The Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST) hosted the 9th edition of the International iCoachKids Conference on 7 May. The conference brought together educators, coaches, and sports professionals from across Europe to champion ethical and inclusive coaching practices for young people.

The event, in collaboration with the International Council for Coaching Excellence (ICCE) and Sport Coaching Europe, and with the coordination in the hands of the Malta Sport Coaches Association, highlighted the importance of child-centred coaching, safeguarding, and the positive development of youth through sport.

During his opening address, MCAST Principal and CEO Mr Stephen Vella stressed the college’s commitment to youth development through international and local collaboration. “This conference is not just about developing sporting talent, but about nurturing people,” said Mr Vella. “Child-centred coaching and a culture of care in sport are not just ideals; they are practices we must embed in every session, every team, every club and the vocational sports education offered by MCAST plays a significant role in this.”

Experts from the Malta Basketball Association and Special Olympics each offered insights into a number of initiatives designed to make sport accessible to all, through their keynote presentations.

Sergio Lara-Bercial, Professor of Sport Coaching and seasoned basketball coach, led a practical workshop encouraging coaches to promote autonomy and critical thinking among young athletes. While, Megan Hill and Ruth Brazier demonstrated the use of co-construction and storytelling to engage girls in sport inspired by the ICOACHGIRLS and UEFA Playmakers programmes.

In addition to the conference programme, Institute of Community Services Director Ann Marie Cassar and Senior Lecturer Renzo Cumbo Kerr introduced the three new MCAST degree programmes in sports coaching, each of which are launching in the 2025/26 academic year. One of these degrees focuses specifically on coaching for children and is benchmarked to international standards, reflecting MCAST’s aim to equip Maltese and international students for global success.

In the final session of the day, Ruth Brazier offered a summary of the impact of the ICOACHGIRLS project, co-funded by the European Union, highlighting programme successes including the development of over 300 female coaches and the activation of over 1,200 girls across the continent.

Finally, 26 new ICOACHKIDS Champions were announced, celebrating the great work that youth sport coaches are doing across the world. This included the first Maltese ICK Champions: Maria Agius and Isabelle Mazitelli.

The event concluded with a closing statement by Professor Lara-Bercial, who thanked all attendees and colleagues for their engagement and insights throughout the event.