Premier League Mourns Loss of Trailblazing Referee
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Uriah Rennie, first Black official in the league, passes away at 65
The world of football is mourning the death of Uriah Rennie, a pioneering figure who broke barriers as the Premier LeagueS first Black referee. He was 65.
A Groundbreaking Career
Rennie began officiating matches in 1994 and went on to oversee more than 300 top-flight games between 1997 and 2008,leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
Kick It Out, an anti-discrimination charity, recognized Rennie‘s significant impact, stating he was “a trailblazer in every sense.”
The organization further noted his “leadership, talent and visibility that proved inspirational to many,”
solidifying his status as a Premier League legend.
The Premier League itself acknowledged Rennie‘s pioneering spirit, stating that his “legacy will live on, continuing to inspire future generations.”
Rennie‘s journey to the top echelons of football began in local leagues in 1979.In 1997, he made history when he officiated a Premier League match between Derby County and Wimbledon.
Leon Mann, co-founder of the Football Black List, expressed his sadness at the news, calling Rennie “A Black pioneering referee and leader in the game.”
He emphasized the importance of remembering those who paved the way, stating, “We owe so much to those who push open the doors. Uriah should never, ever be forgotten.”
Incredibly, the number of black, Asian and mixed heritage referees in English professional football is still only around 6%, according to recent research (RunRepeat,2023).
uriah Rennie was not only a referee but also a magistrate in Sheffield since 1996.He actively campaigned for equality,inclusion,mental health awareness,and tackling deprivation.
More Than just Football
Beyond his contributions to football,rennie held a master’s degree in business administration and law. In November 2023, Sheffield Hallam University awarded him an honorary doctorate for his contributions to sport and his community work.
In May,Rennie achieved another milestone when he was appointed as the chancellor of Sheffield Hallam University.
Everyone at Sheffield & Hallamshire County FA are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former Chair, Uriah Rennie.
Uriah was a trailblazing referee who broke down barriers, shaped our football community and inspired generations to come.
Our thoughts are with Uriah’s… https://t.co/9u2v3TPz04 pic.twitter.com/9vmyjGTJhW
— Sheffield & Hallamshire FA (@SHCFA) April 29, 2024
The Sheffield & Hallamshire County Football Association described thier former chair as a “trailblazing referee”
who “broke down barriers, shaped our football community and inspired generations to come.”
Uriah Rennie‘s story reminds us that success often comes from overcoming obstacles. His dedication to both football and his community serves as an inspiration to us all.
Recently, Rennie had revealed that he was learning to walk again after a rare condition caused paralysis from the waist down, demonstrating his resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
Born in Jamaica, uriah rennie moved to Sheffield as a child and grew up in the Wybourn area, where he began his journey to becoming a celebrated figure in English football.
