achieve through sport.
“The renewal of our partnership with the Malta Paralympic Committee for the next phase of ISPORT+ is a truly happy moment. Over the past four years, we have created valuable sports opportunities for children and young people with visual impairments, and the confidence, happiness, and sense of achievement they have gained are our greatest reward.
“We are committed to building on this work and continuing to empower our participants with physical and visual challenges through sport. We also hope some may one day go on to become Malta’s future para-athletes,” Ms Coleiro Preca said.
Inclusion and Voluntary Sector Minister Julia Farrugia said ISPORT+ reflected the principle that sport should be accessible to everyone, regardless of ability.
“Sport has the power to build confidence and give young people a strong sense of belonging. Everyone should have the opportunity not only to participate, but also to develop their talents and reach their full potential,” Ms Farrugia said.
Since its launch, ISPORT has built a growing community of young athletes, coaches, sports clubs, and family support networks. International collaborations, particularly with the Federazione Italiana Nuoto Paralimpico (FINP), have also enabled Maltese athletes with visually impairments to benefit from visiting international coaches, specialised training, and skills development workshops.
Julian Bajada, Malta Paralympic Committee general secretary, said one of the strategic priorities will be the continued development of coaches to ensure they could respond to athletes’ specific needs. This would ensure they are provided with tailored programmes in an inclusive, safe, professional and dignified environment.
“ISPORT+ is a fantastic opportunity for children and young people with physical or visual impairments to become involved in sport and physical activity, and to participate meaningfully and fully in society.
“It goes beyond sport by supporting an environment and mindset which values independent living, development of lifelong social skills and building a community. Malta Paralympic Committee is deeply grateful for The Malta Trust Foundation for partnering with us at every step of this evolving journey,” Dr Bajada said.
The expansion of ISPORT+ will allow for further investment not only in athletes and coaches, but also in parents, siblings and the wider sporting community. This is what makes ISPORT a unique approach to empowering lives and giving individuals a chance to realise their full potential.