Ħamrun Ħanin wins Sport for Social Change Award 2025

Ħamrun Ħanin has been named the winner of the Sport for Social Change Award 2025, presented by the Malta Sports Journalists Association during a Gala Evening held at the Westin Dragonara Resort. The award was granted in recognition of the voluntary organisation’s Autism Awareness Initiative, which was organised last year. The initiative aimed to raise awareness about autism within the sports community and foster inclusivity for individuals with autism through sports, and was organised in collaboration with the Autism Parents Association.

The Autism Awareness Initiative involved a series of events and activities designed to raise awareness about autism and its challenges. The event brought together players, technical staff, committee members, volunteers and fans to support individuals with autism, breaking down barriers and promoting inclusion. It had reached its highlight in the FA Trophy quarter-final match against Birkirkara FC, when the Ħamrun Spartans player donned a jersey designed by a young child on the autism spectrum, which was then auctioned off to raise funds for the cause.

Winning this award was also a reflection of the efforts carried out by Ħamrun Ħanin’s team of volunteers over the past few years, efforts which touches hundreds of lives and addressed several societal issues, such as discrimination, environment, inclusion and others.

Ian Debattista, Chairman of Ħamrun Ħanin, expressed his pride in receiving the prestigious recognition: “We are truly honoured to receive this award. It’s a reflection of the hard work and dedication of our entire team and supporters. This recognition is for all those who believe in the power of sport to change lives.”

The award highlights the growing importance of social responsibility within sports and acknowledges the significant efforts made by clubs and organizations to create a positive impact beyond the field. It also celebrates how sports can be a powerful tool in addressing societal challenges, raising awareness, and promoting inclusivity.

In a social media statement, Ħamrun Ħanin also congratulated the other finalists, thanking them for their contributions and auguring that more organisations utilise sport to achieve positive change in the community. The other four finalists were Fgura United FC, Caritas Malta, Malta Triathlon Federation / Fabio Spiteri, and MOVE.