Benin Teen Rugby Player Kadidjath Ouedraogo Challenges Gender Norms

Pursuing Rugby Dreams in Benin

• 🎯 15-year-old Kadidjath Ouedraogo dreams of representing Benin on the global rugby stage.
• 🏉 Rugby, traditionally viewed as a male-dominated sport in West Africa, is gaining traction among young women.

Challenging Gender Norms

• ⚡ Kadidjath prefers playing with boys, feeling more comfortable and aiming to demonstrate her abilities are equal.
• 💡 Her coach describes her as fearless on the field, despite being shy off it.

Family Support and Future Aspirations

• 🏅 Kadidjath's home features medals, and she aspires to play for the national team and professionally abroad.
• 👨‍👧‍👦 Her father initially had concerns but now sees her as calmer, more disciplined, and able to balance school, chores, and sport.