Abstract
Women’s football in England has experienced a complex journey toward professionalisation, from early growth in the 20th century to decades of decline following the Football Association’s 1921 ban. Since the 1990s, structural reforms and investment have driven significant progress, culminating in the Women’s Super League achieving full professional status in 2018 and further developments across the Women’s Championship and Women’s National League.This thesis examines the impact of professionalisation and governance of women’s football of coaches and women referees. Using semi-structured interviews with 16 coaches and 12 referees, analysed through interpretative phenomenological analysis, the study identifies key themes relating to professional development, resource constraints, gender dynamics, and career pathways. Coaches reported barriers such as limited funding, restricted access to facilities and qualifications, and underrepresentation of women in professional roles. Referees highlighted persistent gender stereotypes, inadequate support, and uneven access to development programmes.
The findings illustrate the need for stronger policy and governance interventions, including sustainable funding, inclusive education pathways, and enhanced support networks. By foregrounding the lived realities of coaches and referees, the thesis contributes to understanding the professionalisation of women’s football and offers recommendations for creating a more equitable and sustainable future for the game.
| Date of Award | 30 Sept 2025 |
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| Original language | English |
| Awarding Institution |
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| Supervisor | Mike Rayner (Supervisor), Thomas Webb (Supervisor) & Barry Smart (Supervisor) |