Frank Soo: Honoring England's First Player of Asian Descent in Hall of Fame
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Frank Soo: A Trailblazer in English Football's History
The football world is about to witness a historic moment as Frank Soo, the first Asian heritage footballer to represent England, is set to be inducted into The National Football Museum Hall of Fame. This significant recognition emphasizes the contributions of minorities in the sport and promotes the idea of representation in football.
Early Life and Career
Buxton-born Frank Soo, whose father had Chinese roots, made his mark during wartime football. He represented England in a match against Wales at Ninian Park in 1942, becoming the first player of Asian heritage to don the English jersey. Raised in Liverpool, Soo began his football journey with Prescott Cables as a teenager, later making a name for himself with Stoke City, where he made over 250 appearances and played alongside legends like Sir Stanley Matthews.
Breaking Barriers
During the years of World War II, Soo's participation in nine wartime internationals (1942-1945) added to his legacy. As the first person of East or South East Asian (ESEA) heritage to play in the Football League, his accomplishments often went unnoticed over the years. Despite his contributions, Soo never received an official England cap due to the wartime matches being classified as unofficial.
A Pioneer Recognized
Tim Desmond, CEO of The National Football Museum, stated, "Frank's story is incredibly inspiring and we hope this induction contributes to his legacy." The ceremony honoring Soo will take place at the bet365 Stadium before the Stoke City vs Derby County match on November 2.
Continued Representation Efforts
The induction is timely, coinciding with the East and South East Asian Heritage Match, aiming to shed light on the achievements of players from ESEA backgrounds. Alan Lau, co-founder of the Frank Soo Foundation, expressed hope that Soo's recognition will inspire the younger generation and celebrate the contributions of ESEA communities to football.
The Honorary Cap Debate
Last year, the FA awarded a posthumous honorary cap to Jack Leslie, the first Black footballer selected for England in 1925, highlighting a growing recognition of the historical contributions of minority players. Soo's great niece, Jacqui Soo, called for similar recognition for her uncle, emphasizing that a cap could serve as a source of inspiration for children from diverse backgrounds.
Legacy Beyond the Pitch
Frank Soo's influence extend beyond his playing career; he enjoyed stints in management with clubs in Italy, Norway, and Sweden. His journey is a testament to the impact of football as a platform for representation, bridging gaps across cultures and communities.
Conclusion
With changes in the football landscape promoting inclusivity, Frank Soo’s induction into the Hall of Fame symbolizes a recognition of the importance of diversity in sports. As history recognizes more pioneers like Soo, the hope is to inspire future generations to break barriers and celebrate their heritage in football.