wWomen remain under-represented in sports coaching, but a growing number of trailblazers are determined to change that. From Olympic mentors to grassroots leaders, female coaches across the UK are speaking up about the challenges they face and the opportunities that can inspire the next generation. Visibility, mentorship, tailored development programmes, and greater structural support are just some of the key drivers they believe will help women thrive in coaching roles.
Greater visibility
Lysa Jones, England Golf Regional Coach
“I am one of only a few female golf coaches and so to inspire and empower other women to follow their coaching goals will be a wholly rewarding experience and one I will relish.”
Development mentors
Coral Nourrice, Paralympic Talent Development Coordinator
“Mentorship, good role models and more development programmes are vital. Learning from experienced mentors and stepping outside comfort zones can aid female coaches.”
Female upskill programmes
Christine Bloomfield -Harrison, UK Athletics coach
“Exposure to diverse coaching scenarios and leadership styles is crucial. Programmes that provide such opportunities can help women develop their skills, confidence and lead to greater representation at higher levels.”
Passing on experience
Kate Howey, British Judo head coach
“I look forward to sharing my experiences with other female coaches within the UK sporting pathway, and passing on valuable lessons that I have learnt along the way to hopefully help them flourish on their own journeys.”
Supporting working mums
Natalie Doyle, Sport Sister founder
“Childcare is a huge challenge for many working mothers, and clubs will need to look at how they can support their staff in terms of childcare and the rising costs associated with this.”
Awareness
Mel Marshall, Team GB Swimming coach
“Bring women and what they’re doing to the forefront and people will follow.”
Standards & lowering costs
Emma Hayes, ex-Chelsea FC, now Team USA boss
“We need to come up with more creative ways to address it, including setting minimum standards for professional clubs around the hiring of female coaches, and more support to help women afford the cost of gaining the right qualifications.”
Increasing funding
Emma Hayes, ex-Chelsea FC, now Team USA boss
“It’s costs about £10,000 to do a Pro Licence. And the wages in the women’s game are insignificant compared to the men’s game. We have to look at the cost of it as a starting point. We have to commit more money to coaches, not just in the women’s game but women coaches in general.”
