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Gareth Southgate Recognized with Knighthood

Gareth Southgate, the former England manager, has been honored with a knighthood in the New Year's honors list, recognizing his significant contributions to football. Southgate's impressive tenure saw England reach two consecutive European Championship finals, making him one of only three managers to lead the national team in over 100 matches. Now 54 years old, Southgate’s achievements have solidified his place among England's coaching legends, joining the ranks of Sir Walter Winterbottom, Sir Alf Ramsey, and Sir Bobby Robson.

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Southgate had previously been awarded an OBE in 2019, marking the end of England's 55-year wait for a men's final at Euro 2020, where they faced Italy in a penalty shootout. Despite suffering another defeat in the summer against Spain in the latest final, Southgate's impact on English football remains profound. Following his departure from the manager’s role, he hinted that his next endeavor may lie outside the sport.

Off the pitch, Southgate has demonstrated a commitment to charitable work, notably supporting the Prince’s Trust, a youth charity aimed at helping young individuals access education, training, and job opportunities.

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FA chair Debbie Huitt expressed immense pride in Southgate's honor, highlighting his embodiment of the best qualities in English football across his career as a player and manager. Her statement emphasized the emotions and gratitude felt throughout the football community in light of his contributions and leadership.

Honoring Rugby and Paralympic Greats

In a night of recognition, former Wales rugby star Sir Gerald Davies was also knighted for his services to Rugby Union and charitable endeavors. The 79-year-old, who scored 20 tries across 46 tests for Wales and was part of the legendary 1971 Lions squad, expressed deep gratitude for the honor, attributing much of his success to the unwavering support from his family and friends.

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Additionally, the New Year’s honors recognized two distinguished women from Team GB's Paralympic success. Hannah Cockroft, a nine-time Paralympic champion, was awarded a BBE after bringing home two gold medals in Paris. She reflected on the year’s achievements, including personal milestones such as her wedding, and described the honor as a fitting conclusion to an incredible year.

Penny Brisco, who served as the Chef de Mission for Paralympics GB at Paris and played a pivotal role in transforming the perception of Paralympic sports since London 2012, was awarded a CBE. Her decades-long journey in supporting athletes showcased the profound changes and successes in British Paralympic sports.

Celebrating Olympic Success

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Numerous Team GB athletes were recognized, including Tom Pitcock, who became the youngest winner of the Tour de France. Helen Glover’s return from retirement to win silver in rowing and Alice Tai’s impressive performance at the Paralympics earned them OBEs, signifying their remarkable journeys in sport.

Sky Sports F1 commentator Martin Brundle had his MBE upgraded to OBE, honoring his long-standing involvement in motorsport. Meanwhile, David Moyes, whose extensive football career saw West Ham capture their first major European trophy, received an OBE as well. Moyes reflected on the impact of the influential figures throughout his career, acknowledging the support of his family and mentors.

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In track and field, Kay Hodkinson and Sabrina Fortune were both honored for their outstanding performances in the 800 meters and shot put, respectively. Hodkinson became the first long-distance champion for Team GB since Mo Farah, while Fortune triumphed in the Paralympics, setting a new world record in the process.

Acknowledgments Across the Sporting Community

Bryony Page made history as the first trampolinist to secure Olympic gold for Team GB and was also honored with an MBE. Her heartfelt response highlighted the collective efforts behind her success.

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Northern Ireland's Hannah Scott also received an MBE for her groundbreaking achievement in rowing, aiming to inspire young female athletes to persist in their sporting pursuits. Other notable honorees included Dina Asher-Smith, celebrated as Great Britain’s fastest woman, and Alan Hansen, a former footballer turned pundit recognized for his substantial influence in the sport.

Each of these exceptional individuals’ stories represents dedication, talent, and the spirit of sportsmanship, reflecting the enriching impact of sports in uniting and inspiring communities across the nation.