NEW YORK – Less than 24 hours after featuring for AC Milan in a UEFA Champions League match against Ajax on Wednesday, 34-year-old midfielder Clarence Seedorf was here on Thursday night to be honored for his professional and philanthropic accomplishments.

Seedorf was recognized with the Sportsman of the Year award at the 43rd annual Modell Memorial Dinner in midtown Manhattan for his work with his Champions for Children Foundation. Soccer was a major theme at the dinner with MLS Commissioner Don Garber receiving the Dick Schaap Excellence in Sports Award.

The Dutchman’s humanitarian efforts have resulted in the construction of schools, a creative center and a sports facility in Brazil.

“Educating through sport is something that a lot of other foundations and institutions are working with because it’s very strong and powerful to make a difference in the lives of kids,” Seedorf told MLSsoccer.com. “Being the first international personality to receive the award is really, really special and fills me with more commitment on my part to give back.”

Seedorf spoke to MLSsoccer.com on projects he is discussing with current MLS club owners, the prospects that he play in MLS, the speculation surrounding Ronaldinho’s potential move to MLS and the future of Oguchi Onyewu, with whom Seedorf works through his Italian-based company ON International.

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Seedorf is back in action for first-place AC Milan on Sunday in a Serie A league match at Bologna.

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