Italian Paralympian Visits Visually Impaired Athletes At Malta Swimming Camp
Visually impaired swimmers in Malta had the unique opportunity to receive first-hand tips from a blind Italian champion during a Para Swimming Development Camp held recently in Malta.
Italian Paralympian Martina Rabbolini, who has represented Italy in multiple European and World Championships as well as three Paralympic Games — Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020, and Paris 2024 — visited Malta to share her expertise and techniques with aspiring athletes.
The camp, held at the newly opened indoor pool complex at The Mediterranean College of Sport, was organised by the Malta Paralympic Committee (MPC) in collaboration with The Malta Trust Foundation (TMTF) and the Federazione Italiana Nuoto Paralimpico (FINP).
A total of 14 coaches and 10 Para swimmers, aged eight to 17, took part in this initiative aimed at developing skills and building international connections.
Over three days, participants benefitted from the guidance of FINP coaches Federica Fornasiero and Enrico Testa, who have over 20 years of experience in Paralympic swimming. Both coaches are part of Italy’s award-winning national team and oversee official training and accreditation for Paralympic swimming coaches in Italy.
Dedicated educational sessions for coaches focused on methodologies and techniques tailored to blind and visually impaired swimmers. Practical pool sessions allowed athletes with visual or physical impairments to receive personalised evaluations and technique adjustments.
Coaches also had the opportunity to use adapted equipment, such as tappers and waterproof audio devices designed for visually impaired swimmers, enhancing their ability to train efficiently and safely.
The camp also helped strengthen relationships with FINP and explore future collaborations, including advanced training for Para swimming coaches and potential exchange programs or competitions between Malta and Italy.
The Malta Paralympic Committee hailed the initiative as an investment in the future of Para swimming. “Providing the necessary support and expertise helps athletes and coaches reach their goals while setting even more ambitious targets for the sport,” MPC stated.
Beyond technical training, the camp fostered a strong sense of community, with young athletes, their families, and coaches forming positive connections. “This is encouraging and positions swimming as an inclusive sport that welcomes athletes of all abilities,” MPC added.
The Malta Trust Foundation highlighted the impact of the camp in bringing children, parents, and coaches together. “It was truly inspiring to see everyone working in unison and benefiting from such a meaningful initiative that ensures individuals of all abilities can access and enjoy swimming.”
For more information on getting involved in Para Sport, visit paralympic.mt/findaparasport or follow the Malta Paralympic Committee on Facebook at Malta Paralympic Committee.
Well done to all involved!
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