This year’s International Women’s Day theme, Give to Gain, resonates deeply with me. Giving my time as a volunteer coach has given me far more in return: stronger bonds with my children, a deeper connection to our club and the opportunity to help shape a positive, inclusive environment where young people can grow.
When I first stepped onto the football pitch as a volunteer coach, it was simply to support my son’s U7 team. Three years on, with the team now at U10 level, I find myself proudly managing the squad and in my second year of coaching my six year old daughter and her friends. Both roles involve planning and delivering training sessions, and due to the differences in age and abilities, I have learnt how to adapt activities to meet the needs of a variety of young people. What began as a small act of support has grown into something that brings so much happiness, confidence and connection to our family and our club community.
My daughter was hesitant at first. Having me nearby helped her find the confidence to give football a try. She once told me, “I love mummy coaching me because I get to spend more time with her and play games together.” Now, she arrives at training full of energy, determined to run with the ball and score goals. That confidence is something I hope she’ll carry with her as she moves up to U7s next year.
My son has always loved football, but our journey together looks quite different. What started as me helping with team admin quickly turned into coaching and sorting team formations. I completed my UEFA C Licence, not just to improve my coaching ability, but to show my children that learning and development never stop. Match days remain a highlight, especially the moment our team lifted their first trophy together last year.
As a female coach and manager, I’m still in the minority. But visibility matters. Being present on the sidelines and leading sessions is my way of showing that football belongs to everyone. If my involvement helps even one young girl feel she has a place in the sport, then it’s worth every minute.
I also volunteer as the club’s Welfare Officer, working alongside dedicated committee members to ensure that every child, young person, coach and parent feels supported and valued. Creating safe, enjoyable environments is essential if we want more children, and more women, to thrive within grassroots sport.
Coaching reminds me that when we give to our community, we all gain. If my experience encourages more women to step forward as volunteers, leaders or role models in sport, then that will be a win far bigger than anything on the pitch.
Published: March 2026
