Footballers Brian Alejandro Parada and Stefan Cassar of Xewkija Tigers FC have been named recipients of the Fair Play Award for the first quarter of 2025, recognising their exemplary sportsmanship during a recent match.
The accolade, awarded quarterly by the Malta Sports Journalists Association in collaboration with the Malta Fair Play Movement, celebrates athletes or teams who demonstrate exceptional fairness and altruism in competitive sports.
The commendable incident occurred in a Gozo Football League First Division fixture between Qala Saints FC and Xewkija Tigers FC on Sunday, 19 January 2025, at the Gozo Stadium.
With Xewkija leading 3-1 in the 76th minute, striker Brian Alejandro Parada was involved in a critical play, charging forward alongside Qala defender Junior Adenilson Ferreira Dos Santos. During their chase for possession, Ferreira Dos Santos sustained a serious fall, suffering a severe injury.
Parada, joined by his teammate Stefan Cassar, immediately ceased play, disregarding their promising scoring chance to provide prompt assistance and ensure medical attention was quickly administered to the injured opponent.
Charles Camenzuli of the Malta Fair Play Movement praised the players’ decision, noting, “Their choice to halt play in such a pivotal moment is exemplary. It epitomises the true spirit of respect and sportsmanship.”
The award presentation took place at a ceremony held in St Julian’s. Clinton Buhagiar, President of the Malta Sports Journalists Association, and Charles Camenzuli, the Honorary President of the Association, highlighted the importance of recognising acts of genuine fair play in sport.
