The contribution of Manchester City’s former pioneering goalkeeper and community leader, Alex Williams MBE, and outstanding individuals in the Black community in football was celebrated at the Football Black List Manchester celebration at the National Football Museum.
Hosted by Sky Sports presenter Kyle Walker, the event – supported by the FA – brought together influential figures from across Greater Manchester to pay tribute to the impact of Black talent in grassroots and community football. Awardees on the night were selected by a panel including representation from the Manchester County FA, Manchester United, Manchester City and Black community leaders.
The night honoured the legacy of the Manchester City ex-goalkeeper and community champion, Alex Williams MBE, recognising his influence in the sport and dedication to supporting the younger generation in football.
Head of Women’s Football at Burnley FC, Lola Ogunbote, took part in an inspiring panel, alongside Martin Ingham-Griffith from the Premier League’s Charitable Fund and community mentor, Lathan Forrester, who is working with City in the Community. The panelists spoke about their individual experiences as Black people in football, their personal journeys and heartwarming stories on how they each fought against the barriers placed upon them.
The night also included a second panel focused on match officials with WSL referee, Ade Soneye, and national game referee, Feiruz Abdullahi, sharing their stories of breaking barriers as Black referees in the game.
The celebration evening highlighted the achievements of Old Trafford Juniors F.C., a local team known for developing a number of their participants into Premier League academy players at clubs including Everton, Manchester City and Manchester United. Experienced coaches, John Grant and Dave Esdaile, picked up the award on behalf of the club, which also honoured the role they both played in shaping lives and nurturing talent.
The show closed with a tribute to the late Ralph Inniss, one of the first Black coaches in Manchester, highlighting his contributions to both the Black community and the game.
Alex Williams MBE
Amanda Hilton
Emmanuel Afranie Jr
Feiruz Abdullahi
Kimoni Bell
Mike McKenzie
Old Trafford Juniors FC
Football Black List co-founder Rodney Hinds, reflected on a hugely successful celebration. “It was another amazing, inspirational night at the National Football Museum”, said Hinds.
“The Football Black List event in Manchester goes from strength to strength. We were there two years ago, but on this occasion it seemed to go up yet another level.
“Congratulations to all the award winners and to Manchester’s football community. I feel blessed and privileged to have been part of the event. Long may it continue and see you again Manchester, some time very soon.”
The Football Black List would like to thank everyone who attended and played their part in making a memorable evening.
