“Athletes of the Year 2024”
An evening filled with emotions and applause celebrated Pogradec’s athletes in an event held for the first time in the city. The focus of the event was on athletes, coaches, and former coaches who have made significant contributions to sports in Pogradec.
The evening began with a tribute to distinguished coaches Stasi Vako, Thanas Papa, Agron Ruvina, Ilir Luarasi, and Qani Mbroçi, whose dedication and achievements have left a lasting mark on the city’s sporting history.
Two individuals, Festim Fetollari and Spartak Elmazi, were posthumously honored with the title “Pride of the City,” a recognition recently approved by the Municipal Council to celebrate their invaluable contributions to Pogradec football.
Prominent national athletes Endri Çekiçi, Ernest Muçi, and Erjon Hoxhallari were awarded “Acknowledgment” certificates for their outstanding performances and for representing Pogradec on the national team.
Other players, including Isi Manellari, Marin Abazaj, and Vangjel Zguro, were also recognized for their contributions and the pride they bring to Pogradec in their superior league teams.
Additionally, 10 athletes from local teams in football, volleyball, basketball, swimming, and martial arts were celebrated for their achievements over the past year. Among those honored were former athletes and contributors like Sotiraq Iftica, Fredi Shaho, and current players such as Paola Gjata, Gjinovefa Kërthi, Miklovan Pere, Astrit Hysenllari, Arbër Pengu, Rigels Vako, Aleksio Ruvina, Redjon Gozhdari, and Fabian Mançellari.
The evening also included announcements about future developments in the city’s sports infrastructure. Ylli Çekiçi, an executive member of the Albanian Football Federation, revealed plans to soon begin the renovation of the sports annex and the establishment of new gyms.
Talented volleyball player Paola Gjata shared exciting news that, starting January 2025, she will join Pogradec’s women’s volleyball team, returning to where she first began her career.
This gala event marked a heartfelt recognition of the city’s sports and athletes, setting the stage for an annual tradition to celebrate sports achievements across all disciplines at year’s end.
CREATED by:
“KORÇA BOOM”
