There are sports awards, those which crown a success acquired at the end of a season or at the end of a big tournament.
And, then, there are the others, who sometimes salute an individual commitment to a cause.
Failing to lift the championship trophy of England with his club, Manchester United, Marcus Rashford was honored this Tuesday at Windsor Castle with the title of Member of the British Empire (MBE), the last of the five ranks of the Order of the British Empire.
And this from the hands of Prince William, also president of the national federation, as a reward for the multiple social actions of the 24-year-old player.
A shining example to all of us 🌟
Dr Marcus Rashford MBE everybody 🎖👏 # MUFC pic.twitter.com/dEVSzr1p8l
- Manchester United (@ManUtd) November 9, 2021
The Mancunian striker, unhappy hero with his selection of the last Euro against Italy, indicated that he would give his medal to his mother, Melanie, present at his side, who raised him with his four siblings.
“I try to give children what I didn't have when I was little.
I'm just giving them an opportunity and I think they deserve it.
What child does not deserve?
"
“For me, it's a punishment that they can't afford meals or books,” he added.
These are small changes but they can have a big impact.
I see the generation that comes after me as a very special generation.
They just need someone to show them the right direction and that's what I do.
"
In total, nearly 135 million euros (120 million pounds) had been released last year by the British government to ensure the distribution of meal vouchers to underprivileged children throughout the summer.