Steve Stacey

This Black History Month we wish to celebrate the career and impact of Steve Stacey.

Steve Stacey was born in Bristol on 27th August 1944 to Clarence Sims, an American GI stationed in England during the war, and Evelyn Stacey, who was working at the Muller Road orphanage. Clarence was forbidden from marrying Evelyn and returned to the US in the summer of 1945. Steve was subsequently brought up by Evelyn and his Granny Stacey in Oak Road, Bristol, where he would go on to win a scholarship to Fairfield Grammar School.

Steve was spotted by scouts while playing local football in the Downs League and signed a full contract with Bristol City (despite being a Bristol Rovers fan) in November 1961. Steve moved to Wrexham in 1966 and in a two-year spell played 105 league games and scored six goals.

Steve was transferred to First Division side Ipswich Town in September 1968 for £22,000, however, in his debut against Liverpool, he badly tore his hamstring – an injury that would plague his career. He had loan spells with Chester and Charlton Athletic before he returned to Bristol City in 1970. A transfer brought him to Exeter City the following year.

Steve made his league debut for the Grecians in a 4-0 opening day defeat at Southport in August 1971. He was to stay at St James Park for two seasons making 64 appearances, and scoring one goal against Walton & Hersham in the FA Cup.

Steve Stacey was the first black player to appear for Exeter City FC.

Following his successful playing career, Steve moved to Perth, Australia where he played for top local side Floreat Athena and held a variety of jobs, as well as studying for a degree in science and recreation. 

Through his work he sought to shape attitudes towards race in Australian Soccer, and supported initiatives that helped increase the indigenous population’s participation in sport. 

Steve returned to St James Park in 2019 to promote his book ‘The Colour of Football’ in which he recounts his career. An interview held is accessible on the Grecian Archive website.

The Grecian Archive – Interview · Steve Stacey | The Colour of Football (exeter.ac.uk)

“We are very proud of the trailblazing role Steve Stacey played at Exeter City.  It was brilliant to host him in 2019 when he held a launch event for his book at St James Park. 

It was clear he had very fond memories of his time with the Grecians. A top man” said Paul Farley, Chair of Exeter City Football Club Museum Trust.