Addressing the Gender Gap in Football Coaching

The underrepresentation of women in football coaching is a longstanding issue, rooted in systemic barriers and a lack of opportunities. Emma Hayes, the highly respected coach of the US Women’s National Team and the campaign’s ambassador, has consistently championed the need for proactive measures to level the playing field. “I’ve spoken many times about the need to come up with creative ways to address the lack of female coaches in football,” Hayes stated. “This campaign is a great example of how we can reach more women, giving them the education and confidence to pursue their dreams. With the right opportunities, we will see female coaching flourish at the top level in the years to come.”

The ‘Missing Managers’ campaign leverages the immense popularity of Football Manager to identify potential candidates. Players of Football Manager 26 on Xbox who achieve the ‘First Victory’ in-game achievement will be eligible to apply. Up to eleven successful applicants will receive scholarships to cover the costs of obtaining their UEFA coaching licenses. But the opportunity doesn’t stop there. Winners will also gain invaluable hands-on experience working with a professional club through The Powerhouse Project, and, in a first for the game, will be integrated as a coach within a future edition of Football Manager – a unique form of digital recognition and career advancement.

Mohan Gehlot, Senior Marketing Manager at Xbox, emphasized the synergy between the game and the real-world initiative. “What better way to celebrate the debut of the women’s game in Football Manager than by supporting players to take the first steps on their real-life coaching journey? We want to see the momentum that’s behind women’s football reflected in better representation across all levels of the sport. That’s why we’re looking forward to finding our Missing Managers.”

This initiative builds upon existing efforts to promote diversity in football. Organizations like Women in Football have been working tirelessly to create networks and advocate for equal opportunities. Women in Football provides resources and support for women at all levels of the game, from grassroots to the professional ranks. The ‘Missing Managers’ campaign offers a new and innovative avenue for aspiring coaches to break into the industry.

But will this campaign truly move the needle? The challenge lies not only in identifying talented individuals but also in fostering a supportive environment within clubs and governing bodies that actively encourages and retains female coaches. What systemic changes are needed to ensure that these newly qualified coaches are given the same opportunities as their male counterparts?

The inclusion of winners *within* the game itself is a particularly compelling aspect of the campaign. It not only provides recognition but also creates a powerful symbol of progress for aspiring players and coaches alike. Could this innovative approach inspire other game developers to integrate similar initiatives into their titles, further promoting diversity and inclusion within the gaming world?

Frequently Asked Questions About the ‘Missing Managers’ Campaign

• What is the ‘Missing Managers’ campaign?

  The ‘Missing Managers’ campaign is an initiative by Football Manager, Xbox, and Sky Sports to find and fund aspiring female football coaches, addressing the gender gap in professional coaching.

• How can I apply for the ‘Missing Managers’ scholarship?

  Players of Football Manager 26 on Xbox who complete the ‘First Victory’ in-game achievement are eligible to apply for the scheme.

• What does the scholarship cover?

  The scholarship will fund the UEFA coaching license for up to 11 winners, as well as provide hands-on experience at a professional club through The Powerhouse Project.

• Will the winning coaches be featured in future Football Manager games?

  Yes, in a first for the game, each winner will be added as a coach in the next Football Manager title.

• Who is Emma Hayes and what is her role in the campaign?

  Emma Hayes is the coach of the US Women’s National Team and serves as the campaign ambassador, advocating for increased female representation in football coaching.

• Where can I find more information about the Powerhouse Project?

  Information about The Powerhouse Project can be found on their official website: https://thepowerhouseproject.co.uk/