Jack Pearce MBE receives honorary doctorate from Chichester University

The University of Chichester has awarded an Honorary Doctor of Sport on former National League chairman, Jack Pearce MBE.

The honours recognises more than 50 years of contribution to football, sports leadership and community development.

Widely regarded as one of the most respected figures in non-league football, Jack has also held senior positions at the game's highest levels, including Vice Chairman of The FA and Chair of the National League Trust. His connection to Bognor Regis Town has also remained a constant throughout his career.

Jack - who is National League Vice President - began at Bognor Regis Town as a player before stepping into the player-manager role in 1976. In the decades since, he has played a key part in reshaping the club both on and off the pitch - improving facilities, opening up opportunities for players and volunteers, and keeping the club firmly rooted in its community.

Speaking after receiving the honorary degree, Jack described it as an unexpected honour. He said: It was a complete surprise and not something I was expecting.

“Receiving this kind of recognition is always very special because it makes you realise how fortunate you have been. There are many people doing wonderful things across our area, so to be recognised in this way is a real honour.”

Beyond his club and governance roles, Jack has long championed sport as a force for social good. His work with the Football Foundation has helped channel funding and opportunities to clubs, schools, local authorities and community groups, boosting participation in sport nationwide.

Looking back on his career, he reflected: “Being awarded an MBE in 2024 was a tremendous honour and a wonderful recognition of my efforts over many years. What has been most rewarding is helping to build and improve the club, both in terms of facilities and performances on the pitch. I have always tried to leave things better than I found them.”

Jack also spoke about his enduring ties to the University, built through Bognor Regis Town's long-standing relationship with the institution from players who have studied there to support the club has received in fitness and sports science.

Offering advice to graduating students, Jack encouraged them to follow work they find fulfilling and to stay open to new paths.

He added: “I have been very lucky in life because I've never really felt like I've gone to work. My advice would be to find something you genuinely enjoy doing. If you enjoy your work, it never really feels like a job. Don't be afraid to change course if an opportunity presents itself.

“It is important not to get carried away when things are going well and not to become too despondent when things go badly. Football teaches you how to deal with both success and disappointment, and those lessons apply far beyond sport.”

Main image: Chichester University