Forest Green have made history by appointing Hannah Dingley as the first female head coach of an English Football League (EFL) club. Dingley, who previously led the club’s academy, has been appointed as caretaker head coach following the departure of Duncan Ferguson.
Ferguson, a 51-year-old Scot, was appointed in January but was unable to prevent Forest Green from being relegated from League One. The club won just six of their 46 games during the season.
In a statement on the club’s website, Forest Green chairman Dale Vince expressed his confidence in Dingley’s abilities: Hannah was the natural choice for us to be first team interim head coach. She’s done a fantastic job leading our academy and is well aligned with the values of the club.
Vince also highlighted the significance of Dingley’s appointment, emphasizing the progressiveness of Forest Green: It’s perhaps telling for the men’s game that in making this appointment on merit, we’ll break new ground — and Hannah will be the first female head coach in English (men’s) football.
Dingley, who will lead Forest Green in their opening pre-season fixture against Melksham Town, expressed her excitement about the opportunity: I’m really excited for this next step of my career. Pre-season has just begun, and the full season kicks off very soon. It’s an exciting time in football. I am grateful for the opportunity to step up and lead such a progressive and forward-thinking club.
Forest Green’s appointment of Dingley not only marks a significant moment for the club but also for the broader footballing community. With her appointment, Dingley becomes the first woman to lead a men’s professional senior team in England.
The move highlights the growing recognition of women’s capabilities within the sport and serves as a reminder of the importance of equal opportunities for all, regardless of gender. Dingley’s appointment will undoubtedly inspire other women aspiring to reach prominent positions in football coaching.
As Forest Green prepares for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on Dingley and her ability to guide the team to success. The appointment showcases Forest Green’s commitment to progressivism and their hope of making a lasting impact on English football.
Only time will tell how Dingley’s appointment will shape the future of the sport, but for now, football fans around the world celebrate this historic milestone. The appointment of the first female head coach in the English Football League signifies an important step forward for inclusion and diversity within the sport.
