Through a solemn ceremony, the President of the Republic Ilir Meta awarded this Thursday with the high title "Grand Master" three prominent former Albanian football players of the 1980s. 

The ceremony honoured: 

-The unsurpassed defender of "17 November", Mr. Antonin Naçi "With gratitude, for the tireless work and high results achieved with the team 'November 17' and the National Team. In appreciation of the prominent footballer during national and international activities, the professional coach praised for his successes, at home and abroad. " 

-The outstanding goalkeeper, Mr. Artur Lekbello "In appreciation of the contributions as a goalkeeper of the teams 'Lokomotiva', 'Partizani', 'Flamurtari' and the National Team, achieving outstanding results in national and international football activities." 

-The prominent defender of "November 17", Mr. Arjan Bimo "As a sign of appreciation for the outstanding contributions as a player of the team 'November 17' and the National Team, scoring high results in national and international activities." 

In his greeting speech to the decorated footballers, their families and colleagues, the Head of State said: 

"It is a pleasure to welcome and appreciate today the contribution and the glorious career of the three former famous football players of the teams 'November 17', 'Lokomotiva', 'Flamurtari', 'Partizani' and the National Teams: 

Mr. Antonin Naçi or Nine Naçi, the classic defender and tireless player of ‘November 17 ’and the National Team; 

Mr. Artur Lekbello, the beloved athlete of the fans and colleagues, the spectacular goalkeeper of ‘Lokomotiva’, ‘Partizani’, ‘Flamurtari’ and the National Team; 

Mr. Arjan Bimo, the left defender, the charming football player of 'November 17' and the National Team, who was made great by his talent, but also by the wisdom that stood out and differed in relation to everyone else. 

Your engagement in this long sporting career has not only been limited to sporting success, but it has also included your engagement in many other important tasks of civil and social life. On this occasion I want to greet your teachers and trainers, who have worked diligently for you to grow and be educated with the best values ??of that time, and at the same time that you always remain very precious people of our society, and today , examples for the youngest to follow exactly your path to success. 

The 'Grand Master' titles that we award you today as outstanding and beloved players of our football, are an appreciation for the work, for the sacrifices, for the results achieved by you as footballers and at the same time are an effort to encourage the youngest, to encourage children in the magical path of sports, especially football," said Meta.