# Ramaz Shengelia > Georgian footballer (1957-2012) **Wikidata**: [Q447358](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q447358) **Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramaz_Shengelia) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/ramaz-shengelia ## Summary Ramaz Shengelia was a Georgian footballer and athlete, born in 1957 and active during the Soviet era. He is recognized for his contributions to football, particularly as a player representing Georgia and the Soviet Union, and was posthumously honored with the title of Honoured Master of Sports of the USSR. ## Biography - Born: January 1, 1957 - Nationality: Georgian (citizen of the Soviet Union and later Georgia) - Education: Tbilisi State University - Known for: Association football performance and representation at national and international levels - Employer(s): Not explicitly listed in provided data - Field(s): Association football, sports ## Contributions Ramaz Shengelia contributed to the field of association football as a professional player. His career spanned from at least 1973 onwards, during which he represented Georgia and the broader Soviet Union in the sport. He was recognized with the title of Honoured Master of Sports of the USSR, an award given to elite athletes for exceptional performance. A plaque commemorating his life and career was installed on December 28, 2024, titled "2024-12-28 Plaque to Ramaz Shengelia.jpg". ## FAQs **What is Ramaz Shengelia known for?** Ramaz Shengelia is best known as a Georgian footballer who played during the Soviet era and was awarded the title of Honoured Master of Sports of the USSR. His career began no later than 1973, and he became a notable figure in Georgian and Soviet football. **Where did Ramaz Shengelia study?** He was educated at Tbilisi State University, one of Georgia’s most prestigious academic institutions, founded in 1918. **What awards did Ramaz Shengelia receive?** Shengelia received the title of Honoured Master of Sports of the USSR, a prestigious recognition given to top-performing athletes between 1934 and 1992. **What was Ramaz Shengelia’s profession?** He was an association football player and an athlete, dedicating his career to sports and representing his country at high levels of competition. ## Why They Matter Ramaz Shengelia matters as a symbol of Georgian athletic excellence during the Soviet period. His recognition as an Honoured Master of Sports of the USSR underscores his elite status in sports, and his legacy continues to be honored, as seen by commemorative efforts such as the 2024 plaque. His contributions helped elevate the profile of Georgian athletes and inspired future generations in the region. ## Notable For - Being a professional association football player from Georgia - Representing the Soviet Union in international sports - Receiving the Honoured Master of Sports of the USSR award - Having a commemorative plaque installed in 2024 - Studying at Tbilisi State University - Being part of the sporting legacy of Georgia during a transformative political and cultural era ## Body ### Early Life and Education Ramaz Shengelia was born on January 1, 1957. He pursued higher education at Tbilisi State University, an institution with a long-standing academic tradition dating back to February 8, 1918. This educational background situates him within the intellectual and cultural milieu of Georgia during the mid-20th century. ### Career in Sports Shengelia’s career in association football began by at least 1973, as indicated by his earliest known professional activity. As a footballer, he represented both Georgia and the broader Soviet Union, competing at a time when sports were a key component of national identity and international prestige. His role as an athlete placed him within the broader tradition of physical culture that was highly valued in the USSR. ### Recognition and Awards In recognition of his athletic achievements, Ramaz Shengelia was awarded the title of Honoured Master of Sports of the USSR. This accolade, established on May 27, 1934, and awarded until the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1992, was reserved for individuals who demonstrated outstanding performance in sports. This honor underscores his elite status among Soviet athletes. ### Legacy and Commemoration A significant tribute to Shengelia's legacy occurred on December 28, 2024, with the installation of a commemorative plaque titled "2024-12-28 Plaque to Ramaz Shengelia.jpg". This act of remembrance highlights his continued relevance in Georgian sports history and cultural memory. ### Identity and Nationality Ramaz Shengelia was a citizen of the Soviet Union during his active years and later became part of the independent Georgian state following its declaration of independence on December 25, 1991. His identity as a Georgian athlete during the Soviet period places him at the intersection of regional pride and broader Soviet sporting culture. ### Cultural and Historical Context Shengelia’s career unfolded during a time when Georgia was part of the Soviet Union, and sports were a critical element of national representation. His achievements reflect the broader narrative of Georgian athletes who gained prominence on the Soviet and international stages. His life and career are emblematic of the role of sports in shaping identity during a complex geopolitical period. ### Influence and Impact While specific details of his influence on policy or broader football development are not provided, his recognition as an Honoured Master of Sports and his representation of his country in football indicate that he played a role in shaping the athletic culture of his time. His legacy continues to be honored, suggesting a lasting impact on Georgian sports history. ## References 1. Biographical Dictionary of Georgia 2. FBref 3. [Former Georgian striker Shengelia dies at 55](http://www.visitlagosstate.com/news/former-georgian-striker-shengelia-dies-at-55) 4. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013 5. [Source](https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/clubs/players/37958/)