Richard Mantell

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Richard Mantell (born on August 17, 1981 in Bridgwater, Somerset) is an English field hockey full back, who made his international senior debut for the national squad on February 10, 2003. He is nicknamed Rick or Ricky or Tricky, and played club hockey for Canterbury.

Currently Mantell is playing for Reading H.C.. He was a member of the English squad that finished fifth at the 2006 Men's Hockey World Cup in Mönchengladbach. His younger brother Simon was also on that side.

Allegedly Richard suffers from Acrophobia and Ornithophobia this means that he is unable to travel over bridges particulary those near the seaside or areas where there are high incidences of birdlife. Richard's forthcoming book titled "For as long as I can remember I’ve had an uncontrolable fear of birds and heights" promises hope and guidance for fellow sufferers, available soon from Amazon.

Clearly Richard loves field hockey and other niche sports but it is also evident that Mantell loves horses and is often seen at popular horse based shows and events. Last years highlight for Richard was the popular 'Spirit of the Horse' where he and his partner were treated to a back stage audience with the stars of the show, Clippy and Cloppy who romped into the dressage finale.

Richard's recent appearances on local television have highlighted his tendency to repeat himself, similar to an echo. Richard is mindful that in order to emulate one of his heroes David Beckham he will have to work on his verbal skills. He is now considering writing down what he is going to say as soon as he gets up each morning to aviod repitition.