The world of women's rugby is undergoing a significant shift, and it's not just about the players on the field. The rise of female coaches is a game-changer, and it's a topic that deserves a deeper dive.
The Power of Female Coaches
When Emily Scarratt, England's record points-scorer, transitioned from player to coach, she brought a unique perspective to the team. Scarratt's experience highlights the value of having women lead and mentor other women in sports.
"Having females around makes a big difference," Scarratt emphasizes. From creating a comfortable environment for players to express themselves to simple logistical advantages, the presence of female coaches is transformative.
A Growing Trend, But Room for Improvement
While the number of female coaches at the Women's World Cup has increased, it still falls short of the target set by World Rugby. This disparity is a reminder that we need to actively promote and support female coaches.
Fifa's new regulations, requiring at least one female head coach or assistant coach in women's football tournaments, is a step in the right direction. It's a policy that could and should be adopted more widely across sports.
The Master Plan
John Mitchell, England's head coach, seems to have a long-term vision for promoting female coaches. With several recently retired players expressing interest in coaching, Mitchell and the RFU are future-proofing the sport.
"They [Scarratt and Hunter] have been challenged for a long time in their careers and are extremely curious," Mitchell notes. Their extensive experience and natural curiosity make them ideal candidates for leadership roles.
Navigating the Challenges
Coaching former teammates is a unique challenge that Scarratt and Hunter are navigating. It requires a delicate balance between maintaining a professional distance and fostering a friendly environment.
"There's no point pretending we're not friends," Scarratt says. This authenticity and ease of working together are key strengths of having female coaches.
The Future of Women's Rugby
While Scarratt is passionate about increasing opportunities for female coaches, she acknowledges that there's still work to be done. Upskilling, making coaching more accessible, and increasing visibility are all crucial steps.
"It's very cool to see women in those roles," Scarratt adds. And I couldn't agree more. The more we see female coaches leading teams, the more it becomes a normalized and celebrated aspect of sports.
