18/05/2026
Congratulations to Ian!
This write up sums up all the hard work and dedication Ian has brought to schools sport, basketball and ECS!
Great read! 👇
celebrating Ian Richards – A Lifetime of Service to Basketball
Ian Richards has been recognised with a Basketball England Services to Basketball Award, acknowledging more than 30 years of exceptional, selfless, and dedicated service to the sport he loves.
Ian has been a hugely influential and respected figure not only in Mansfield, but across Nottinghamshire and the wider East Midlands, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to shape basketball and inspire future generations.
Ian’s basketball journey began during his army days, where he discovered the sport while playing for Woking Blackhawks. Returning home to Mansfield, he committed himself to developing basketball in his local community and quickly became known simply as “Coach” — a title that reflects the respect and admiration he has earned over decades of service.
During the 1990s, Ian played an integral role in Mansfield Express, before later establishing the North Midlands School of Basketball and eventually Mansfield Giants Basketball Club. Through his leadership and vision, Mansfield Giants has grown into a thriving club competing locally and nationally, engaging hundreds of young people and providing high-quality opportunities for players to develop both on and off the court.
Ian’s contribution to basketball extends far beyond coaching. As a Basketball Development Officer for Nottinghamshire, he played a major role in increasing participation, strengthening grassroots provision, and creating pathways for young people to access the sport. Recognising the importance of volunteers and workforce development, Ian also became a tutor and mentor for coaches and referees, helping develop the people who continue to sustain and grow the game today.
A passionate advocate for inclusion, Ian has contributed significantly to both running basketball and wheelchair basketball, ensuring opportunities exist for all participants regardless of ability or background. His knowledge, experience, and willingness to support others have positively influenced basketball delivery in clubs, schools, and educational settings across the region.
Ian later founded Express Coaching Services, which has grown into a nationally recognised organisation supporting basketball development across the country. Through this work, Ian has helped nurture players from grassroots through to national team level, while mentoring and educating hundreds of coaches and officials who continue to make a difference in the game.
Much of Ian’s incredible contribution has been delivered voluntarily, dedicating countless evenings, weekends, and years of service to basketball. Even while managing ill health, Ian remains an integral part of Mansfield Giants, supporting the U12 programme, mentoring coaches, attending training sessions, and continuing his role as Game Day Delegate, helping ensure standards are maintained and fixtures run smoothly.
Ian Richards’ service to basketball is difficult to truly quantify. He has coached thousands of players, tutored hundreds of coaches and referees, contributed tens of thousands of voluntary hours, and played a pivotal role in developing not just a club, but basketball across a county and region.
For his lifelong dedication, leadership, passion, and unwavering commitment to the game, this recognition is richly deserved.
Thank you for everything you have done, Ian — from everyone at Mansfield Giants Basketball Club. Your impact on the game and the people within it will never be forgotten. 🏀👏
