Kevin Ball, who was involved with Sunderland AFC for more than 30 years as player, coach and caretaker manager, has received the Freedom of the City.
Freedoms are awarded by Sunderland City Council to citizens who make "significant contributions to the wellbeing and community spirit of Sunderland".
Cabinet member Kevin Johnson said "Bally", as he is known, had been "a determined force both on and off the pitch", and had "the admiration and love of all who knew him".
At a ceremony at Sunderland's City Hall, Mr Ball said he was "truly honoured, very grateful and humbled".