Bermuda's footballing circles - particularly North Village - were celebrating last night with the announcement that Shaun Goater and David Bascome had been made MBEs (Members of the Order of the British Empire.

The professional pair scored their biggest off-field achievements in the Queen's annual birthday honours list - the only two Bermudians to cop the prestigious award this year.

They, along with football coach and administrator Kenny Thompson who was awarded a Queen's Certificate, were nominated locally for their service to the Island through the sport. All three are former national players who continue to be involved in football development. Goater and Bascome came through Village's ranks and Thompson has been the architect of Village's development programmes.

Bascome, who is in Bermuda preparing to host the 12th annual Pro Soccer Clinic, was elated by the news.

"It's great. It hasn't really hit me yet. To receive an award for what you're doing with young kids and for your community is more than money. It means more than receiving a cheque.

"It's an opportunity for us to keep moving forward. These acknowledgements help you to keep pushing on because the final goal, obviously, is to keep making these kids successful, doing what you can to help."

A midfielder for Harrisburg Heat in the USA's Major Indoor Soocer League (MISL), Bascome turned pro at 20, signing for that team and remaining with them for the past decade. During that time he has earned MVP and All-Star honours on many occasions.

Along with Goater, he is credited with founding the Pro Soccer Clinic held here each summer for junior footballers. In addition, his soccer academy - the Bascome Pro Soccer School - is one of the premier soccer training facilities in the northeastern USA.

The 33-year-old knew about his honour for some time but was forced to keep it to himself.

"I was in Harrisburg in my office when I found out about it. When I got off the phone it struck me `Oh man, this is pretty big'. I wanted to call around but I couldn't say anything about it. I wanted to talk to somebody about it.

"I was shocked, surprised and I just sat in my office for about two hours, smiling and thinking about it. I don't expect anything for the things I am doing. I just want young people to be successful and try my hardest to save one. If I can save more, that's great."

What made it all the more tempting "to spill the beans" was that around the time Bascome was informed of the MBE accolade, his dad - veteran chef Herbie Bascome - was making plans to fly to England to receive the MBE which he was awarded in the New Year honours list. He is now there and knows nothing of his son's award.

"I got to tell him before he gets back if not he'll be after me," chuckled Bascome, adding that his father will be "very proud".

Goater, who is vacationing in Florida, USA, conveyed his reaction via his agent Mark Georgovich with whom he spoke early yesterday.

"It's an absolute honour and a privilege. I've picked up so many awards and there have been so many great achievements, especially like leading Bermuda out at the Commonwealth Games last year and the goals I've scored against Manchester United, but this is something else," said the 33-year-old affectionately known as "The Goat".

Georgovich - the Bermudian's agent for the past ten years - added that the Manchester City striker was "lost for words" when informed of the honour. Georgovich termed the recognition "richly deserved", noting Goater has always had Bermuda dear to his heart and, though he has sought fame and fortune abroad, has always desired to give something back.

"He has had tremendous adulation from the fans at Maine Road but he really does a great deal to help promote Bermuda. He has always tried to remember where he came from and all the Bermudians who helped him," said Georgovich.

Goater, who last season scored his 100th goal for City, has plied his football trade in England since 1989, when signed by Manchester United as a junior. On a free transfer, he moved to Rotherham United, then to Bristol City. In 1998, he was signed by the blue side of Manchester and was their top scorer four seasons in a row and played a key role in taking them back to top-flight football in 2002.

On February 9 this year he earned another illustrious accolade, scoring the fastest goal by a substitute in the FA Premiership. His first-touch header against Manchester United grabbed a valuable 1-1 draw for his team.

Last week, Goater hosted his inaugural Grassroots Soccer Festival in Bermuda, including two matches featuring Manchester City's Youth Team.

Thompson was "initially surprised" when he learnt of his inclusion among the honourees.

"You just don't expect these things (but) it's an honour for me to accept it. I don't know the criteria (for being chosen) but if it's anything to do with work in the community, and particularly with young people, then it feels good to be recognised for work done in that regard. It's very satisfying.

"I certainly don't go about my work looking for recognition. I do it because I love it," said the Director of Youth Development for the Bermuda Football Association (BFA).

Since hanging up his boots, the 38-year-old former Somerset Trojans, Somerset Eagles and North Village player has focused on coaching. He has travelled to England, France, Holland and the USA to further his knowledge and is now in charge of the BFA's youth programmes.

North Village president Shervin Dill lauded the accomplishments of all three awardees, saying his club were proud to be associated with them.

"North Village are especially proud of Shaun and David and take the opportunity to congratulate them on their MBE honours. Both are humble and professional gentlemen and have been perfect role models for the youngsters of Bermuda, having displayed a commitment to hard work and discipline and a determination to succeed no matter the odds against them," he said.

Dill saluted the duo for always giving something back to football and Bermudian youth through their annual soccer camp. This, he noted, has allowed others to share their knowledge, skills and experience.

The North Village leader also praised Thompson and highlighted his contribution to the Rams' development.

"Kenny has been instrumental in restructuring our programmes and we're enjoying the success of that today as we continue to develop our youth at the highest levels."