HISTORICALLY ST. PETE Rui Farias: Rowdies Legend Clyde Best & New Documentary

Museum Director, Rui Farias, helps unfold this incredible story in his interview with Clyde Best – the first black football superstar of the modern TV Era in England, who went on to become a soccer legend in the North American Soccer League (NASL).
St. Petersburg Museum of History executive director Rui Farias' exclusive interview with Clyde Best, the legendary Rowdies player, showcases Best career and his legacy beyond English football in advance of his documentary fresh from its London premiere and appearance at The Palladium 5/8 Transforming the Beautiful Game: The Clyde Best Story. Doors at 6:30pm | Show at 7:30pm
VIP: $85 (Red carpet/meet the stars and best GA seats). General Admission: $35.
Transforming the Beautiful Game is a first-hand look at the iconic groundbreaking journey and impact of Clyde Best –the first black football superstar of the modern TV Era in England, who went on to become a soccer legend in the North American Soccer League (NASL). This East Coast Premiere of the documentary will include a red carpet and meet-and-greet, sponsorship activation, and post-panel discussion with Clyde and other film stars. This event honors sport, racial equity, and cultural transformation during a historical summer of soccer in North America.
👉"Was he the Jackie Robinson of soccer," asked Farias during the insightful interview. Listen and decide for yourself.
ABOUT CLYDE BEST AND THE TAMPA BAY ROWDIES
Clyde Best was a key member of the Tampa Bay Rowdies team that captured the 1975 NASL Championship, winning Soccer Bowl ’75 in the club’s inaugural season. His presence brought international experience, physicality, and professionalism to a young squad that quickly became one of the league’s most exciting teams. The championship run helped cement the Rowdies’ place in American soccer history and introduced a passionate fan base in Tampa Bay for the global game. For Best, the 1975 title represented both a career milestone and a powerful extension of his pioneering legacy beyond English football. Rowdies fans are invited to gather for a screening, discussion, and celebration of all Clyde Best has done for the soccer community.