Football Victoria (FV) was proud to launch the CoacHER Pathway Program at The Home of The Matildas on May 10, marking a landmark moment for female coaching in Victoria — the largest female-only coaching course ever delivered in the state.
The event brought together a passionate group of over 85 women for a day of learning, connection, and inspiration. The program aims to break down the barriers women face in football coaching, while creating a supportive and sustainable development pathway for aspiring and experienced female coaches.
Coach Education Coordinator Emily Sutcliffe explained the day was "more than a course".
"Seeing such a large group of women all in one space, learning and supporting one another, was incredibly powerful,” she said.
The day wasn’t just about technical learning — it was about creating a space where women felt seen, heard, and valued. Two participants approached staff in tears, overwhelmed by the power of being in a football environment full of like-minded women.
“For many of these women, this was the first time they’d ever been in a coaching space surrounded entirely by other women. It’s hard to put into words how meaningful that is,” Sutcliffe said.
Nearly 72 female coaches proudly completed their Foundation of Football course, while 15 advanced female coaches participated in FV’s first-ever in-person female-only CPD workshop, themed Match Day.
The program also featured a special opportunity for participants to watch the Melbourne Victory FC semi-final, creating space for meaningful networking among women in football.
"One coach shared her journey in football, recalling the challenges she faced when coaching her son's team - including repeated derogatory comments questioning her capability simply because she was female. She shared with tutors that this was the first time in years, she felt truly supported."
The CoacHER Pathway Program is designed for women of all ages and backgrounds — whether they’re experienced coaches, current players, or completely new to the coaching space. The initiative is a key step in Football Victoria’s commitment to achieving gender equity in football coaching.
With only 14% of coaches in Victoria being female, CoacHER is designed to:
- Remove financial and accessibility barriers to coaching education and CPD
- Increase female representation across all levels of football, from grassroots to elite
- Provide mentorship, peer support, and networking opportunities
“Visibility is critical,” said Sutcliffe.
“The more women we see in coaching roles, the more we inspire the next generation of girls to step up — not just as players, but as leaders in our game.”
Saturday’s launch was just the beginning. FV is committed to delivering more female-only coaching programs, expanding the CoacHER network, and ensuring every woman in football has the opportunity to thrive.
“This is what CoacHER is all about — community, growth, and opportunity,” Sutcliffe said.
“We are here to back every woman who wants to make a difference in football.”
This opportunity was made possible through the Growing Football Fund, proudly supported by Football Australia and CommBank.
A special thank you to our Coach Education team for their dedication and tireless efforts in delivering such an impactful day.