Deaf Sports Association Malta
The Malta Deaf Sports Association was established in 2001 when Malta became a member of the International Committee of Sports for the Deaf (CISS) and participated in the Rome Deaflympics. The association is also a member of the Malta Paralympic Committee. Its mission is to unite Deaf athletes who face unique challenges in sports, such as difficulty hearing instructions, referee decisions, or crowd reactions. Despite these barriers, Deaf athletes compete regularly with hearing opponents and have equal rights to participate in sports.
The Deaf People Association initially organized indoor games such as billiards, table tennis, table soccer, chess, draughts, and darts, hosting tournaments at the Deaf Club. By 2004, the focus expanded to include outdoor sports, with greater participation and support from Kunsill Malti għall-iSports. In 2007, a Deaf football team was formed, meeting weekly for training and matches, fostering both social connections and special awareness of communication methods in fast-paced games. Facilities such as the Marsa track, Kirkop football ground, and University tracks were made available free of charge, providing players with an enhanced environment for practice.
In 2010, the Deaf Women’s group was established, meeting weekly to engage in aerobics and fitness activities at the Cottonera Sports Complex, again with support from Kunsill Malti għall-iSports. These sessions promoted a healthy lifestyle and social interaction among participants.
Currently, Deaf Football and the Deaf Women’s group are not active, but efforts are underway to resume activities in the near future.
The Malta Deaf Sports Association remains a proud member of the International Committee of Sports for the Deaf (CISS).
For more information, please contact Mr. George Vella.
