The NWSL is made up of incredible athletes, fierce competition, and inspiring role models. But if you take a look at the sidelines, you’ll notice something’s missing: women coaches. While the league showcases some of the best female soccer players in the world, the majority of head coaching positions are held by men. Why? What are we doing to address this?
The Current Landscape
Only three of the 14 NWSL teams have women head coaches. This disparity isn’t new; it’s a pattern across women’s sports. While amazing, successful women coaches are in the league; they’re the exception, not the rule.
The Three Women Coaches
Angel City Football Club – Becki Tweed
Seattle Reign FC – Laura Harvey
Racing Louisville FC – Bev Yanez
There were more women head coaches, but with recent league turnover, the number plummeted. The San Diego Wave famously parted ways with head coach Casey Stoney after a seven-game winless streak, but also soon after she led the team to the NWSL Shield and the Challenge Cup. Fans were upset to see their LGBTQ+ female coach replaced by a man. The league also saw the departure of Utah Royals coach Amy Rodriguez after a rough start to their inaugural season.
Most of the former women head coaches were considered interim, including Ella…
