Why are we doing this?

The inaugural BFP Trailblazer Awards are to celebrate and promote black footballers who broke the mould, created a pathway for todays football stars to achieve global success and left a legacy of courage, change and opportunity for all through their personal qualities and pursuit of excellence.

As Sir Isaac Newton said in 1675: ” if I have seen further [than others], it is by standing on the shoulders of giants. ” If Black players have represented every of the 92 clubs, have played in such numbers in the national teams have managed – it is all because of the trailblazing giants upon whose shoulders we stand. It is wonderful to be meeting here to honour those giants, by creating awards in their names.

What makes the BFP Trailblazer Awards particularly unique and special is that they are voted for by black footballers and coaches in the game.

These black footballers were truly Newton’s Giants; the FIRST, THE TRAILBLAZERS:

FIRST black male footballer – Arthur Wharton.
FIRST black female footballer – Emma Clarke.
FIRST black manager – Tony Collins.

And in the case of Kevin Campbell, who sadly passed away in 2024, he was the FIRST black captain of Everton football club.

What is each award about?

Each award is the name and the spirit of the footballer recognising their personal stories, their sporting prowess but also to show that they were more than a footballer, they were the Giants on whose shoulders we all stand. They scored goals, they cleared the ball off the line, they brought joy to fans and communities at the clubs that they played. But, speaking to their families and foundations they also brought a determination, hardwork and hope that, in the words of BFP ” break the grass ceiling ”

Because of these Giants, who’s names adorn these awards, our generation is able to see further, and more clearly. This generation of black players can see that they are the ones being denied opportunities off the pitch in an environment that is curiously hostile to their progression. They can see that they are 43% of the players; the stars of the premier league; 50% of the England squad. They have captained clubs and the national side. On merit black footballers continue to excel in the game.

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