Ruben Debono pledges his future with Birkirkara FC Youth Academy

by Ayrton Galea - 23rd November 2016

Birkirkara FC Youth Academy continued to invest in its technical sector, with the signing of a two and a half years contract with goalkeepers' coach Ruben Debono.

Ruben needs no introduction in Maltese football. The forty-two year old former goalkeeper, who is a product of Birkirkara FC's Youth Nursery, started his playing career with Naxxar Lions and went on playing with Sliema Wanderers and Birkirkara FC. He then joined Marsaxlokk and won the BOV Premier League with them besides making over 100 appearances in the Premier League.

On the other hand, as a goalkeepers' coach he started his career with Valletta FC in 2011. Ruben then moved to Birkirkara FC's Youth Academy at the beginning of last season. Ruben is in charge of all the goalkeepers of the Club's amateur teams, that is the Academy's teams up to the Under 19s, and the Women's team.

Ruben told us, “First of all it was a great honour for me when last season Birkirkara F.C. showed interest in my services as goalkeeper's coach. When I met with Mr. Ivan Mizzi and Mr. Mark Bondin we immediately agreed on the targets that the Academy was working to achieve. I really enjoyed working with the Academy last season and it was natural for me to accept a contract with the Club.”

“In my opinion the Academy is progressing very well, but obviously there is always room for improvement. We as coaches should always keep in mind that our delicate job is to try to help every child improving a little bit more with each training session. As regards to management Mr. Mizzi and Mr. Bondin are doing a great job. They are always available and eager to discuss any new suggestions.”

We asked Ruben for his opinion regarding Youth Football in Malta, and he told us, “My opinion is that when we compare our young players with the foreign ones there is no difference. We've got talent like anyone else. Now it's up to us coaches to show dedication and passion during the precious time we spend with them in training, trying always to bring out the best in each and every child. The main problem in my opinion is that when they grow up and develop, they are not finding enough space in the senior squads.”

Finally our goalkeepers' coach concluded with “My advice to any young player is that they should work hard and never quit no matter what because life is a battle field - No Pain, No Gain”.

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