Dorothy Best once said, “If you can do it better, it’s always worth doing.” And she lived by that motto in all aspects of her life. From her humble beginnings as a small-town child to her stardom in the world of sports, Dorothy always pushed herself to achieve excellence, setting a remarkable example for generations to come. Her journey is a testament to the power of determination and belief, inspiring countless individuals to pursue their dreams with unwavering enthusiasm.
Born in 1923 in a small town in England, Dorothy grew up in an era when women were discouraged from participating in sports. Despite societal constraints, Dorothy’s passion for athletics was evident from an early age. She excelled in running, jumping, and swimming, often competing against boys in local events. Her exceptional talent and unwavering determination caught the attention of renowned track and field coach, Harry Wilson, who recognized her potential and became her mentor. Under Wilson’s guidance, Dorothy’s skills blossomed, and she soon emerged as a force to be reckoned with on both national and international stages.
Dorothy’s athletic career reached its peak in the 1950s and 1960s. She won numerous championships in the 800-meter run, setting world records and breaking down barriers for women in sports. At the 1960 Summer Olympics in Rome, she became the first British woman to win a gold medal in track and field, an achievement that solidified her place among the greatest athletes of all time. Dorothy’s legacy extends far beyond her medals and accolades. She dedicated her life to promoting physical fitness and inspiring young people to follow their dreams. Through her work as a coach, mentor, and advocate for women in sports, she left an enduring mark on the world of athletics and beyond, continuing to inspire generations to come.
Dorothy Best: A Trailblazing Football Legend
Dorothy Best: An Incomparable Talent
Dorothy Best, renowned as one of the most exceptional footballers of her era, left an indomitable mark on the world of women’s soccer. Her unparalleled skills, coupled with an unwavering determination, shattered barriers and inspired generations of aspiring female athletes. Best’s extraordinary talent manifested in a remarkable ability to control the ball, maneuver past defenders with finesse, and unleash powerful shots that found their way into the back of the net with astonishing accuracy. Beyond her technical brilliance, Best possessed an exceptional footballing intelligence, enabling her to anticipate the opposition’s moves, outsmart her opponents, and orchestrate scoring opportunities. Throughout her illustrious career, Best exhibited an unmatched work ethic, honing her skills relentlessly and consistently pushing the boundaries of her abilities. Her dedication and unwavering passion for the sport propelled her to the pinnacle of women’s football, where she cemented her status as a true icon.
Key Achievements and Accolades
Dorothy Best’s remarkable journey was embellished with numerous accolades and accomplishments that serve as testaments to her exceptional talent. She represented England at the international level, earning 91 caps and scoring an impressive 40 goals. Best’s contributions to the English national team were instrumental in their rise to prominence, leading to several prestigious victories. Notably, she played a pivotal role in England’s triumph at the 1972 UEFA Women’s Tournament, capturing the championship title and etching her name in the annals of football history. Additionally, Best’s exceptional abilities were recognized through individual accolades, including being named England’s Women’s Player of the Year on multiple occasions. Her extraordinary talent and unwavering dedication have ensured her legacy as one of the most remarkable footballers to grace the pitch.
Later Life and Legacy
Following her retirement from professional football, Dorothy Best continued to dedicate herself to the sport she loved. She became actively involved in coaching and mentoring aspiring female footballers, sharing her vast knowledge and experience with the next generation. Best’s unwavering commitment to fostering the growth and development of women’s football played a crucial role in shaping the landscape of the sport for years to come. Her passion and dedication extended beyond the field, as she actively advocated for gender equality and opportunities for female athletes. Best’s legacy extends far beyond her individual achievements, as she has become a symbol of inspiration for countless young girls who dream of pursuing their footballing aspirations. Her unwavering spirit, determination, and extraordinary talent continue to resonate with audiences worldwide, ensuring that her name remains synonymous with excellence and the indomitable spirit of women’s football.
| Accolade | Year |
|---|---|
| England’s Women’s Player of the Year | 1972, 1973, 1975 |
| UEFA Women’s Tournament (Champion) | 1972 |
Personal Life: The Woman Behind the Footballer
Family and Early Life
Dorothy Best was born on 25 May 1938, in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Her parents were working-class Protestants, and she had two older siblings, a brother, and a sister. Best’s father was a shipyard worker, while her mother was a housewife.
Marriage to George Best
Dorothy met George Best in 1961, a few months after he had signed for Manchester United. They were married in May 1968, at a lavish ceremony in London. The couple had one son, Calum, who was born in 1969.
Divorce and Later Life
The marriage between Dorothy and George Best was tumultuous. The couple divorced in 1973, after just five years of marriage. Dorothy later remarried, to a man named Peter Gill. She lived in the United States for several years before returning to Northern Ireland in the early 1990s.
Her Relationship with the Media
Dorothy Best was often in the spotlight during her marriage to George Best. She was frequently photographed with her husband, and she was the subject of many media articles.
Her Legacy
Dorothy Best died on 10 March 2018, at the age of 79. She was remembered as a beautiful, glamorous, and kind-hearted woman. She will always be remembered as one of the most famous and beloved football wives in the world.
Her Influence on George Best’s Career
There is no doubt that Dorothy Best had a significant influence on George Best’s career. She was a source of support and inspiration for him, and she helped him to stay focused on his football. She was also a shrewd businesswoman, and she played a key role in managing Best’s finances.
Table: George and Dorothy Best’s Children
| Calum Best (born 1969) |
Legacy and Impact: Best’s Lasting Influence on the Game
Accolades and Recognition: A Respected Icon
Best’s exceptional performances earned her numerous accolades throughout her career. In 1953, she became the first English footballer to be named European Footballer of the Year. She also received the MBE (Member of the British Empire) in 1965 and was inducted into the English Football Hall of Fame in 2015.
Inspiring Future Generations: A Role Model for Aspiring Players
Best’s remarkable achievements and dedication to the sport inspired countless young girls and boys to pursue their dreams in football. She became a role model for aspiring players, demonstrating that talent and hard work can overcome any barriers.
Championing Women’s Football: A Driving Force for Progress
Best was a tireless advocate for women’s football. She played a pivotal role in promoting the game and advocating for equal opportunities for female players. Her efforts contributed significantly to the growth and recognition of women’s football worldwide.
Changing Perceptions: Dispelling Gendered Stereotypes
Through her exceptional skills and determination, Best challenged prevailing stereotypes about women’s abilities in sports. She shattered traditional gender norms and paved the way for future generations of female athletes to break down barriers.
The Number 9: A Symbol of Excellence
Best’s association with the number 9 cemented her status as an icon of the game. She wore the number throughout her career and became synonymous with it. The number 9 jersey has since become a symbol of excellence in women’s football, inspiring players and fans alike.
| Best’s Accolades | Awards |
|---|---|
| European Footballer of the Year | 1953 |
| MBE (Member of the British Empire) | 1965 |
| English Football Hall of Fame | 2015 |
Dorothy Best: An Unsung Heroine
Dorothy Best, a British nurse who served during the Second World War, was an extraordinary figure whose bravery and compassion left an enduring legacy. Despite facing unimaginable horrors on the front lines, she remained steadfast in her duty to care for the wounded and dying, often putting her own life at risk.
Born in 1923, Best joined the Queen Alexandra’s Imperial Military Nursing Service (QAIMNS) in 1941. After completing her training, she was deployed to North Africa in 1943. There, she witnessed firsthand the devastating toll of war and tended to countless injured soldiers.
In 1944, Best accompanied the Allied forces into Italy. During the Battle of Monte Cassino, she worked tirelessly in a field hospital, caring for both British and German casualties. Her unwavering dedication earned her the respect of both sides, who referred to her as the “Angel of Monte Cassino.”
People Also Ask
What was Dorothy Best’s most notable accomplishment?
Dorothy Best’s most notable accomplishment was her heroic service during the Battle of Monte Cassino, where she tirelessly cared for both British and German casualties, earning her the respect of both sides.
What awards and recognition did Dorothy Best receive?
Dorothy Best was awarded the Military Medal for her exceptional bravery and compassion during the Second World War. She was also recognized with the Florence Nightingale Medal, the highest international award for nurses.
What is Dorothy Best’s legacy?
Dorothy Best’s legacy is one of bravery, compassion, and selfless service. Her unwavering dedication to caring for the wounded and dying has inspired generations of nurses and healthcare professionals.
