Donald Charles (Dick) Manley, 1932-2021
The RFU has paid tribute to former England and Exeter flanker Donald Charles (Dick) Manley who has died at the age of 89.
Said RFU President, Jeff Blackett: “Dick represented England and his beloved club Exeter at a time when it was all about passion for rugby and he epitomised that amateur spirit. He was greatly respected on and off the field and continued to be a great servant to the game who will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Our thoughts are especially with his wife Pamela, son David, daughter-in-law Laura, his grandchildren George and Sophia and all at Exeter Chiefs.”
Born in Exeter on February 17, 1932, Manley known to most as Dick, made his England debut, aged 30, in January 1963, beating Wales at Cardiff Arms Park and played in four Tests throughout the season, helping to win the Grand Slam and Triple Crown.
Dick made his debut for Exeter in the 1950-51 season going on to play a total of 400 times for the club until the 1966-67 season and captaining them in 1962-63. He played for the Barbarians 13 times, and the Royal Signals (Catterick) and for Devon, featuring in their County Championship winning side in 1956-57.
A pupil at Hele School, he played flanker and occasionally on the wing. A dynamic, speedy player with great handling skills, he was also prodigious in defence. As an accomplished cabinet maker, his business precluded long periods away on international tours.
Dick and Pamela’s son, David, coached in the Exeter Colts set-up, as well as playing an active role with the Exeter Wheelers Cycling Club.
