Edwin, Brian & Mark Stein

From the structural racism of South Africa’s Apartheid to the professional ranks of English football, the Stein family’s story is one of challenge and triumph.

EARLY LIFE

Born in Athlone, Cape Town, to prominent anti-apartheid leaders, the Stein brothers were thrust into activism from an early age. Their parents, Isaiah and Lillian Stein, were at the forefront of growing protests against The Pass Laws Act of 1952, and in driving global consciousness of the atrocities of the regime. Imprisoned frequently — Isaiah at times with civil rights leader, Nelson Mandela — for their hand in facilitating protests and marches across the Western cape, and coordinating safe passage for banned persons, Isaiah and Lillian experienced unthinkable physical torture and surveillance, including 24-hour house arrest.

In 1968, in the midst of relentless persecution, they made the decision to leave the country for England, via a 21 day boat journey, where they would continue their pursuit of dismantling apartheid on arrival. For Edwin, age 12, Brian 10, and Mark just 18 months at the time of departure, a new story would be written.

Career highlights

Early adopters of football, Edwin, Brian and Mark each found success in the professional game, playing for the likes of Chelsea, Stoke City, Queens Park Rangers, Luton Town, and Bournemouth. Throughout their respective careers, they were activators for change, making history along the way.

Edwin and Brian started their careers at Edgware Town before signing as a duo to Luton Town in 1977. Edwin soon returned to non-league football where he made over 500 appearances for Barnet between 1982-1992. He moved swiftly from player to Manager at Barnet, and was just one of two black managers in the country at the time, alongside Keith Alexander.

Meanwhile, Brian’s journey at Luton Town included 130 goals in 427 appearances. He was instrumental in helping the Hatters to the top flight in 1982, and was widely celebrated for his two goals in the 1988 Littlewoods Cup final win over Arsenal at Wembley Stadium. More than 95,700 spectators were witness to Luton’s first major cup victory. Considered one of Luton Town’s best finishers to this day, Brian is second only to Gordon Turner in the post-war scoring charts.

In February of 1984, Brian made history by becoming the first African-born player to represent England’s U21 Side in 2-0 win against France in Paris. Later that year, he helped England win the 1984 UEFA European U21 Football Championships. He leveraged his discipline and success within the game to enlist other high-profile players in support of the anti-racism movement, including Chris Hughton, Garth Crooks, and John Fashanu.

With two brothers who had successfully carved out playing careers for themselves, it was no surprise that Mark would soon do the same. His foray into professional football came in January 1984 with Luton Town, where he earned three England U19 caps. Following short spells at Queens Park Rangers and Oxford United, Mark landed at Stoke City where he formed one half of a compelling forward partnership, alongside Wayne Biggins. The pair were opposite in size and style, but complimented one another perfectly. By April, the duo had a combined total of 42 goals.

Ultimately, it was the 1992/93 season that cemented Mark’s position in Potters’ history. Following Biggins’ exit for Barnsley, Stein flourished as a speedy striker with intelligent movement, ending the campaign with 33 goals. He earned the nickname the ‘Golden One’, after scoring twice in the Club’s historic victory of Manchester United in a 1993 League Cup Tie. There is perhaps no image more memorable for that generation of Stoke supporters, than the image of Mark unleashing the winning shot in front of a packed Victoria Ground.

Mark was adored by Stoke supporters for his goal scoring talent yet selfless style of play, and Premier League clubs took notice. In September 1993, the Potters accepted a bid of £1.65 million from Chelsea Football Club. Aged 27, Mark made the journey back to London, and into the Premier League where he would remain until 1998.

Throughout their respective careers, the Stein brothers have paid tribute to their parents, indirectly through their anti-racism efforts and through the launch of the IL Stein Foundation. Today, the Foundation uses sport as a vehicle for self-improvement, while providing practical and financial assistance to young people in the United Kingdom and Cape Town, South Africa.