MARK Robins admitted it was a ‘humbling experience’ after he received an Honorary Doctorate from Coventry University.
The former Coventry City manager returned to the city to receive the award in a ceremony at Coventry Cathedral.
Coventry sacked Robins earlier this month following the club’s disappointing start to the season.
The Honorary Doctorate recognises Robins’ impact on the club and the city after he secured promotion from League Two and then won the League One title.
He took the club to within a penalty kick of promotion to the Premier League following an agonising defeat in the Championship play-off final in 2022/23.
Robins also lifted the EFL Trophy with Coventry in 2017 and guided the club to a first FA Cup semi-final since 1987 during his near eight-year tenure in charge of the Sky Blues.
He is now an Honorary Doctor of Administration.
Robins said: “It was an incredible honour – a really humbling experience for me. Sometimes things come out of left field and this was one of those but it was a really pleasant experience.
“I couldn’t be happier – a brilliant, brilliant day.”
Coventry University’s vice-chancellor, Professor John Latham CBE, said: “Mark Robins has played a crucial role in helping Coventry City come out of a dark few years and helped restore pride and belief among the fan base.
“His outstanding leadership and dedication to Coventry stretches further than just on the football pitch and we are proud to bestow this honour upon him for his contribution both on and off the field over the past near decade.
“It is said that all good things come to an end but it is right that we acknowledge the enormous and positive impact Mark has made here in Coventry.”
England cricketer Moeen Ali has also received an Honorary Doctorate from the university for his outstanding contribution to the sport. Moeen is now an Honorary Doctor of Arts.
The all-rounder won the Cricket World Cup with England in 2019 and the T20 World Cup in 2022. He has also captained his country in a number of T20 internationals.
Moeen said: “It’s been an amazing day. I’ve really, really thoroughly enjoyed it with my wife and parents. It’s an amazing honour and the icing on the cake of a long career.”
Professor Latham added: “Moeen’s career has taken him to the very top of the game, including having the honour of leading his country on to the field as captain.
“Those moments are experienced by just a select few and Moeen’s dedication and commitment makes him more than a worthy recipient.
“And it is for those reasons that Coventry University has welcomed Moeen to become an Honorary Doctor of Arts and we could not be prouder for him to join the university family.”
Moeen began his career with Warwickshire before later returning to the county following a 15-year spell with Worcestershire.
He currently skippers Birmingham Phoenix in The Hundred format of the game.
Moeen made his England debut in 2014 and has represented his country in all formats of the game.
He was made an OBE in 2022 for his services to cricket.
