Women coaches face declining numbers and systemic barriers in UK sports
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 1, 2026, 6:43 AM
Last updated Oct 1, 2026
The number of female coaches in the UK has declined by 6% overall, with a 10% drop at grassroots levels, according to a UK Coaching study. Barriers such as bullying, harassment, and financial challenges are contributing to this trend. Female representation among coaches in the Women's Super League has improved, with eight of 14 managers being women, but significant disparities remain. A recent report reveals that only 7% of grassroots football coaches in England are female, impacting young female players' experiences and opportunities. As the conversation around these challenges continues, many call for intervention to support women in coaching roles.
- •6% overall decline in female coaches; 10% drop at grassroots level.
- •Only 7% of grassroots football coaches in England are women.
- •Improved representation in the Women's Super League with eight female managers.
- •Financial barriers and systemic issues impact women's coaching opportunities.
- •Young female players feel they can confide in female coaches more than male coaches.
- 6:43 AMYahoo Sports — Money, family and sexism - why the number of women coaches is dropping
- 6:43 AMBBC Sport — Money, family and sexism - why the number of women coaches is dropping
"Despite recent on-pitch successes and increased media exposure for women's sport in the UK, major barriers remain - particularly in coaching.
"Despite recent on-pitch successes and increased media exposure for women's sport in the UK, major barriers remain - particularly in coaching.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsOct 1, 2026, 6:43 AMMoney, family and sexism - why the number of women coaches is dropping
Despite recent on-pitch successes and increased media exposure for women's sport in the UK, major barriers remain - particularly in coaching.
- BBC SportOct 1, 2026, 6:43 AMMoney, family and sexism - why the number of women coaches is dropping
Despite recent on-pitch successes and increased media exposure for women's sport in the UK, major barriers remain - particularly in coaching.
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