NEWS · 02 Oct 2026
Money, family, sexism: Why the number of women coaches is falling
Even as women's football gains on‑pitch success and media attention in the UK, the number of female coaches is shrinking. Key obstacles—financial constraints, family responsibilities, and sexism—continue to hold back progress. The sport must tackle these barriers to sustain its growth.
Women’s football in the United Kingdom has enjoyed a surge of on‑pitch achievements and growing media coverage in recent years. The national league has seen more televised matches, and international success has raised the sport’s profile.
Despite this progress, the proportion of female coaches has declined. A recent analysis shows fewer women occupying coaching roles at both club and national levels.
One major factor is money. Coaching salaries and funding opportunities are often lower for women, making it harder for them to sustain long‑term careers in the profession.
Family responsibilities also play a role. Many female coaches face challenges balancing the demands of coaching with childcare and other domestic duties, which can limit their availability.
Sexism remains a persistent barrier, with women reporting bias and unequal treatment within the coaching community. Addressing these issues will be essential if the sport wants to maintain its upward trajectory and provide role models for future generations.