Richard Leman: The Golden Hockey Legend

A Shining Star in British Field Hockey

Richard Leman is a name synonymous with excellence in British field hockey. As a former player, he etched his name in the history books by winning a gold medal with the Great Britain squad at the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul, following a bronze medal win at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.

Awards and Accolades

Leman's impressive career was punctuated with numerous awards and accolades. In 1984, he was crowned the UK Hockey Player of the Year, a testament to his exceptional skills on the field. He also won silver with the England squad at the 1986 Hockey World Cup in London.

Leadership and Administration

Leman's leadership skills were evident even during his playing days, as he captained Great Britain and England from 1988 to 1990. After retiring from the sport, he continued to contribute to the hockey community by joining the Board of England Hockey in 2002, serving as a vice president for a year. He later became President of Great Britain Hockey in 2007, a position he held until 2017. During his tenure, the women's team won the Olympic Gold medal at Rio in 2016.

Business Ventures and Philanthropy

Leman's entrepreneurial spirit led him to found several businesses in the recruitment sector. His first company, Olympian Consultancy, was listed as 8th in the Sunday Times Fast Track 100 companies for 1999. He also won the Durlacher Executive of the Year Award and was runner-up in the Sussex Businessman of the Year Award in the same year. Currently, he serves as Chairman of Gold Group Recruitment, a technology and engineering recruitment company. Leman is also committed to philanthropy, having set up the East Grinstead Sports Club Charity in 2003 and serving as chairman of the board until 2010. He remains an active Trustee of the club.

Early Life and Education

Born on July 13, 1959, in East Grinstead, West Sussex, Leman was educated at Greshams School, Holt, between 1973 and 1977. During his school days, he played in the school's 1st XI hockey team and captained the 1st XI cricket team. He also had England Schoolboy trials for both sports.

Clubs and Associations

Throughout his playing career, Leman played for East Grinstead Hockey Club. He has also been involved in the running of East Grinstead Sports Club since 1988.

Legacy and Impact

Richard Leman's contributions to British field hockey are immeasurable. His dedication, leadership, and entrepreneurial spirit have inspired a generation of hockey players. His legacy continues to shape the sport, and his philanthropic efforts have made a positive impact on the community.

• Career Highlights:
  • Gold medal at the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul
  • Bronze medal at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles
  • Silver at the 1986 Hockey World Cup in London
• Awards and Accolades:
  • UK Hockey Player of the Year (1984)
  • Durlacher Executive of the Year Award (1999)
  • Runner-up in the Sussex Businessman of the Year Award (1999)