Watch: Jake Vella’s Parents Honour His Legacy As They Address Fgura United FC Players
Jake Vella’s parents, Josie and Mariska, addressed young Fgura United FC players during their players’ council meeting, thanking them for launching “Goals of Care” to donate to the Association for Abandoned Animals.
“Thank you, I love you…it doesn’t cost anything to say them and we shouldn’t shy away from saying them to our mums and dads. Jake’s last words were ‘Thank you mum and thank you dad.’ He appreciated all we did for him,” said Josie Vella.
Jake Vella was an inspirational teenage athlete who had been fighting an extremely rare condition that caused him to gain weight rapidly despite leading a healthy lifestyle. He passed away at just 15 years old on 30th August 2024.
Vella became a beloved personality as he documented his constant fight while remaining positive and full of energy. He also turned into a philanthropist as he organised swimming challenges and sports events with other athletes to raise funds and awareness for abandoned animals and other causes.
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“Thank you for helping the Association for Abandoned Animals, Fgura United F.C. This way, Jake’s legacy will stay alive,” wrote Josie Vella on Facebook as he thanked the football club for their latest initiative. Fgura United Football Club has launched its “Goals of Care” initiative for the 2025/2026 season. For every goal scored by the U15, U17, U21 and First Team, the club will donate €5 into a dedicated fund.
The total amount will be split equally between The Association for Abandoned Animals and Frame Football Malta.
Josie and Mariska have continued to keep Jake’s spirit alive as they have talked about his story and the positivity he brought to everything that he did.
“Jake has taught us what life is all about, and he will forever live in the hearts of many. We have no words for the bravery he has shown throughout these years,” the parents said.
What a way to keep his spirit alive and to continue Vella’s inspiring legacy.
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