Frankie Grima
Frankie Grima a product of Marsa F.C., was attracted to football while watching some friends play. Due to his height, he was trained as a goalkeeper. At the early age of 13, he was trained by Guzi Alamango at Marsa F.C. and made his debut in the First Division on 31st March 1971 at the age of 14.
While having a drink at a bar, he was approached by the Valletta FC star player Carlo Seychell and was encouraged to join the citizens. During his spell with Valletta, he had Johnny Curmi as his personal trainer and trained under the coaches Calleja and Debattista. Grima joined Valletta FC on loan from Marsa on 15th November 1976 and was transferred to Valletta FC on 30th November 1977.
Throughout his days with Valletta Frankie won the Championship three times and the FA Trophy twice. Frankie is still remembered for the excellent saves he performed in the away leg of the UEFA Cup match against Leeds United in October 1979. After the match, Leeds United offered a contract to Frankie Grima but it was later refused by the Valletta FC committee.
During his football career, Frankie managed to wear the National shirt once during a friendly match against Tunisia B. He was later suspended by the Malta Football Association after he had gone out with the boys for a drink when they were in Tunis in 79.
After this incident, Frankie took the decision to retire from football at the age of 20.
On 31st December 1986, Frankie left Valletta and joined Zurrieq on loan. He stayed with the Wolves till 30th June 1987.
Frankie then joined Zebbug Rangers on 10th December 1989. He stayed out of the football match scene from July ’91 till January ’96. He then joined Pieta’ Hotspurs and ended his football career at the age of 25.
