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**Sheffield United F.C. Unveil “Billy Sharp” Statue, Honor Star with \$1,000,000 Charitable Donation and Legacy Initiative**
*Sheffield, England – June 5, 2025*
In an emotional and historic ceremony at Bramall Lane, Sheffield United F.C. today unveiled a bronze statue of club legend Billy Sharp, immortalizing the Blades’ all-time leading goal scorer in front of a crowd of fans, former players, and local dignitaries.
But the statue was only the beginning.
In a powerful gesture that reflected Sharp’s deep connection with the Sheffield community, the club also announced a \$1,000,000 (£790,000) charitable donation to local youth and mental health programs, creating the **Billy Sharp Legacy Fund**—a long-term initiative aimed at supporting underprivileged children, grassroots football, and mental wellness across South Yorkshire.
### “A Blade Forever”
The statue, crafted by acclaimed sculptor Hannah Stewart, captures Sharp in a celebratory pose, arms outstretched in front of the Kop—symbolizing the passion and spirit he brought to the pitch. Positioned outside the South Stand, it now stands as a permanent tribute to the striker who scored over 120 goals across three spells with the club and led Sheffield United to multiple promotions.
“This isn’t just about goals. It’s about heart,” said club chairman Yusuf Al-Mahdi during the ceremony. “Billy Sharp gave everything to this club. He’s a Blade through and through. Today we celebrate the man who inspired a generation.”
### Sharp: “The Biggest Honor of My Life”
A visibly emotional Sharp addressed the crowd with his wife and children by his side. “Growing up, I dreamed of playing for this club. I never imagined I’d be standing here next to a statue of myself,” he said. “But the donation and the Legacy Fund—that’s what makes me proudest. Football gave me so much. I want to give back.”
### The Billy Sharp Legacy Fund
The Legacy Fund will partner with schools, youth academies, and mental health charities, focusing on three key areas:
* **Youth Football Access**: Providing kits, coaching, and facilities to disadvantaged kids in Sheffield.
* **Mental Health Support**: Funding counseling and outreach programs in local schools and community centers.
* **Scholarships & Mentorships**: Supporting young people with leadership potential in both sport and education.
The club also announced that a percentage of ticket and merchandise sales each season will continue to support the fund.
### Fans React with Emotion and Pride
Supporters from across the UK and beyond took to social media to celebrate the announcement. “#SharpForever” trended on Twitter/X within minutes of the unveiling, while the club’s video of the statue reveal hit 2 million views in under 12 hours.
Lifelong fan Sandra Doyle, 72, summed up the mood: “Billy’s not just a great footballer—he’s one of us. He’s Sheffield. This statue, this fund—it’s perfect.”
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**About Billy Sharp**
Born in Sheffield in 1986, Billy Sharp rose through the club’s academy and became a symbol of passion and perseverance in English football. He captained the Blades to Premier League promotion in 2019 and is widely recognized for his off-pitch advocacy and community work, including raising awareness for child loss following the death of his newborn son, Luey.
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