‘Why am I putting myself through this?’ Women football coaches’ experiences of the Football Association's coach education process
A summary of the research:
The article "‘Why am I putting myself through this?’ Women Football Coaches' Experiences of the Football Association’s Coach Education Process" investigates the challenges faced by female coaches in the male-dominated world of football coaching in the UK. The study, based on interviews with ten women coaches who participated in various Football Association (FA) coaching courses, highlights the pervasive gender discrimination and cultural biases they encountered. These women reported feelings of isolation, constant pressure to prove themselves, and a lack of respect from male peers and educators. The study draws on Bourdieu's theories of social acceptance and symbolic violence to explain how women coaches were marginalized, often made to feel like outsiders in a space dominated by men.
The findings reveal that sexist language, behaviors, and inappropriate practices were common during the coaching courses, leaving many women questioning their desire to continue in the profession. The study emphasizes the need for structural changes, including more female role models in coaching education and the potential benefits of women-only coaching courses. The participants believed that such changes would provide a more supportive and equitable environment, helping to address the underrepresentation of women in football coaching.
Key Takeaways:
Pervasive gender discrimination: Women coaches frequently faced sexist remarks and behaviors, which undermined their confidence and made them feel unwelcome in the FA coaching courses.
Lack of female role models: The overwhelming presence of male educators in the coaching courses left women without mentors or relatable figures, exacerbating their sense of isolation.
Need for women-only courses: Many participants suggested that creating women-only coaching courses would foster a more supportive and comfortable environment, encouraging more women to pursue coaching qualifications.
Authors: Colin J. Lewis, Simon J. Roberts, & Hazel Andrews
You can read the entire article here.
