Thanks to the Mann...

The USAFL would like to extend its thanks and undying gratitude toward Richard Mann, USAFL President of 7 years (1999-2001 & 2007-2011).  Rich's vision, dedication and leadership have led to significant growth and development across the league.  This year's Nationals in Austin was the largest to date and remains the largest Australian Football tournament in the world.

Rich moved to the USA in 1995 and in 1996 was a founding member of the Cincinnati Dockers Football Club and the United States Australian Football Association (USAFA), which was later renamed to the current day United States Australian Fooball League (USAFL). He has been a USAFL Committee Member since 1997 taking on various roles.  Rich served as the Australian Liaison 2001-2005 and was a member of the AFL International Committee 2001- 2004, which included being a part of the organizing committee for the inaugural International Cup held in Melbourne in 2002.

During the 2011 International Cup, Rich, along with Paul 'Plugger' O'keeffe, was awarded with an International Merit Award by the Australian Football League (AFL). An AFL Merit Award is a most prestigious honour awarded to individuals for their significant contribution to the development of Australian Football, either in a paid or voluntary role. Candidates are selected soley by the AFL and the honour list dates back to 1931.

Rich has also played a significant role in nearly every USAFL National Tournament, assisting or directing 10 of the 15 past events. Rich will continue on in the role of National Tournament Director with the USAFL in 2012.

Rich has been playing footy for more than three decades, playing in excess of 500 games and winning eleven Premierships. He has served on numerous football club and league committees and is an accredited umpire, coach and the USA Revolution’s official team runner.