Steve Ford (1959-2025)
The BHAFC Foundation is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Steve Ford, aged 66.
Steve was a hugely respected and much-loved figure at the club, best known as one of the founding fathers of Albion in the Community, which has since evolved into the Brighton & Hove Albion Foundation.
Born in Shoreham and educated at Hove Grammar School, Steve represented England at schoolboy level and enjoyed a professional football career, playing for Stoke City, AEL Limassol in Cyprus and Finn Harps in Hong Kong before training as a PE teacher at the University of Brighton. He later earned an MA in Management in Education.
In 1990, Steve launched Brighton & Hove Albion’s Football in the Community programme, operating from a modest Portakabin at the Goldstone Ground car park.
His vision and tireless commitment transformed that initiative into one of the most respected community schemes in English football. Under his leadership as managing director, Albion in the Community became a national benchmark for using football as a force for good.
Steve’s work extended far beyond the pitch. His passion for helping others saw him contribute to numerous charities after leaving the club in 2013, including Millwall Community Trust, Sussex Cricket Foundation and the Grace Eyre Foundation. He also helped build an international soccer programme in the United States, further demonstrating his global impact on the game.
Reflecting on Steve’s legacy, Albion director Ray Bloom said, “Steve’s contribution to Brighton & Hove Albion and the wider community was invaluable. His vision and dedication laid the foundations for what is now the Albion Foundation, and his work touched countless lives. He was a true pioneer and a wonderful person who will be greatly missed.”
Steve was a stalwart of the Goldstone era, an ever-present during the club’s time at Gillingham and Withdean and proudly witnessed Albion’s move to the Amex.
He leaves behind his beloved wife Rachel and son Harry. The thoughts of everyone at the Brighton & Hove Albion Foundation are with Steve’s family and friends at this difficult time.