February 15th: Today’s Feature

February

‘The Three Degrees’ Statue - West Bromwich Albion

A statue has been erected in West Bromwich to pay tribute to three influential footballers who made a significant impact on the development of black professional players in the UK. Laurie Cunningham, Brendon Batson, and Cyrille Regis, who played for West Bromwich Albion in the late 1970s, will always be remembered and honoured for their contributions to the sport. These three players were affectionately referred to as the Three Degrees by their manager, Ron Atkinson.

During the 1978 season, Cunningham, Batson, and Regis made history by becoming the first trio of black players to regularly feature in a top-flight club. Their presence on the field not only broke barriers but also inspired a generation of black footballers in the UK. Their skill, determination, and success paved the way for future black players to pursue their dreams in professional football.

The unveiling of the statue, which is estimated to have cost £200,000, took place in West Bromwich on 15 July 2014. This date holds a special significance as it marks the 25th anniversary of Laurie Cunningham's tragic death in a car accident in Spain. The statue will serve as a lasting tribute to these remarkable individuals and their enduring legacy in the world of football. It stands as a symbol of their achievements and the impact they had on breaking down racial barriers in the sport, inspiring generations to come.

Laurie Cunningham, the talented and lightning-fast winger, showcased his skills not only for England but also for several renowned clubs such as Real Madrid and later Manchester United. Tragically, he passed away at the age of 33 in 1989, leaving behind a profound impact on the world of football. His cousin, Claudette Samuel, emphasised the immense legacy he left behind, a legacy that continues to resonate within the football community to this day.

The impact of Cunningham, Batson, and Regis on the game of football has been widely recognised by both players and pundits. These three individuals faced immense challenges during their time at West Brom in the 1978-79 season, enduring racist abuse from fans. Despite this adversity, they managed to lead the club to a remarkable third-place finish and even defeated Manchester United 5-3 at Old Trafford.

Their achievements on the field not only brought success to West Brom but also paved the way for aspiring young black players in the 1980s. Their triumphs were seen as a beacon of hope for those who dreamed of becoming professional footballers. The influence of Cunningham, Batson, and Regis extended far beyond their own careers, as they inspired a generation of black players to pursue their dreams and break down barriers in the sport.

Despite facing numerous challenges, the Three Degrees remained undeterred, steadily gaining momentum and support. Their manager, Ron Atkinson, recognised their unwavering spirit and likened them to the famous Motown group of the same name.

He was quick to point out that their journey towards becoming role models was not a conscious effort on their part. Instead, it was a natural progression, fuelled by their unwavering determination and resilience.

He emphasised that their ability to inspire others was not a deliberate choice, but rather a consequence of their authentic and genuine approach to life.

The recognition of their contributions to the game is evident in the 10ft-high statue called The Celebration. Renowned sculptor Graham Ibbeson, known for his work on statues of iconic figures such as Eric Morecambe and Don Revie, created this tribute.

The Celebration statue will serve as a lasting symbol of the journey and progress made by black footballers, as well as the acceptance and support shown by Albion fans and supporters everywhere.

This statue, although created to honour the names and talents of Cunningham, Batson, and Regis, serves also as a representation of the collective efforts and achievements of black footballers throughout history.