Leanne Furley was given the Overcoming Adversity Award at Cwmbran Community Council’s Community Awards held on Friday 6 March in the Parkway Hotel.
This was read out as she collected her award.
“Tonight, we recognise someone whose journey shows the true meaning of overcoming adversity.
“After becoming a wheelchair user several years ago, this recipient set out to rebuild confidence and reconnect with sport. Last August, she joined Dragons Wheelchair Rugby and quickly discovered not just a team, but a community.
“Since then, she has embraced every opportunity to get involved, volunteering at match days and community events, supporting initiatives like Sporting Memories, assisting with junior wheelchair rugby coaching, and coaching Inclusive Touch Rugby with Dragons AllStars. She has also recently qualified as a WRU Tag Rugby coach.
“Her determination and positive attitude demonstrate the powerful impact that sport and community can have. Through her work as a Dragons Inclusion Ambassador, she continues to inspire others and help more people discover the opportunities that inclusive sport can provide.