Wes Morgan to join Football Black List celebration in Leicester bringing together community heroes
Black communities gather in the region where players such as Wes Morgan, Emile Heskey and Holly Morgan shot to fame.
The contribution of the Black community to football in the East Midlands will be celebrated on Friday 11 October at King Power Stadium in Leicester.
The Football Black List East Midlands celebration, supported by the FA, will see remarkable people come together to recognise and commemorate Black excellence from individuals who have contributed to the game in the community, hosted by broadcaster Nikki Tapper
The initiative was founded by journalists Leon Mann MBE and Rodney Hinds in 2008. The aim of the Football Black List is to highlight and amplify Black talent in the sport.
Grassroots and Community heroes from the East Midlands will be awarded for how they have positively impacted the sport in the area. A panel of respected representatives from the Black community in the region, as well as senior representatives from the Leicestershire & Rutland County FA and Leicester City Football Club selected the awardees.
Former Premier League winner and club legend Wes Morgan will take to the stage at the event to recall his memories of lifting the Premier League title in 2016 and FA Cup in 2021 for Leicester, as well as growing up in the East Midlands.
The celebration evening will be dedicated to the memory of Highfield Rangers former Chairperson Gerry Burke, who died from cancer in 2023, and former Leicester City player, Neville Hamilton, who sadly passed away in 2009.
Leon Mann MBE, co-founder of the Football Black List, said “We are delighted to be in Leicester celebrating the incredible Black community here within the football family.
“From a Premier League winning Captain raised in the East Midlands to a family of grassroots referees – this event will amplify the excellence of those of African and Caribbean heritage in the region.
“We are grateful to The FA, Leicestershire and Rutland FA, Leicester City FC and our brilliant community partners who are helping up deliver this important event.
“It is fitting to dedicate this event to Gerry Burke and Neville Hamilton – two incredible people from the football and Black community who made a huge impact.”
Media wishing to attend the Football Black List East Midlands celebration should email mia@timetorefresh.co.uk to register and get further details on timings.
