Starling Bank partners with Southampton FC to support female coaching

Starling Bank is building on its relationship with Southampton FC by setting up a new programme aiming to encourage more women and girls to start coaching football.

The initiative will look to recruit 20 female coaches above the age of 16, who will be given training with the aim of helping them achieve a recognised coaching qualification, completing the ‘FA Introduction to Coaching Award’ as part of the course.

The recruits will receive support and mentorship from the staff at Southampton’s academy in the form of three webinars and face-to-face training events. If successful, the participants will receive a toolkit to continue their coaching pathway, which will include a Starling Bank branded bag of balls, cones and bibs, six planning sessions, and membership to the Hampshire FA’s ‘Grow your Game’.

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Marieanne Spacey-Cale, Head of Women’s Football at Southampton Football Club, said: “We want to see more women working towards gaining a recognised coaching qualification and attract top talent. Those selected on our grassroots coaching programme will benefit from ongoing training and support from the Southampton Football Club team which will further develop their coaching skills and confidence.”

Staff at the club will also keep tabs on the recruits’ progress and nominate two who will then have the opportunity to enrol on the UEFA C course.

Rachel Kerrone, brand and marketing director at Starling Bank said: “Equality in women’s football will come from building out the talent pipeline with players and coaches, from grassroots clubs to those that play professionally. At Starling, we want to play a part in smashing those glass ceilings, just as we are doing for women in technology and banking.”

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Featured image credit: Isabelle Field/Southampton FC Women