Today marks one of the most special days for one of the greatest figures in football officiating, Dhori Prifti. Today, Prifti celebrates his 75th birthday, and undoubtedly, this milestone brings back countless beautiful memories that connect him with the world of football refereeing. Dhori Prifti, the international referee, is well-known not only in Korça but also beyond, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of football officiating.
Today, his family, friends, and admirers will wish him many more years of happiness and wisdom, honoring him as a role model for all. The “Korça Boom” portal takes this opportunity to extend its warmest congratulations to Dhori Prifti: “Another 100 happy years, Dhori!”
Dhori Prifti’s Sports Journey:
Football has been a companion for the well-known referee Dhori Prifti for more than 32 years. His official career began back in 1962, though his “informal” involvement in sports started even earlier when he was a young boy participating in sports classes. The esteemed coach Spiro Koça recognized his calm demeanor and positional qualities, placing him as a center-back in the youth team of “Skënderbeu.”
As a leader, he excelled in this role, attracting the attention of coach Ilia Shuke, who not only brought him to the senior team but also became a key figure in his football development. Shuke managed to assemble a team as disciplined as the “5 Shtatori” squad.
On December 25, 1969, Prifti began his military service in Skrapar, and by early 1970, he was under the command of coach Sabri Dyli. In his memories, Prifti highlights the hospitality and respect he received from the Skrapar locals: “In the team, we were like one big family. Like my other teammates, I have vivid memories of the matches between ‘5 Shtatori’ and ’22 Tetori’ from Poliçani.”
- “At that time, Poliçani had players from Partizani, and the directive was clear: we had to reach the top league. I remember that, even amidst the tension, we always won fairly against Poliçani. These were victories achieved through struggle and difficulty,” Dhori recalls.
Even though he played as a center-back, Prifti was a specialist in set pieces. The Skrapar fans still remember his spectacular goal on November 15, 1970, when he scored against Shkumbini, securing a 1-0 win from a corner kick. After his military service, his career as a central defender continued at “Skënderbeu,” where his mentor, Ilia Shuke, once again welcomed him into the squad.
Prifti’s time at “Skënderbeu” was limited due to the team’s strong competition at the time. However, an unfortunate event in 1974 changed the course of his football career. While training in football, Prifti suffered a serious injury while playing basketball, which ultimately ended his playing career but didn’t separate him from the sport he loved.
He embarked on a new, highly successful career as a referee. In 1976, he began his refereeing journey, quickly establishing himself as one of the best in the country. Thanks to his professionalism and fairness, he became the most trusted referee in the first division, officiating 90% of matches in that league. Within a short time, he reached the highest levels of refereeing, eventually earning the title of International Referee.
With 18 years of experience, Prifti became a symbol of football officiating in Albania and beyond. When he turned 45, he adhered to the age limits for refereeing, bringing his illustrious career to a close in 1994, officially retiring from football officiating. He “hung up his whistle” that year, marking the end of his exceptional career in the world of football justice.
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