In the General Assembly of the Albanian Football Federation, organized in “Tirana International Hotel”, was held the decoration ceremony of several football personalities. Upon decision of the Assembly, AFF higher prize “Honour of the Nation in Football” was awarded to Refik Resme and current Albanian team coach Giovanni De Biasi.
While upon decision of the Executive Committee, after consultation with clubs and various associations, six other figures were decorated. The title “Honour of the Albanian Football” was handed to Mikel Janku and Sokol Kushta. The title “Albanian Football Legend” was handed to Shkëlqim Muça and Ylli Shehu, while the title “Gratitude” was handed to Andrea Marko and Krenar Alimehmeti.
Hereunder the motivations of decorations in the General Assembly:
Refik Resmja (after his death)
Football Nation’s Honour
For contribution to the development of the Albanian football as prominent player of Partizani and Albanian national team, symbol of the talented player and model footballer, which was evident in the years 1950-60. He has given a valued contribution in the field of training and as club leader.
Giovanni De Biasi
Football Nation’s Honour
For contribution given in the qualitative growth of the game and the performance of the national team. As head of the national team in its qualification in the finals of the European Football Championship “France 2016”. An historical result that happens for the first time in the history of the Albanian football.
Mikel Janku
Albanian Football Honour
One of the most prominent names of the Albanian football in the 1960s with a remarkable contribution as goalkeeper of Partizani and national team of Albania, being present at some major events of the Albanian football. He has contributed also as club chairman and continues to be active as a sports commentator.
Sokol Kushta
Albanian Football Honour
One of the most prominent attackers of mid 1980-90s with an outstanding contribution to the results of the Albanian football. He is distinguished with the teams of Flamurtari, Partizani and national team of Albania. He is a Protagonist in some major events for the Albanian football.
Shkëlqim Muça
Albanian Football Legend
For contribution provided as virtuous midfielder with the team of Tirana and the Albanian national team. One of the most famous names of the Albanian football in the 1980s with a valued contribution in the field of training and as club leader.
Ylli Shehu
Albanian Football Legend
For contribution given as virtuous attacker with Partizani team and the national team of Albania. One of the most famous names of the Albanian football in the 1980s continues to give his contribution in the field of Albanian training.
Andrea Marko
Gratitude
Talented midfielder in the years 1970-80. He is distinguished with his game, especially with the team of Dinamo. He has also contributed to the Albanian national team. He was announced Balkan Champion with the team of “Expectations” in 1978.
Krenar Alimehmeti
Gratitude
A talented defender in the years 1980-90, who distinguished with his game, especially with the Tirana team as its captain. He has also contributed with the Albanian national team. He was announced some times champion and winner of the Cup of Albania.
