Iron Island Training Camp brings together 105 athletes from 11 countries

This year’s Iron Island Training Camp brought together 105 athletes from 11 countries for a weekend of high-level training and international exchange in Malta.

Participants travelled from Malta, France, Italy, Ireland, Poland, Sweden, Luxembourg, Israel, Germany, the United Kingdom and Greece for the event, which was held at the Salini Resort overlooking the Mediterranean.

The venue offered extensive training facilities as well as a setting conducive to focus, recovery and team building.

Three days of training

The camp featured three main sessions, each tailored for different age groups, including children, cadets, juniors and seniors.

Friday’s opening session was led by Gianluca Barbara, who focused on tactical development. The structured programme included range work, competitive exchanges and scenario-based training, setting the tone for the days ahead.

On Saturday, coaching was delivered by Greek trainers Vaso and Toula Christidou. Their session emphasised precision, technique and competitive sharpness, challenging athletes while raising the overall standard on the mat.

Sunday was dedicated to sparring. Centre-ring bouts placed athletes under close observation, with fellow participants seated around the mat to analyse, support and encourage. The format created an intense and focused atmosphere, with each exchange offering a learning opportunity.

Awards and recognition

An awards presentation was held on Saturday evening to recognise both sporting excellence and organisational contribution.

Vaso and Toula Christidou were honoured for their contribution and expertise during the camp. Recognition was also given to Gianluca Barbara, Michelle Chircop and Anna Vassallo for their work in organising the event.

Four athletes were recognised for their achievements in taekwondo:

• Dwayne Micallef (Malta), Kids European champion
• Serghei Dominici (Luxembourg), European Masters champion
• Asaf Yasur (Israel), two-time world champion and 2024 Paralympic champion
• Adnan Milad (Israel), European vice-champion

Organisers said their accomplishments served as inspiration to both younger competitors and seasoned athletes in attendance.

Building community

Beyond the technical sessions, organisers highlighted the sense of community that developed over the three days. Athletes and coaches from different countries and experience levels shared insights and built connections.

Feedback from participants was described as overwhelmingly positive, with many noting that the camp provided not only technical development but also an opportunity to strengthen relationships within the sport.

As the event concluded, organisers thanked the athletes and coaches who attended, the management of the Salini Resort for hosting, and local clubs for their collaboration. Appreciation was also extended to sponsors VisitMalta and APS Bank, as well as on-site photographers Steve Barbara and the_pixelmood.