As the 2024/25 season draws to a close, head coaches remain deeply engaged, with little in the way of a true “break.” The football world is alive with speculation—players moving clubs, managers and coaches seeking new opportunities, whether for a prestigious position in a higher league or simply because their current club no longer aligns with their ambitions. Which by the way is absolutely acceptable!
However, despite the passion and commitment within the game, the challenges in women’s football remain stark. Take Wolves Women, for example: a team that pushed a fully professional side to the final match of the season to determine the winner of the toughest Tier 3 competition in memory—only to discover their club hadn’t even applied for promotion. That decision is beyond baffling and highlights the fragility of the women’s game. It’s an injustice to the players who juggle careers yet commit wholeheartedly to their team—just as those on hybrid or full-time contracts do. And it’s equally unacceptable for the staff who work relentlessly to create an environment where these athletes can excel, thrive, and be part of something truly special.
I hope the Wolves hierarchy truly follows through on its recently announced commitment to the women’s section and that this isn’t just a statement designed to ease concerns. But words alone aren’t enough—why can’t you support them now? Don’t promise to apply for promotion based on performance in 2025/26; back the team now, so they have the best possible chance of winning the league and securing their rightful place in the WSL2. Just a thought.
Respect for Women’s Football Starts at the Top
We have been conditioned to believe we should be grateful for the bare minimum. Clubs talk about women’s teams using “the men’s” training ground—but it’s the clubs training ground. We are made to feel like visitors in our own space, and that must change.
Women’s football must be treated as an integral part of the wider club, not as a separate entity. The time for token gestures and box-ticking exercises is over—clubs need to make meaningful changes that truly support the women’s game. Blackburn Rovers, take note.
When I played, I longed for teams to pay players, to offer professionalism, to provide the same infrastructure men had. And while it’s incredible to see Tier 3 teams now operating full-time, sustainability remains fragile.
Too many full-time players have left stable jobs to pursue their dream of playing professionally, only to be cast aside within months—sometimes without even a job to return to. Others are promised the world, only for managers to pull the rug from under them, with no explanation and no compassion. Often, this happens after a player has dedicated their entire preseason to a club—only to be left in a deeply vulnerable position.
What happens next? Some players lose their love for the game, never fully recovering. Others jump back on the conveyor belt, hoping their next club will treat them differently, only to find the same cycle repeating.
Supporting Players Beyond the Pitch
The number of players who have reached out to me this year because they have nowhere to turn is frightening. I am not trained in wellbeing support but I am honest, and I refuse to let people silence my voice. I challenge poor behavior without hesitation, and I wear my heart on my sleeve. I am proud of my footballing journey, and I know that, as an 18-year-old starting out at Stoke, I needed someone like the person I am now. That person didn’t exist for me, but if I can be that support for others, that means more than anything.
Head Coaches and Staff: Do better. Be better. Simply saying “person over player” means nothing unless you genuinely live by it. Words are easy, but actions will always speak louder. The job is tough, but you make it harder by neglecting the human side. Be the mentor you wish you had when you needed someone. Do not cross boundaries, and always remember: it is not all about you.
Players: Never forget your worth. Your value is not defined by minutes played, a coach’s opinion, or stats on paper. Your value lies in who you are, as a person, as a friend, as a sister, as a daughter. Football is part of you, but it does not define you. You are cherished by your family, loved by your friends, and valued by those who see your true self— not just the athlete.
Choosing the Right Club
Players, when selecting a club for next season, please remember: it’s not about the money, the facilities, or badge on your chest. It’s about finding a home that aligns with your values. Surround yourself with people who genuinely care about your development, not just as a footballer, but as a human being. Because I can promise you, happy players are better players.
For those released: do not lose sight of who you are. You haven’t suddenly become bad footballers, club ideologies shift, but your talent remains unchanged. You will get through this.
My social media DMs are always open for anyone who needs support or advice. The close season can really expose the fragile state of women’s football and while player welfare can be an after thought.
