Based on a joint nomination by Irakli Kobakhidze, Prime Minister of Georgia, and Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili, President Mikheil Kavelashvili presented state awards to the members of the Georgian national basketball team and the leadership of the Georgian Basketball Federation, the government’s press office has said.

At the awards ceremony held at the Presidential Palace, the Prime Minister emphasized the dedication, patriotism and achievements of the Georgian basketball players, expressing his gratitude for their success.

“We, Georgians, are a talented people. This talent is especially evident in sports. However, without dedication, hard work and patriotism, talent alone would not bring success. You are an example of the determination a Georgian man should show when it comes to defending the dignity of our country. The role of a captain is of particular importance. Today, we are joined by Tornike Shengelia, who-when we were qualifying for the World Cup-played in Italy, then flew to Iceland, returned to Bologna to play again, and finally came to Tbilisi for the decisive game. He played a key role in the victory that ultimately secured our place in the World Cup. Each of you showed the same spirit. The captain’s example is remarkable, but each of you deserves special thanks,” stated Irakli Kobakhidze.

The Prime Minister of Georgia also spoke about the government’s plans for developing sports infrastructure and noted that the success of Georgian basketball players sets an example of a healthy lifestyle for future generations.

“Following the remarkable victories in Georgian basketball, motivation among children and youth to pursue a healthy lifestyle has significantly increased. It is our government’s responsibility to create the best possible conditions for this. We will pay particular attention to developing infrastructure so that every child and teenager interested in basketball has the opportunity to engage in the sport. A very important tournament lies ahead-we’re going to EuroBasket with a strong team and I wish you great success. We are by your side and fully support you,” added the Prime Minister when addressing the players.

In recognition of their outstanding contribution to Georgia’s recent victory, the Georgian state award-the Order of Victory of St. George-was presented to national team members Giorgi Shermadini and Tornike Shengelia.

The President also awarded the Medal of Honor to other members of the men’s national team, coaches, President of the Georgian Basketball Federation Viktor Sanikidze and Vice Presidents Vladimer Boisa, Nikoloz Tskitishvili and David Sakvarelidze, as well as the Federation’s Secretary General Lasha Gamkrelidze.

Additionally, Medals of Honor were presented to team managers, doctors and administration representatives of the Georgian Basketball Federation.