Inclusivity in youth rugby: Darren Rea is honoured at UK Coaching Awards

Last week at the UK Coaching Awards in Leeds, our colleague, Darren Rea was recognised for his inspirational work coaching young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

Darren was named winner in the Inclusive Coaching category which honours a coach, project/programme or intervention that uses great coaching to encourage more people from diverse backgrounds to get, and stay, active.

How it all began
Darren has been a Rugby Youth Coach at Kidlington’s Gosford All Blacks RFC for seven years, and around two years ago decided to branch out to offer tailored coaching for SEND children in the community. This initiative had one clear goal: instil confidence, joy and belonging in young children – through sport. And what started as a local initiative in Kidlington has now spread to four more clubs across Oxfordshire.

Darren has also been integral in the introduction of Katie Fest, a county-wide sports festival that honours Wallingford RFC player, Katie Peel, who sadly passed away in February, 2024. During his acceptance speech at the UK Coaching Awards, Darren asked the audience to join him in performing the haka he and the team often do in Katie’s memory.

Building a legacy
Commenting on the work he does, Darren said:

“I feel honoured to be recognised by UK Coaching. We’ve created spaces where children feel safe, accepted and proud of who they are. It’s all about how we make the children feel when they are with us – confident, respected, connected and celebrated. We’re building a legacy that goes far beyond playing sport.”

Mark Gannon, CEO of UK Coaching, praised Darren’s achievements:

“It is so important that we recognise and celebrate great coaching. It is also key we acknowledge the tireless commitment and amazing work coaches across the nation deliver to support participants in their own unique journeys. Darren is one of the nation’s top coaches who has helped to change so many lives through his dedication.”

Darren’s recognition at the UK Coaching Awards is richly deserved and we couldn’t be prouder to call him our friend and colleague.

As always, Intertronics remains committed to supporting our community and chosen charities and we wish all the coaches and players in youth rugby teams across Oxfordshire continued success.