SLC’s Chairman, Richard Leman, has been awarded Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the Queen’s 2018 Birthday Honours List. Richard received the honour for “Services to Hockey” due to the incredible service he has given to hockey in Great Britain at a local, national and international level.
Richard is a two-time Olympic medallist. Richard was part of the team that won gold at the 1988 Seoul Olympics, which was the nation’s first in the sport at that level since 1948. Four years previously, he had won a bronze at the previous Olympic Games. By the time of his retirement, he had amassed 228 International Caps – at the time the most capped England and Great Britain player.
Richard has served as President of Great Britain Hockey for 10 years including through the period in which London hosted the 2012 Olympic Games. During his tenure Great Britain achieved their first Olympic medals in 20 years and the first ever women’s Olympic gold at Rio 2016. He also represented hockey at the National Olympic Committee, becoming a Board Member of the British Olympic Association, again serving that role for 10 years. Richard remains actively involved with East Grinstead Hockey Club as a trustee.
Managing Director, Duncan Wood-Allum, has said of this recognition, “Richard has had a lasting impact on the sport, firstly as one of England’s greatest players, a volunteer, community leader and former chairman of Great Britain Hockey. His work locally at East Grinstead Sports Club demonstrates his passion for and commitment to improving grass roots and sports development. We’re delighted for him and the hockey family he has worked tirelessly with for all these years.”
Congratulations Richard from the whole team at SLC.