An Oxfordshire rugby coach has been shortlisted for a national coaching award.
Darren Rea, youth chair and coach at Gosford All Blacks RFC, is a finalist in the UK Coaching Inclusive Coach of the Year Award, sponsored by Inclusive Employers.
The award recognises coaches who have championed inclusion and accessibility in sport and physical activity.
Mr Rea said: "I’m humbled, surprised and at a loss.
"I’m extremely proud of what we have achieved as a collective through Oxfordshire."
Partially sighted himself, Mr Rea began coaching when his eldest son started playing rugby at age four.
During his time on the pitch, he noticed a lack of opportunities for children with additional needs.
In response, he launched a SEND rugby programme in 2023.
He said: "I truly believe that giving anyone the opportunity to feel their value and support them to grow can never be underestimated.
"I love rugby as a sport, but I also love the underlying principles from teamwork, respect, enjoyment, discipline and sportsmanship."
Now serving as co-chair of inclusion, diversity, and equality at Oxfordshire RFU, Mr Rea continues to seek out collaborative opportunities.
Under his leadership, the SEND rugby programme has expanded to five clubs, a county SEND team, and a county rugby festival—Katiefest.
More than 100 children now participate each week.
The UK Coaching Awards are regarded as the most prestigious event in the coaching community, honouring those who contribute to a healthier and happier society through coaching.
Mark Gannon, chief executive of UK Coaching, said: "We are excited to announce the finalists of the 2025 UK Coaching Awards.
"Each year, we recognise some truly remarkable coaches from across the UK at every level, and it is always a challenge to select our finalists from an incredible group of nominations."
The awards ceremony will take place on December 4 at The Queens Hotel in Leeds.
For more information about this year’s finalists, visit the UK Coaching Awards website.
Mr Rea's work has not only created new opportunities for children with SEND but has also helped foster a more inclusive rugby community across Oxfordshire.
His nomination highlights the growing recognition of inclusive coaching and its impact on individuals and the wider community.
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