Let's talk about Female Coaches!

In the world of sports, the impact of great coaching cannot be overstated. Coaches are mentors, strategists, and leaders who shape athletes not just physically but mentally and emotionally. Yet, for decades, coaching roles have been predominantly male-dominated, even in women’s sports. The tide is shifting, and with it comes the growing recognition of why female coaches are not just valuable—but essential—for the success of women in sport.

The Power of Representation and Leadership

Female coaches bring a unique perspective to the game, acting as living proof that leadership at the highest level is possible. They show athletes that women belong in every aspect of the sporting world—not just as competitors, but as decision-makers and game-changers. When young female athletes see a woman at the helm, they develop a stronger belief in their own abilities. It’s no longer just about playing the game; it’s about seeing what’s possible through leadership.

For example, coaches like Dawn Staley and Emma Hayes are not only winning championships, but they are also breaking barriers, creating a pipeline for future female coaches. Leadership is about more than X’s and O’s—it’s about inspiring the next generation.

Personal Experience: Understanding the Female Athlete

Women process information, leadership, and competition differently than men. Female coaches often bring a deeper level of understanding to the challenges women face in sport, from physiological differences to mental resilience and work-life balance. They know what it’s like to overcome barriers and can provide guidance in ways that male coaches may not fully grasp.

A great female coach can take a woman from where she is and make her greater—not just as an athlete, but as a person. She instills confidence, accountability, and self-belief in ways that go beyond the sport itself. This is what makes female coaches so powerful: their ability to lead with both expertise and lived experience.

As someone who believes deeply in the power of female mentorship, I know that women need female coaches in their lives to help them excel and hold onto their dreams. Female coaches create spaces where young women can grow, learn, and push themselves to be the best in their sport. They provide the motivation and guidance needed to stay focused, overcome adversity, and ultimately reach the highest levels of success.

The Role of Mothers in Finding the Right Coaches

Mothers play a crucial role in the athletic journey of their daughters. It is essential that they watch and understand how their young girls are being coached, ensuring that the coach’s goals align with their daughter’s aspirations. A great coach not only teaches skills but also nurtures confidence and personal growth.

Mothers should not hesitate to find the right person to coach their girls—someone who truly understands their potential and fosters an environment where they can grow and prosper. It is our responsibility as parents to place them in settings that provide the resources they need to thrive. The right coach can make all the difference in whether a young athlete simply participates or truly excels in the sport they love.

The High Level of Excellence

The best female coaches are proving that excellence is genderless. They are winning championships, coaching at the highest levels, and earning the respect of players and colleagues worldwide. Here are three of the best female coaches in sport today and why they stand out:

1. Dawn Staley (Basketball)

A former WNBA star and now the head coach of the South Carolina Gamecocks, Staley has built one of the most dominant programs in women’s college basketball. Her leadership has led to multiple national championships, and she continues to be a strong advocate for women in sports. Staley’s coaching philosophy is all about discipline, resilience, and empowerment.

2. Emma Hayes (Soccer)

As the head coach of Chelsea Women’s Football Club, Hayes has redefined women’s soccer. Her ability to develop elite-level players has earned her global recognition. She has consistently pushed for better conditions and opportunities for female players, proving that success comes not just from winning games, but from elevating the entire sport.

3. Bev Priestman (Soccer)

Leading Canada’s women’s national soccer team to Olympic gold in 2021, Priestman showcased her ability to create a winning culture. Her strategic mindset and focus on player development have cemented her as one of the top coaches in the world. 

Creating the Future

The importance of female coaches in sport extends beyond wins and losses. They create an environment where women thrive, believe in themselves, and push past limitations. The more women see female coaches at the highest levels, the more they believe in their own potential to lead. By increasing the number of female coaches, we are not just changing the game—we are shaping the future of women in sport.

Championing Women in Sports | Mechelle Lewis Freeman

Mechelle Lewis Freeman is a trailblazer in the world of athletics—a mother, wife, Olympian, and the visionary founder of Track Girlz. In 2/// Gold Medal victory in the Women’s 4x100 meter relay.

Her journey as an athlete and coach is a testament to perseverance, leadership, and passion for the sport. Through Track Girlz, Mechelle has dedicated herself to empowering young female athletes, providing them with the resources, mentorship, and opportunities needed to succeed both on and off the track.

Mechelle’s leadership in the 2024 Olympics serves as an inspiration, not only for her team but for aspiring athletes and coaches around the world. She embodies the power of female coaches in shaping the future of women’s sports, proving that with the right guidance and determination, young women can achieve greatness. 

As we celebrate Mechelle Lewis Freeman’s achievements, we also recognize the importance of strong, female role models in sports—women who break barriers, uplift others, and redefine what’s possible. Her legacy continues to shine, paving the way for future generations of female athletes and coaches.

@mechellelewisfreeman @trackgirlz