Sarina Wiegman Inspires the Next Generation of Football Coaches at Wembley

A select few of aspiring football coaches experienced an unforgettable moment this week as they met England women’s head coach Sarina Wiegman at the Wembley Stadium. The event, part of the Chase football coaching programme, offered five beneficiaries the chance to gain insights from one of the most successful managers in the game.

“Enjoy It!” says Wiegman to Aspiring New Coaches

Ahead of England’s Nations League matches against Portugal on the 21st February and Spain on the 26th February, Wiegman shared invaluable career insights and advice for the next generation of football coaches. The Dutch manager also highlighted the profound impact of coaching on both individuals and communities.

“Coaches have a huge impact on their local communities and it’s important that they’re representative of society, so I think it’s brilliant that Chase is offering more people the opportunity to access the industry.

“I’ve enjoyed meeting such a passionate group today and I hope this experience encourages them to continue their coaching journey,” says Wiegman. 

Opening Doors for a New Generation of Football Coaches

The Chase football coaching programme, now in its second year, offers fully funded access to introductory coaching qualifications and professional coaching bursaries with the aim to remove financial barriers and increase representation in coaching across the UK. 

“At the heart of our partnerships with the Home Nations Football Associations is a commitment to help individuals develop key skills and boost their employability by providing fully funded access to coaching qualifications,” says Deborah Keay, Chase’s Chief Marketing Officer 

“As we enter the second year of the Chase football coaching programme, it’s exciting to meet with our beneficiaries and hear first-hand the positive impact it has had. We’re looking forward to continuing our work with the Home Nations, helping people from communities across the UK to unlock their potential, both on and off the pitch,”concludes Keay. 

Research from YouGov, commissioned by Chase, found that financial constraints are major obstacles for individuals from under-resourced communities in the UK pursuing professional coaching.  45% of respondents stating that financial support would encourage them to continue their coaching journey, the programme is addressing a crucial need.

An Inspiring Visit to the Home of Football

For one of the programme beneficiaries Craig Parry, the experience was invaluable. “It’s been incredibly inspiring to get insights, advice and encouragement from such a successful coach like Sarina at the home of English football.I’m really grateful to Chase for the chance to complete my coaching qualifications and develop key skills. Without the Chase funded place I wouldn’t have been able to continue my coaching journey, so I’m excited for what the future may hold.”

With initiatives like the Chase football coaching programme, the pathway to coaching is becoming more accessible, helping ensure that the leaders on the touchline better represent their communities.