As an organization dedicated to promoting women in poker, we draw inspiration from the incredible accomplishments of women who have shattered barriers in traditionally male-dominated fields. While gender equality is ongoing, countless exceptional women fearlessly challenge stereotypes and embody the spirit of “Daring Greatly.” Today, we are thrilled to introduce you to Beya Tep, an extraordinary female athlete who exemplifies this spirit.

Beya is a member of the Las Vegas Raiders Wheelchair Football Team. Her journey in sports intersects with the poker industry through her stepfather, John G Gerhart, a respected industry veteran. John being immensely proud of Beya’s teancity reached out to Rebbecca Scales, a lead instructor at Poker Power, and is one of the outspoken host on The Real Poker Girls of Las Vegas. This podcast is known for its dedication to empowering women and addressing the unique challenges females face in male-dominated sports. Impressed by John’s recommendation, Rebbecca eagerly accepted the invitation to watch Beya play a game in Downtown Las Vegas.

“The intensity of the competition captivated me. I was most surprised by the aggressive tackles in wheelchairs and the determination displayed on the hot concrete ground. I had assumed that Beya would be playing on an all-female team, so when I discovered it was a co-ed team, and she was one of only two women on the team, I felt an immediate connection.” – Rebbecca Scales.

Beya joined the Las Vegas team in May 2023 and diligently practiced weekly to improve her skills. When asked about her motivation to play football, she replied, “I am passionate about the sport and enjoy the competitive nature of it. Staying active brings me immense happiness, and being part of the team has helped me grow as a player and witness our collective progress.”

When questioned about her experience as one of the few women on a predominantly male team, she candidly shared her initial apprehension. As a newcomer to the sport and a minority, she admitted feeling intimidated. However, she quickly expressed her admiration for the male members of her team, emphasizing their warm reception and unwavering support from the very first day she joined them for practice. Beya also held her coach in high esteem, acknowledging his instrumental role in shaping her perspective on being part of the team. She credited him for fostering an environment encouraging her growth as a player and teammate.

Beya’s aspirations go beyond breaking barriers; she wants to use her platform to raise awareness about the importance of inclusion and the transformative power of adaptation. By sharing her story and showcasing the effectiveness of adaptive measures, she hopes to enhance the quality of life for individuals with disabilities and broaden the perspectives of others.

Miss Tep firmly believes everyone should have equal opportunities to participate in adaptive sports and live fulfilling lives. She emphasizes the significance of personalized equipment, as it dramatically enhances an athlete’s comfort and overall performance. Recognizing that equipment can be a barrier to entry, she has shared valuable information about available resources for individuals with disabilities who wish to participate in adaptive sports.

Highlighting organizations such as Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF) and the Kelly Brush Foundation, which offer grants to qualifying athletes, enabling them to purchase adaptive equipment tailored to their needs. Additionally, Beya mentions Driven Neurorecovery, an exceptional adaptive gym that provides specialized training and open gym sessions for individuals recovering from spinal cord injuries and traumatic brain injuries. This facility offers a supportive community and a range of resources to aid recovery and rehabilitation.

Beya’s personal experience of finding community as a disabled person has been life-changing for her, and she encourages anyone seeking support to explore these resources. Her advocacy for inclusivity is a powerful reminder that everyone deserves equal opportunities and the chance to thrive, regardless of gender or abilities.