Mike McKenzie, who changed the game in football management has passed away at 67. Known for changing things up at Hyde United McKenzie was loved for winning games and helping young players. His effect went way beyond just football touching lots of players and other managers during his time.
- McKenzie was one of the first black football managers in Tameside
- He got Hyde United to win lots including getting to the FA Cup First Round
- He helped lots of players become better
McKenzie’s Amazing Career
Mike McKenzie who people remember as one of the first black football managers died after being sick for a bit. He was in charge at Hyde United from 1994 to 2001 where his teams won a lot. They got to the FA Cup First Round which was really big and nearly won the FA Trophy in 1995 and 1996. McKenzie’s teams also won other stuff like getting the Manchester Premier Cup three times and other things too.
Tributes have been paid to Mike McKenzie, a trailblazer for black managers, who has died aged 65 following a short illness.
https://t.co/Xp96I2gAvh
— The Non-League Paper (@NonLeaguePaper)
February 02, 2025
Legacy and Mentorship
Besides winning games McKenzie was like a dad to lots of players who looked up to him. He helped make good players even better like Peter Band Darren Sheridan Colin Little Rob Hulse Simon Yeo and Wayne Collins. People noticed how good he was and in November 2024 the Football Black List gave him an award.
Early Career and Influence
Before being a manager McKenzie played semi-pro football at places like Stalybridge Celtic Droylsden and Northwich Victoria. He was one of the first black semi-pro coaches anyone could remember in the country which helped other people follow him. He changed things for lots of people not just in football but everywhere.
McKenzie didn’t just win trophies he changed people’s lives and made it easier for others to follow him. What he did was kind of like what happened at York City FC. If you want to know more about winning in football you should check out what Maidstone United did with their winning streak.
