Meet The Team

Ian Richards

Managing Director

In the vibrant world of basketball and sports education, few figures shine as brightly as Ian Richards. With an impressive career spanning over 35 years, Ian embodies a dedication and expertise that has profoundly shaped the lives of many, particularly through his work in both basketball and wheelchair basketball.

Early on, Ian made his mark by becoming the first coach to lead Notts Nova to their historic National U13 Passerell victory, a testament to his visionary leadership. His coaching journey took him through notable teams such as the Mansfield Giants, Sheffield Arrows, and Mansfield Express, where he consistently achieved remarkable wins and earned numerous accolades.

What truly sets Ian apart is his unwavering commitment to wheelchair basketball. He has been a driving force in nurturing exceptional talents who have represented their country on the global stage, including athletes who proudly clinched a bronze medal at the Athens Paralympics.

Beyond the court, Ian’s role as a Level 2 Tutor and Assessor for Basketball England and British Wheelchair Basketball has allowed him to mentor and inspire the next generation of stars. Ian’s influence transcends borders, reaching as far as Brazil, where he played a pivotal role in developing wheelchair basketball coaches in preparation for the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Perhaps one of his most remarkable achievements is the founding of Express Coaching Services Ltd.

As the Company Director, Ian has spearheaded transformative initiatives aimed at enhancing sports and physical education in primary and secondary schools across Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire. His company stands as a beacon of inspiration, advocating for wheelchair sports programs, promoting disability awareness, and celebrating the richness of diversity in sports. Ian Richards is not just a coach; he is a true champion for change in the world of athletics.

Dan Richards

Company Director – Head Of Coaching

From the courts to the classroom, Dan Richards’ inspiring journey in basketball beautifully embodies the essence of dedication, passion, and an unwavering love for the sport. He embarked on his basketball adventure at the tender age of 8, and his remarkable talent quickly caught the eye of coaches on the international stage. This recognition led to his selection for England’s U15 to U18 teams, as well as an invitation to the prestigious Nike Euro Camp in Treviso, Italy, in 1998—a gathering that featured basketball legends like Pau Gasol.

This experience would become the stepping stone for his full scholarship to North Idaho College the following year. After a successful career as a professional and semi-professional basketball player, where he secured numerous championships with teams in Mansfield and Sheffield, Dan faced the heartbreak of narrowly missing the opportunity to represent England in the 2004 Commonwealth Games. Yet, rather than succumbing to disappointment, he transformed setbacks into opportunities for growth.

Redirecting his boundless energy, Dan began working with young individuals, especially those with physical and learning disabilities, at West Notts College—a role that ignited a true passion within him.

Through his association with Express Coaching Services Ltd (ECS), Dan diversified his skill set, teaching various physical education modules in schools.

His coaching talents shone brightly when he led the Mansfield Giants U14 team to the Basketball England finals. Furthermore, he played an instrumental role in coaching England’s U15 boys and U17 girls squads, leaving an indelible mark on young athletes.

A devoted lifelong learner, Dan holds a Level 5 certificate in Primary School PE Specialism as well as an array of various sports coaching qualifications. Today, he dedicates his time and expertise entirely to ECS’s Disability Awareness and Inclusion program, working tirelessly to ensure that sports are accessible and enjoyable for students nationwide. His commitment is not just about coaching; it’s about creating a welcoming environment where every young athlete can thrive and discover the joy of sports.

Gail Richards

Company Director – Business & Finance

Gail brings an impressive depth of experience to her role at ECS, having dedicated 15 years to a National Governing Body before joining in June 2024. In her previous position as senior manager, she expertly led a team responsible for leagues, competitions, and events, all while championing the needs of the basketball community, including clubs, schools, and leagues. Outside her professional commitments, Gail has passionately devoted her time to the Mansfield Giants Basketball Club, a proud partner of ECS.

Her efforts have been instrumental in the club’s remarkable growth and success.

Gail’s basketball journey began with the Giants, where she played a pivotal role in establishing the first women’s basketball team in the Mansfield area. Before this, she honed her skills at the renowned Sheffield Hatters Basketball Club, starting at the tender age of 12 and progressing through the ranks. Her dedication to the sport continued at Sheffield Hallam University, where she pursued her degree while actively playing basketball.

Coaching has also been a significant passion for Gail. She has contributed her expertise in schools and with junior basketball teams in Mansfield, promoting not only basketball but a wide array of sports.

A fierce advocate for breaking down barriers to participation, Gail is dedicated to creating opportunities for women in sports. In her role at Express Coaching Services, she enthusiastically ensures inclusive sports programs are accessible to all. Beyond this, she skillfully manages the organisation’s daily operations, overseeing HAF provisions, and attending to all aspects of business and finance. Her extensive experience since graduating has been an invaluable asset, propelling her success at ECS and making a lasting impact in the community.

Gary Collins

Sport Coach

Gary has been employed with Express Coaching for the last 12 years and has had a passion for sports since he was in primary school. Throughout his educational journey in school, college, and adulthood, Gary has remained active in sports, dedicating his time to playing and coaching Basketball. His top three accomplishments in the sport include winning the National Basketball League (NBL) Division 4, winning the National Basketball League (NBL) Division 2, and most recently earning a spot on the Great Britain 40+ Masters team for the World MaxiBasketball Championships in Argentina.

Gary finds great joy in his role as a sports coach and takes pride in sharing his extensive knowledge and experience with young individuals, which he finds to be a deeply rewarding occupation. He enjoys designing and organizing various activities that deviate from traditional sports, aiming to engage those who might not be as interested in sports as others. This includes focusing on physical literacy and activities inspired by video games, movies, or cartoons something relatable for young people that encourages them to stay active without them necessarily realising it. If you haven’t attended one of his sports days, be sure to check our social media platforms since they are always arranged in this manner and consistently receive positive feedback from both young participants and their parents.

In addition to his lifelong involvement in sports, Gary has also been coaching since a young age while attending college; in fact, he has been coaching for a total of 25 years, which is a significant accomplishment as he has played a crucial role in educating youth in physical education and sports activities. He began his coaching journey with basketball while studying in college, where he achieved an A-level in PE, a First Diploma in Sports (Basketball), a BTEC National Diploma in Sports Science, and an HND in Sports Science and Coaching. Over the years, Gary has obtained several sport-specific qualifications, including Basketball Level 2 Coach, Wheelchair Basketball Level 2 Coach, F.A. Football Level 1 Coach, Volleyball Level 1 Coach, Sports Leaders Award, Higher Sports Leaders Award, Handball Leaders Award, and Pop-Lacrosse Leaders Awards. In addition to these accolades, Gary has played a key role in the Mansfield Giants basketball club, coaching various junior age groups, and is currently the head coach of the Girls Development squad for U12 girls.

Beyond his professional sports involvement, Gary enjoys video games, TV shows and movies, cosplaying, DIY projects, and drawing.

Jack Wells

Sport Coach

Jack began his journey at Express Coaching Services Ltd four years ago after completing his further education. He has effectively utilized the knowledge gained from his Level 2 and 3 Sports Coaching qualifications from college, as well as his Foundation Degree and Degree in Sports Coaching from university. During his time at ECS, Jack also earned a Level 2 Coaching qualification in basketball and a Level 1 Coaching qualification in wheelchair basketball.

Having been a keen runner until the age of 10, Jack transitioned to football, a sport he has passionately played ever since. He enjoys the fun, dynamic nature of his role, relishing the opportunity to engage in lighthearted interactions with his peers while staying active. One of Jack’s standout strengths at ECS is his creativity, which enables him to devise lessons that are not only enjoyable but also memorable.

Each day presents new challenges, a variety that Jack appreciates in his essential role at ECS. He primarily coaches in primary schools, aiming to provide children with positive and enjoyable experiences in sports and activities that encourage continued participation in the future. A key objective of his sessions is to involve as many children as possible in sports, not only during his curriculum sessions but also by guiding them toward local sports clubs. Additionally, as a coach for the Mansfield Giants Under 12 program, Jack recognizes the importance of this transition, which influences how he tailors his after-school clubs.

Working in schools and the realm of sports can be unpredictable, with many variables at play. Therefore, the ability to think on his feet and adapt plans as necessary is crucial to Jack’s success.

Ashante Richards

Sport Coach

Sports and exercise have played a vital role in Ashante’s life from an early age. She has embraced a diverse range of activities, including dance, athletics, netball, and basketball. Ashante excelled in basketball, competing from the age of nine and representing teams such as the Mansfield Giants and the Sheffield Hatters. She attended Charnwood College’s basketball academy while playing for the Leicester Riders until she turned 18. During this time, she successfully balanced her A-level studies with her commitments as a student-athlete, earning recognition as a Sports Aid Athlete. Her passion and dedication enabled her to represent her regions, including East Midlands and Yorkshire, as well as competing at national levels for England and Great Britain.

Currently, Ashante is pursuing her university studies in education while continuing to play basketball for her university team and the Derbyshire Arrows. She has redirected her energy toward coaching girls’ basketball, initiating the development program for girls at Mansfield Giants, and coaching the under-14 team. In doing so, she aims to give back to the sport that has significantly shaped her life, becoming an exemplary role model and ambassador not only for her club but also for women’s sports as a whole.

In addition to her coaching, Ashante works part-time as a sports coach for ECS. In this role, she conducts various sports during curriculum time, facilitates after-school clubs, helps organize sports days, and teaches yoga, dance, and gymnastics to children. She has also contributed to the development of Rainbow Rush, an innovative approach to exercise that incorporates color to make physical activity enjoyable and engaging. Ashante takes great pleasure in working with young people, inspiring them to remain active while facilitating a diverse range of sports and activities to help them reach their goals.

Seb Williams

Sport Coach

Seb confidently embarked on his coaching career with Express Coaching Services Ltd after completing his studies at Loughborough College. With a deep passion for basketball that he lives and breathes daily, Seb has more than earned his stripes. He played for the Mansfield Giants from the Under-14 level through to senior men’s teams and enhanced his expertise by becoming a qualified Level 2 basketball coach and referee. Currently, he leads the Under-14 team in Mansfield while further solidifying his coaching prowess through his active role in Aspire East Midlands skills sessions and regional teams, integral parts of the Basketball England talent pathway.

Seb mastered his coaching abilities at ECS, starting as an apprentice through the government’s ‘kickback scheme.’ His development has positioned him as a respected coach among the schools he partners with, where he consistently delivers dynamic and engaging lessons tailored for all ages.

Beyond his coaching responsibilities at ECS, Seb plays in various local leagues and effectively manages his own team. An active lifestyle is at the core of who he is, and he thrives on both the playing and coaching dimensions of basketball. This commitment has established him as a role model for young people, whether in school sessions or within club settings.

Lee Brookes

Sport Coach

Since 2016, Lee has been an indispensable asset to ECS as a Sports Coach, establishing himself as an outstanding coach in the field. He kickstarted his coaching career at West Notts College, where he earned a prestigious Triple Merit qualification in Sport Development, Coaching, and Fitness. Building on this foundation, he pursued a Foundation Degree in Sports Coaching and Development. During his college years, Lee honed his skills and deepened his knowledge through the Sports Champions program, which is dedicated to enhancing competitive sports within the college. It was here that he discovered his true passion for coaching basketball and supporting the college’s various sporting events.

Lee began at ECS as a temporary casual worker and quickly progressed to a full-time role, where he now excels in delivering PE, sports, and activities in primary schools. He is highly respected among staff and students for his vast knowledge, strong understanding of the school ethos, tailored delivery methods, and effective behaviour management strategies.

In addition to his educational background, Lee has achieved a robust array of sports coaching qualifications, including Level 1 and 2 certifications as a Basketball Coach, a Level 1 certification as a Wheelchair Basketball Coach, the Wheelchair Cricket Leaders Award, and a Level 2 in Sports Leaders Awards. He also contributed to the Mansfield Leadership and Volunteering Academy.

Outside of his coaching duties, Lee passionately engages with basketball in the evenings, competing in local leagues and coaching the Mansfield Giants U16/U18 teams, further solidifying his commitment to the sport and the development of young athletes.