Before embarking on his professional career in the Financial Services industry and later entering public life, Graham Bencini spent many years involved in Maltese football, competing at senior level for several respected clubs.

These early years in sport played a fundamental role in shaping the discipline, resilience, and sense of responsibility that continue to guide him today.

Graham progressed through the Sliema Wanderers youth system from a young age, eventually moving into the senior game. Over the course of his footballing journey, he represented a number of established Maltese clubs, including Sliema Wanderers, Naxxar Lions, Birkirkara, Ħamrun Spartans, Floriana, Marsa, and Tarxien Rainbows, as well as Għajnsielem in the Gozo Football League. His career also included representing Malta at Under-21 level and earning caps for the Senior National Team.

Among the notable moments in his footballing journey were exhibition fixtures against major European clubs such as Manchester United and Juventus. These matches, watched closely by Maltese supporters, placed Graham and his teammates opposite some of the most accomplished footballers in the world. Competing in these settings offered him valuable exposure to elite footballing environments and provided lasting lessons about discipline, tactical awareness, and the demands of competing at the highest level.

Across his footballing career, Graham contributed to a number of team achievements, including league titles, domestic cup victories, and a championship in Gozo. He also captained Marsa F.C., guiding the team to promotion—an experience that underscored his ability to organise, motivate, and support those around him.

Following his retirement from the 11-a-side game, Graham remained active in sport and continued to compete, representing Valletta F.C. Futsal in the Maltese futsal league. His involvement in futsal reflects his ongoing commitment to fitness, teamwork, and the positive role sport plays in community life.

These years in competitive sport instilled in Graham a strong appreciation for teamwork, preparation, and perseverance. The demands of football—both physical and mental—helped shape his approach to leadership, strategic thinking, and collaboration.
Today, the values forged on the pitch continue to influence his work, serving as a steady foundation for his professional and public responsibilities.