The 40th edition of the FIBS Coaches Convention, organised by the Italian Baseball and Softball Federation (FIBS), concluded on Sunday 25 January, bringing together coaches, and technical experts, for a high level educational programme.
The Malta Baseball and Softball Association was actively represented at the convention by four delegates Olga Karpuhina, Keith Bartolo, Roberto Andolfi, and Andrew Bajo, highlighting Malta’s continued commitment to coach education, technical development, and international cooperation within baseball and softball.
Throughout the convention, the Maltese representatives took part in a wide range of sessions focusing on modern coaching approaches, long term athlete development, and the evolving role of the coach as an educator, communicator, and leader. The programme offered valuable learning opportunities that will contribute directly to the growth of coaching standards and player development structures within Malta.
The final day of the convention featured presentations by Gennaro Boccia, Brad Penny, Kyla Holas, and Keith Osik, who addressed key topics such as the relationship between scientific research and on field practice, mental preparation of athletes and pitchers, and leadership within high performance environments. The event concluded with a round table discussion involving international speakers Brad Penny, Kyla Holas, Keith Osik, and Rick Eckstein, who shared insights on building and managing competitive teams at all levels, from grassroots to elite programmes.
The participation of the Maltese delegation was made possible thanks to the support of the GSSE Legacy Funding, in collaboration with the Maltese Olympic Committee, whose continued investment in education and development initiatives enables Maltese sport organisations to engage in high level international programmes.
Participation in events such as the FIBS Coaches Convention plays a strategic role for the Malta Baseball and Softball Association, fostering knowledge exchange with internationally renowned experts and strengthening relationships with partner federations. The expertise gained during the convention will support the ongoing development of baseball and softball in Malta at both grassroots and high performance levels.
