Football NSW Launches Future Female Coaches Mentoring Program
Football NSW is proud to announce the 2026 edition of its Future Female Coaches Mentoring Program, an initiative aimed at developing the next generation of high-performance female coaches within the state’s talented player pathway.
The program is designed for female coaches who hold a minimum AFC B Diploma and are actively working within Football NSW pathway competitions. Six coaches will be selected for the inaugural cohort, providing a unique opportunity to accelerate their development and progression within elite football environments.
Participants will be paired with experienced mentors who will provide tailored support throughout the season. Each coach will receive:
• Three in-person mentoring visits, including observation of training sessions and matches, with direct feedback provided in real-time environments
• Regular online meetings to support ongoing reflection, learning, and individual development planning
The Future Female Coaches Mentoring Program is proudly funded by the NSW Office of Sport through the Empower Her program, which supports increased participation of women and girls in leadership, coaching, and officiating roles.
This initiative forms part of Football NSW’s broader commitment to building inclusive, equitable, and high-performance pathways for women in football. By investing in female coaches, the program aims to strengthen and diversify the coaching landscape across the state.
Edward Ferguson, Head of Football Development, said:
“Learning happens through coaching in real environments, and we recognise our role in providing both stretch and support to high-potential coaches. This program offers tailored mentoring that complements formal coach education and enhances effectiveness in practice.”
Hayley Todd, Football NSW Head of Womens and Schools Football, said:
“Creating sustainable pathways for female coaches is a key priority. This program supports their development while also providing valuable insight into what is required to progress from state competitions into national and international environments.”
Applications for the 2026 intake are now open, with selected coaches set to commence the program mid-year.
For more information or to apply, visit HERE
