Menin nominated for Women’s 15s Player of the Year

Exeter Chiefs Women’s tighthead prop DaLeaka Menin has been nominated for Women’s 15s Player of the Year in the World Rugby Awards for 2026.

Menin has been nominated alongside Red Roses duo Zoe Harrison and Meg Jones, plus the Black Ferns’ Kaipo Olsen-Baker.

World Rugby’s website started: “A cornerstone of Canada's forward pack, Menin has continued to impress with her physicality, powerful scrummaging and tireless work around the field. The experienced tight-head prop has been a key figure in Canada's front row, providing a strong platform for her team's performances against the world's leading nations.”

Menin was particularly impressive against the Red Roses in this year’s WXV Global Series. She played all three tests against England, earning Player of the Match awards for the first two and scoring three tries along the way.

The 31-year-old from Vulcan, Alberta, is one of three rugby-playing sisters who all ran out for the Calgary Hornets. Menin moved to the UK to play for Loughborough Lightning before starting her Chiefs career against Bristol Bears in September 2021. She has played 77 games for the club, with several outings at No 8, and scored 16 tries.

The winner of this award will be revealed this weekend as the WXV tournament reaches its conclusion.

World Rugby chair Brett Robinson said: “The quality of this year's nominees is a testament to the incredible talent, dedication and ambition driving women's rugby forward. From established international stars to exciting emerging players, each has made an outstanding contribution to the game in 2026.

“As women's rugby continues to grow and reach new audiences around the world, it is important that we recognise the players whose performances inspire fans and the next generation. I congratulate all our nominees on their achievements and look forward to celebrating the very best of our sport through this year's awards.”