#97: Maltese Taekwondo Athletes Compete at Croatia Open G1 and Junior European Championships
Over the past two weeks, Maltese Taekwondo was represented on the international stage at two major events: the Croatia Open G1 and the Junior European Championships in Switzerland.
Athletes from the Iron Taekwondo League (ITL) and Strive Taekwondo delivered determined, disciplined performances against some of Europe’s and the world’s strongest competitors.
Iron Taekwondo League (ITL)
Michela Scerri – Junior Female -46kg
Michela opened her campaign at the Croatia Open G1, advancing to the quarter-finals before facing the USA’s Kylie Chan. Despite a strong performance, she was defeated by Chan, who went on to win the category.
She would represent Malta at the Junior European Championships in Switzerland one week later.
One week later, at the Junior European Championships, Michela produced one of Malta’s standout moments, defeating Poland’s top-ranked athlete in Round 1. She conceded Rounds 2 and 3 in a tightly contested match, demonstrating remarkable progress and competitiveness at this level.
Alycia Cassar – Junior Female -63kg
Alycia also competed in both events. At the Croatia Open, she faced Italy’s Anna Gruber, delivering a committed performance despite a 2–0 loss.
Like Michela, Aly also attended the Junior European Championships in Switzerland that same week.
At the Junior Europeans, she drew Spain’s leading athlete and again showed grit and composure. Although the result didn’t go our way, her performance reflected clear improvement and potential for future success.
Jean Schembri – Cadet Male -41kg
Jean began strongly in Croatia, winning his opening match with confidence. A referee error unfortunately affected the outcome of Round 2, and he was edged out in Round 3 by the Croatian athlete. Despite the setback, Jean’s display highlighted promising tactical development and resilience.
Strive Taekwondo
Luke Chircop – Junior Male -63kg
Luke secured an excellent opening-round victory over the United Kingdom. In Round 2, he faced a tough Croatian opponent and, despite a hard-fought effort, narrowly missed out on progressing further.
Nathan Degiorgio – Junior Male -59kg
Nathan opened with a strong win against Poland, showing confident poomsae and ring control. His second match, also against Croatia, was a close encounter that ultimately went to the host nation’s athlete.
Kendra Magro – Junior Female -51kg
Competing internationally for the first time, Kendra delivered a composed debut despite an early exit. Her participation marks an important step in her development and provides valuable experience for future events.
Looking Ahead
Across both clubs, Malta’s young athletes met some of Europe’s most established competitors and showed the discipline, determination, and fighting spirit that continue to elevate Maltese Taekwondo internationally. These experiences are vital stepping stones as the next generation gains exposure to higher-level competition.
The participating clubs and the Association extend their sincere thanks to SPORTMALTA, whose support made Malta’s attendance at these events possible.
