Beena Chadha Wins the Inclusion Award at the British Asian Rugby Association Awards
Wooden Spoon proudly celebrates Beena Chadha’s remarkable contributions to women’s rugby as she receives the Inclusion Award, honouring her dedication to inclusivity in the sport. This award comes on the heels of her first national cap with the British & Irish National Wooden Spoon Women’s squad, highlighting her dual role as a leader on and off the field
Beena Chadha’s journey into rugby has been a story of resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to inclusivity. Since first picking up a rugby ball in 2015, Chadha has grown into an influential figure in women’s rugby, tirelessly working to create welcoming spaces in the sport for women from all walks of life. Her recent Inclusion Award celebrates her transformative impact, both in clubs and with Wooden Spoon, where she plays a significant role in championing diversity.
Chadha’s rugby story began with the Harlequin Ladies, where she quickly advanced to become club secretary and coach, guiding younger players and reinvigorating the women’s section. Her passion extended to the Metropolitan Police Service in 2020, where she led efforts to establish a thriving women’s rugby team. Her initiatives with the police rugby team have allowed more women to take part in the sport, and the team now competes in major events like the Matt Ratana Memorial Matches and the World Police and Fire Games.
Her commitment has reached across both rugby union and rugby league. Recently, Chadha joined the British & Irish National Wooden Spoon Women’s squad, proudly earning her first cap in January 2024. She also vice-captains and manages a Wooden Spoon Vets Team, where she was honoured as the “Most Capped Vet” at this year’s End of Season celebrations. Her leadership with Wooden Spoon exemplifies her dedication to fostering teamwork and building a supportive community for women in rugby.
Chadha’s journey demonstrates the power of sport to unite and empower. Her efforts with Wooden Spoon and beyond have opened doors for countless women to discover rugby, emphasising the values of diversity, camaraderie, and strength. As she continues to make strides on and off the field, Wooden Spoon is proud to honour her as an ambassador for inclusivity in rugby.