SIA 08: Sir Bobby Wins Lifetime Achievement Award

Football legend Sir Bobby Charlton was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Sport Industry Awards 2008.

Sir Bobby Charlton was recognised for a generation of dedication and commitment to his chosen sport and collected his prize to a standing ovation from an appreciative packed house of industry executives and sport and entertainment celebrities.

The England and Manchester United football legend was presented his award by fellow knights of realm and lifelong friends, famed boxer Sir Henry Cooper and one of our greatest ever broadcasters Sir Michael Parkinson.

Boasting a World Cup winner’s medal, 106 caps and 49 international goals to his name, there is little doubt in Sir Bobby Charlton’s status as a true footballing legend but his work off the pitch has been as inspirational with his famous and pioneering Soccer Schools – one of the first of their kind and responsible for introducing such talent as David Beckham – now entering their 30th year.

In introducing Sir Bobby Charlton on stage, Sir Michael Parkinson enthused:

‘The Lifetime Achievement Award goes to a footballer who was not only a truly great player but a man whose example both on and off the field was both impeccable and inspirational.

Not only is he the perfect example to set before the youth of today he is also an object lesson to today’s players who could learn a lot from his modest manner and deep commitment to upholding the dignity and responsibility of his profession.

I have known him forty years or so and am proud to be in his company. I knew Matt Busby too, well enough not to argue his assessment of footballers. He described our Lifetime Achievement winner as being “as near perfection as a man and a player as it is possible to be”. No-one who knows Sir Bobby would argue with that.’