'Trailblazer' Raheem Sterling receives top honour at Sporting Equals diversity awards

Joe Krishnan6 April 2019

Raheem Sterling has been named sportsman of the year at the Sporting Equals British Ethnic Diversity Sports Awards (BEDSAs).

The Manchester City star had arguably the most impressive year of his career at both club and international level with a series of standout performances.

He was a key figure for his club in 2017-18, scoring 23 goals as Pep Guardiola's side won the Premier League title and League Cup, while also reaching the World Cup semi-finals with England in Russia.

Speaking after receiving the award, Sterling said: "I just want to say thank you for the award it’s a massive honour.

"Sporting Equals are doing some amazing work and it’s a massive honour to be associated with them."

As well as his fine work on the pitch, the 24-year-old was hailed as a "trailblazer" in combating racism in football after dealing with racist abuse at both club and international level this season.

Photo: Sporting Equals
Sporting Equals

"We are honouring Raheem as the Sportsman of the Year, not only for his terrific success on the pitch but also his commitment and dedication off the pitch to champion race equality in sport," said Arun Kang, CEO of Sporting Equals.

"He is a trailblazer in his fight against racism and we are proud that he has become an iconic British sports star who represents so much for BAME communities and the entire sporting community, and will do for generations to come.”

Former Arsenal footballer Brendon Batson picked up a lifetime achievement award after serving as a chairman for the organisation and the 66-year-old was keen to pay tribute to the City man.

"I think Raheem has come through a lot already," he said. "He's a young man, he's only 24 and has had a spotlight on him, which has helped him mature beyond his years.

"I think he made a fantastic gesture today at the match, inviting over 500 kids from his old school [to watch the FA Cup semi-final against Brighton].

"He's a tremendous individual, one of the best players in the world at the moment and we hope he has a very long career and success with England as well."

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