March 12th: Today’s Feature

March

Clyde Cyril Best OBE (born 24 February 1951) is a Bermudian former football player. He was one of the first black players in First Division football in England, scoring 47 goals as a striker for West Ham United between 1968 and 1976.

Early and personal life

Best moved from Bermuda to England at the age of 17, to play for West Ham United. Upon his arrival he was looked after by club captain Bobby Moore. He has credited Moore and fellow West Ham players Harry Redknapp and Billy Bonds with helping him deal with racist abuse.

Playing Career

Best, one of England's pioneering black footballers, faced racist abuse from the stands early in his career but eventually won over the fans at Upton Park. Known for his strength and skill as a traditional English centre forward, he was a formidable presence on the field, difficult to dispossess and dominant in the air.

Making his debut for West Ham United at just 18 years old in a match against Arsenal in August 1969, Best quickly made an impact. His first goal for the Hammers came in a League Cup game against Halifax Town in September of the same year. In a memorable moment, he even stepped in as a goalkeeper in a match against Leeds United in 1973 due to an injury.

Over the course of 7 seasons with West Ham, Best played 218 games and scored 58 goals, leaving a lasting legacy at the club. Despite a less successful stint in the Dutch Eredivisie with Feyenoord, where he struggled to find the back of the net, he found success in the United States playing for teams like Tampa Bay Rowdies, Toronto Blizzard, and Portland Timbers in the NASL.

Best's time with Tampa Bay was particularly memorable, as he scored a crucial goal in Soccer Bowl '75 to secure the Rowdies' first NASL championship. He continued to shine in the indoor season, leading the Rowdies to the 1976 title and earning the tournament MVP award. With 11 goals and 5 assists in the 1976 indoor season, Best proved to be a key player for the Rowdies.

Managerial Career

Clyde Best had a managerial career that included a stint as an assistant coach for the San Diego Sockers in the early 1990s. During this time, he also took on the role of coaching the Bermuda national team from 1997 to 1999, showcasing his expertise in the sport.

Later Life

Following the conclusion of his coaching career, Best decided to retire and return to his home country of Bermuda. This allowed him to reflect on his achievements and contributions to the world of football.

Honours

Best's remarkable achievements did not go unnoticed, as he was honoured with induction into the prestigious Bermuda National Sports Hall of Fame in 2004. Additionally, his dedication and impact on football and the community in Bermuda were recognized when he was awarded an MBE in the 2006 New Year Honours list. This recognition further solidified his status as a respected figure in the sport.