Former Football Star Leads the Way in Safeguarding Young Athletes

In a significant breakthrough for child protection in sports, former England footballer Paul Stewart has been honored with the prestigious Sir Bobby Charlton Award. This accolade recognizes his unwavering commitment to safeguarding young athletes from abuse, a cause he has passionately championed for nearly a decade.

A Journey of Resilience and Advocacy

Stewart, who has opened up about his own traumatic experiences with abuse in sports, first gained public attention in 2016 when he shared his story in the Mirror. Since then, he has dedicated himself to protecting young sports stars across the nation, providing training on abuse prevention in Premier League Academies and all 72 clubs within the English Football League.

Impact and Recognition

Upon receiving the award, Stewart expressed deep gratitude, noting that, despite his accolades on the pitch, his work in safeguarding children would stand as his true legacy. "This recognition means more to me than all of the accolades during my playing career," he stated. The Football Association lauded his efforts, emphasizing how vital his contributions are to the football community and beyond.

Inspiration Beyond Football

Stewart's influence extends to various sports, galvanizing support from high-profile figures including rugby legend Kevin Sinfield and Olympic medallist Marilyn Okoro. His commitment to safeguarding has inspired the establishment of a union for safeguarding officers, aiming for recognized rights and advocacy parallel to that of professional athletes.

Moreover, Stewart's pioneering 'Fundamentals' training courses have set a benchmark in the industry, pushing for a dedicated Safeguarding Act to protect children. His efforts were recently acknowledged during a visit to Poland, showcasing the international reach of his mission.

A Call to Action

As he continues his work with an array of stakeholders, including the Football Association, Stewart’s journey epitomizes the transformative power of sport. His story reminds us that the fight against abuse in youth sports is not just a personal battle; it is a collective responsibility that requires continuous vigilance and proactive measures to ensure a safe environment for future generations of athletes.