Whether it’s true or not it can’t be denied that Mansfield and the surrounding area has produced some brilliant sports stars.
Our area can boast a 1966 World Cup winner, a double Olympic gold medalist, an FA Cup winner and perhaps the most infamous Ashes cricketer of all time.
And of course there’s two other very notable swimmers who have done themselves and the area more than proud – and plenty more who have put our area on the map.
Let us know who your favourite local sports star is and why via our social media channels.
You can keep up with the latest sports news across the area, here.
9. Charlotte Henshaw
Mansfield's Charlotte Henshaw won a silver medal at the London Paralympic games, followed by a bronze in Rio de Janeiro. But she finally bagged a gold at Tokyo 2020 after an amazing change to paracanoeing. Photo: Getty Images
10. Sam Hynd
Hynd achieved significant success in the 400m Freestyle, winning gold at the 2008 Summer Paralympics, the 2009 and 2011 IPC European Championships, and the 2009 IPC World Championships. Photo: Mike Ehrmann
11. Molly Renshaw
In 2016, she won the 200 metres breaststroke at the 2016 FINA World Swimming Championships (25m). Renshaw was part of the 2016 and 2020 Team GB Olympic squad. Photo: Quinn Rooney
12. James Perch
Mansfield's very own James Perch made it to the top of the game and played Premier League football with Newcastle United. He also made it to the FA Cup semi-finals with Wigan before returning to his hometown club. Photo: Getty Images