Better representation for women in coaching and development of the female coaching pathways are pivotal to mirror the growth of the women’s game.

So many elite women’s footballers retire young in comparison to other industries, yet so few turn to top-level coaching after hanging up their boots. The most successful in the field are often ex-professional footballers, Sarina Wiegman and Renée Slegers two that immediately come to mind. With a wealth of first-hand experiences on the pitch, alongside in-depth knowledge of the game and the requirements of being a successful footballer, professional footballers are often expected to take the coaching route once retired from on-pitch duties. However, this is not the reality.

Only a small number of footballers consider the possibility of becoming coaches after their retirement. And others grow up without the possibility of pursuing a coaching career. There are several challenges faced by women and girls with aspirations of being the next top female coach: structural barriers, the ‘player to coach’ myth, a lack of awareness and representation, and financial burdens.

World Sevens Football made its London debut this week and did not disappoint. From fun walkouts to goals galore, the tournament went from success to success in front of sold-out crowds at the GTECH Community Stadium.

Eight Barclays Women’s Super League clubs starred in the tournament: Aston Villa, Chelsea, Everton, Leicester City, London City Lionesses, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United. Chelsea lifted the trophy at the home of Brentford FC after a tight final win over the Red Devils, ending a challenging season for the club in high spirits.

However, this is much more than a competitive football tournament. World Sevens is a fun event that brings together the women’s football community, champions women in sport, and showcases the personality behind the players and staff. Nothing else compares!

Sarina Wiegman announced her 25-player England squad for the upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup Qualifiers against Spain and Ukraine next month. 

The latest squad announcement has given fans plenty to be excited about, with three key players returning from injury alongside several emerging talents continuing to impress ahead of a crucial international window.

Head coach, Wiegman has welcomed back some of England’s biggest names, offering a major boost as the Lionesses continue preparations for the next stage of their international campaign.