In a significant move that showcased Luxol Basketball Club‘s commitment to nurturing home-grown talent, Roderick Vella was appointed as the Senior Women’s Coach on Saturday.
The appointment, announced by the club ahead of the new season means a promotion to the senior ranks as Santino Coppa’s replacement.
Vella’s appointment is not merely a routine promotion; it reflects his substantial contributions to Luxol’s female sector. Over the years, he has proven his mettle by clinching numerous titles with the U19, U16, and U14 girls’ teams. His ability to foster talent has been pivotal, with many of his protégés now shining in the senior team and junior national squads.
“I am honoured and excited to take on this new challenge,” Vella said in an official club statement.
“Our club has a rich tradition of excellence, and I am committed to continuing this legacy with the senior women’s team.”
In his expanded role, Vella will not only oversee the Senior Women’s team but also guide the U23 and U19 Women’s teams. This broad scope of responsibility underscores the club’s confidence in his coaching acumen and vision for the future. His track record speaks volumes, and the expectation is that he will infuse the senior team with the same winning mentality and skill development he has instilled in his junior teams.
Luxol’s announcement also highlighted the strategic appointments of other key figures in their coaching staff. Luxol player Nathan Xuereb will take charge of the U16 Girls and U19 Luxol St. Andrew’s Women’s teams.
Meanwhile, Brendon Cassar Saguna has been assigned to lead the U12, U14, and U16 Luxol St. Andrew’s Girls’ teams.
The club’s strategic expansion of its nursery has also been a focal point of this announcement. With the ability to field two teams in both the U14 and U16 categories, as well as an additional team in the U19 Women’s league, Luxol is poised to solidify its presence and competitive edge in Maltese basketball.
Luxol Basketball Club expressed optimism about the future, stating, “Best of luck to coaches Roderick Vella, Nathan Xuereb, and Brendon Cassar Saguna as they embark on their new roles. We look forward to a successful season ahead!”