Last Weekend saw Richard Mantell hang up his Men 1s hockey stick, although this huge stalwart of the club, did decide to end his career on a high by winning the EH Cup .

Richard has been a member of the Mens 1s since he joined the club 15 years ago and he has inspired many players within the team and the club.
Judging by the number of comments on the RHC facebook and twitter accounts he has also inspired many players and officials in the Hockey family.

He was part of the teams that won European gold in 2009 and bronze in 2011, represented England at two World Cups and the 2010 Commonwealth Games as well as appearing for Great Britain at the 2008 Olympics. He made his international debut in February 2003 at the age of 21 and went on to win 165 outdoor caps for England and Great Britain, scoring 68 goals.

No-one can disguise a slider pass as Rich can, and his drag flicks at short corners have put the fear of god into many a GK and defence line !!

His passion and commitment to the club has been incredible and will he will be missed by many player and spectator. Although it seems the Rustlers and Redsocks are now fighting over who you are going to play for now !!

Speaking after the victory, Richard said: “It was great to finish my final season with a win in the cup yesterday. Some of the players in our squad weren’t born when I started playing club hockey in 1999 and I’ve been fortunate enough to be part of many successful Reading teams over the years.

“The squad is in great shape at the moment with a lot of talented players pushing for 1st team hockey with an experienced management team so I look forward to following many more successful seasons at Reading from the side lines.”

Thank you Rich for all you have done, we hope to see you on the sidelines, but enjoy your retirement.
#RealDing
#Proud