by Staff Writer
Monday, 9th June 2025
Former West Ham United striker Clyde Best MBE has received an Honorary Doctorate of Sport from the University of Sunderland in London.
Clyde’s eight-year career with West Ham, based in the University’s neighbouring east London borough, saw him score more than 58 goals in over 200 appearances for the Irons.
His move to east London, from his native Bermuda in 1968 at just 17 years of age, was “a dream come true” for Clyde and saw him play alongside England World Cup heroes, including Bobby Moore.
As the first black football superstar of the modern TV era, though, it was a dream that saw him come up against frequent racism from the terraces, all so prevalent at the time.
However, Clyde’s inspirational determination to play football, keep the fans showing up week after week, and pave the way for future generations of footballers, motivated him throughout his career.
He said: “The most important thing is to remember that you are not just playing for yourself, you are playing for those playing after you.”
Five decades after leaving The Hammers, east London is still a place dear to Clyde’s heart. He has been proud to see east London develop as an area, especially since the 2012 Olympic Games.
Sharing his passion for the real, lifelong value of education, Clyde explained how “Football is for part of your life, but education is for your entire life.”
On receiving the Honorary Doctorate of Sport on Wednesday 4 June, during the university’s graduations at Southwark Cathedral, Best said: “It is a great honour and privilege to be recognised for my work by the University.”
Clyde’s untold story is featured in the new, upcoming documentary Transforming the Beautiful Game – premiering in March 2026 – which explores how his journey shaped the future of football worldwide.
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