Jack Leslie: First black british footballer (1901-1988) Scored 250 Goals!

 

A new statue of Jack Leslie was unveiled outside the stadium of his former club, Plymouth Argyle. Leslie was a trailblazing football athlete who, had he been allowed to play in 1925, would have been the first Black player to represent England. The unveiling ceremony was attended by hundreds of fans, family members, and former Argyle players, celebrating Leslie’s legacy and contributions to the sport.

The statue stands 3.7 meters (12 feet) tall and was created by sculptor Andy Edwards. It depicts Leslie with his arms stretched wide in celebration after scoring a goal, serving as a powerful symbol of resilience and determination. The monument honors Leslie’s pioneering spirit and highlights the ongoing fight for equality and diversity in football, connecting past struggles with present efforts.

The campaign to fund the statue began in 2019, with fans raising £140,000 to bring the project to life. According to Tiller, having Leslie’s statue outside the club is a source of pride for Argyle supporters. 

However, he emphasizes that the statue represents more than just the club or Leslie himself; it symbolizes the broader fight against racial discrimination and the importance of inclusion in sports and society.

Jack Leslie Statue at Plymouth Argyle