#88: Team Malta Shines at the European Games of Small States in Riga
Team Malta made an impressive showing at the European Games of Small States, held this year in Riga, Latvia, bringing home three medals from four competitors — a proud moment for Maltese Taekwondo on the international stage.
The Maltese delegation, led by Gianluca Barbara, and composed of Alycia Cassar (junior -63kg), Michela Scerri (junior - 46kg), Jean Schembri (cadet - 41kg), and Luke Chircop (junior - 59kg), competed fiercely against athletes from across Europe, displaying both technical skill and the fighting spirit that has become the hallmark of Team Malta.
Alycia Cassar – Gold Medal
Alycia delivered an outstanding performance from start to finish.
In the semi-final, she defeated Oliwia Waszkiewicz from Iceland, showcasing her composure and precision under pressure. She then went on to face Haizea Martinez Otermin from Andorra in the final — and secured a comfortable and commanding victory to claim the gold medal for Malta.
Alycia Cassar won gold at the European Small States Countries 2025.
Alycia’s tactical awareness, confidence, and sharp execution made her merited her wins — a performance that truly reflected her recent growth and maturity as an athlete.
Michela Scerri – Silver Medal
Michela is in an excellent run of form, and won her first match against Amela Nuti from Montenegro with strong offensive play and smart distance management.
In the final, she faced another Montenegrin, Tara Sljivancanin, in what proved to be a tightly contested bout. Despite fighting with great heart and intensity, Michela narrowly lost with a round score of 2–0, earning a well-deserved silver medal.
Michela Scerri during her final.
Her performance demonstrated both resilience and consistency — qualities that will undoubtedly carry her toward even greater success in the coming months, as more high-level competitions loom on the horizon.
Jean Schembri – Silver Medal
Jean opened his campaign with an impressive victory against Latvia, having previously advanced after a quarter-final win against Faroe Islands.
Jean showed excellent energy and control. His attacking volume and pace kept his opponent on the back foot throughout the fight.
Jean Schembri - Malta’s cadet athlete.
In the final, he faced Armenia in a thrilling encounter. Jean lost the first round by just one point, and the second by a similarly narrow margin, securing a silver medal after a hard-fought and highly competitive match.
His performance was a clear sign of his ongoing progress and his ability to perform confidently under international pressure.
Luke Chircop
Luke faced a tough opening match against San Marino, which ended 2–0 in favor of his opponent. While he didn’t progress to the medal rounds this time, Luke’s participation provided valuable experience at this high level of competition.
Athlete Luke Chircop prior to his fight, representing Malta.
Every match at this stage is a learning opportunity, and his determination to improve and grow stronger from it has already set the tone for his upcoming championships in Croatia and Romania.
A Great Occasion for Team Malta
Between the four athletes, Team Malta secured three medals — a gold and two silvers — an outstanding result that highlights the team’s development and commitment.
The competition took place at the International Exhibition Centre in Riga, Latvia.
And beyond the medals, the athletes showed professionalism, unity, and the kind of fighting spirit that inspires everyone back home. Their performances in Riga are proof that Maltese Taekwondo continues to rise, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Europe’s finest.
On behalf of the coaches and Association, we would like to extend our congratulations and pride to all four athletes for their efforts, discipline, and representation of Malta with honour on and off the mats.
The team would compete again in the Riga Open G1 in two days time.
