The Aquatic Sports Association of Malta (ASA) has issued a response following comments made by former National Team Head Coach Milan Cirovic, defending the organisation, its athletes and technical staff against what it describes as external pressure, speculation and damaging public allegations.
In a statement issued by ASA President Karl Izzo, the Association said Cirovic had received its full professional support throughout his tenure and stressed that efforts had consistently been made to protect technical staff, officials and athletes from external pressure and public insinuations.
The statement comes after Cirovic appeared on MANUP+, where he reportedly referred to internal politics and external influences surrounding Maltese water polo.
According to the ASA, Cirovic’s comments should be considered against the backdrop of the controversy that has surrounded the National Team in recent months. The Association highlighted serious allegations and insinuations involving members of the team, including suggestions relating to match manipulation, which it said caused distress and reputational damage to players, their families, technical staff and the organisation itself.
The ASA stressed that serious allegations should not be considered established facts simply because they are repeated publicly, insisting on the importance of due process, fairness and the protection of individual reputations.
Izzo also addressed Cirovic’s references to internal politics and external influences, saying these were matters the Association “cannot and will not simply disregard”. He added that both the ASA and himself, in his capacity as President, have faced persistent criticism and attempts to undermine their work in recent months.
The Association maintained that its technical objectives, development programmes and long-term targets operate within a professional structure, while acknowledging that its decisions may not always satisfy everyone. It warned that sporting organisations should not become subject to personal agendas, factional interests, political manoeuvring or external pressure.
At the same time, the ASA said it remains open to legitimate criticism and committed to addressing mistakes when identified. However, it insisted it has a responsibility to defend itself, its staff and athletes when reputations are damaged through what it considers unfounded allegations or insinuations.
The statement also acknowledged Cirovic’s contribution to Maltese water polo, describing his service as professional and committed and saying his comments merit “serious institutional consideration”.
One of the strongest concerns raised by the ASA relates to what it describes as the leaking of a confidential Malta Gaming Authority report, prepared at the request of the Malta Police, to the press. The Association said it is deeply worried about the alleged leak and claimed it has yet to be informed of an official investigation into its source.
The matter will now be placed on the agenda of the forthcoming ASA Executive meeting, where members will discuss whether further measures are required to protect the interests and reputation of Maltese aquatic sport, affiliated members and athletes.
Looking ahead, the ASA said its focus remains on maintaining the progress achieved across Maltese aquatic sport. It pointed towards increasingly competitive international results over the past three years as evidence of sustained technical programmes, long-term planning and the collective work of athletes, coaches, clubs and officials.
The Association concluded by pledging to consolidate those achievements and ensure the structures and standards developed in recent years continue to benefit Maltese aquatic sport in the future.
“That is the legacy which must be protected,” the statement said.
