BAME and Female coaching

Manchester FA launch Female and BAME development group

We are establishing a development group to help underrepresented individuals progress in their coaching careers.

As part of our ongoing commitment to developing female and BAME (black, Asian and minority ethnic) coaches, we are establishing a development group to help underrepresented individuals from Greater Manchester progress in their coaching careers. 


Female and BAME coaches of all levels, from beginners through to UEFA B, are invited to attend our launch event on the 1st April 2019 (6.30pm-9pm at Platt Lane Complex) to meet other coaches, and find out about the support they can receive from the Manchester FA Coach Development as they look to progress further in their coaching.


The group will be set in a friendly, welcoming and encouraging environment specifically aimed at female and BAME coaches, as we strive to continually diversify our coaching workforce in Greater Manchester. We want individuals to succeed in their career path, without gender or race acting as a barrier for progression. 


James Longdin, Football Development Officer (Education & Workforce) explains: “We’re setting this group so that female and BAME coaches can understand the support on offer and network with other individuals who may feel similar barriers exist to their progression. The group will be really informal, in a relaxed atmosphere but will provide connections and support for any coaches who feel unsure or lack confidence in their next coaching steps.”


The first 30 minutes of the event will allow attendees to meet and chat to other female and BAME coaches before an open discussion will be held and level-specific advice is given to those who are level 1, level 2 or UEFA B qualified to produce personal action plans for those wanting the extra help. 


At the launch event, we are keen to understand the ongoing support attendees would like, including future events and setting up social media groups for female and BAME coaches to support each other on their coaching journey, in an informal space. 


Rochdale AFC Community Cohesion Officer and Football Coach Syed Ali was supported by Manchester FA throughout his coaching journey: "Manchester FA and the tutors have always given me confidence to succeed and realise my ambitions, whether that is through information, courses or practical help. I coach with self-belief knowing that there is professional help nearby". 


If you would like to attend the launch event and help Manchester FA shape this network for the future, please sign up here.


If you have any questions on the group, or want to know more about our work with female and BAME coaches, please contact us on 0161 225 1966 or email courses@manchesterfa.com