In the world of sports, the gender dynamics of coaching can significantly influence the comfort levels of female athletes in addressing mental health concerns, especially those unique to girls like menstruation.
Among semi-elite female football players, the prevalence of symptoms was 20.4% for generalised anxiety, 22.3% for eating disorders, 49.5% for distress and 44.7% for depression (Bramley, Healy and Sarkar, 2024 on Mental ill-health in semi-elite women’s soccer in England).
As male coaches take on the role of mentors and guides for female football players, they confront the challenge of fostering open dialogue and understanding around mental well-being.
Sheffield Football Club is a North Derbyshire, England-based football team. FIFA recognises the club, which was founded in October 1857, as the oldest football team continuously active worldwide.
PHOTO CREDIT: Annie King
Recently appointed as a coach for the Sheffield FC Women’s First team, Matt Chatfield’s presence offers reassurance and guidance, fostering an environment where players feel heard and supported.
PHOTO CREDIT: Annie King
He said: “Being a coach is a confidant, knowing that I am the one the girls come to for help. Getting a good connection with them and making them feel safe whilst making it a fun environment gives them a sense of comfort.”
The swift and substantial impact that a newly appointed coach has had on the team is truly remarkable.
The 31-year-old added: “Ultimately, their emotions when it’s their time of the month can be difficult to manage. I’ve found that dealing with these personal issues openly and trying to be as understanding as I can has benefitted a few of the girls since my arrival at the club.”
For female athletes, football serves as a refuge, offering not only enjoyment but also opportunities to cultivate friendships and push personal boundaries during training sessions.
These collective experiences are invaluable, not only for physical fitness but also for mental well-being, providing a crucial outlet for stress relief and emotional expression.
Reflecting on his observations, Chatfield said: “I see first-hand how much training benefits the girls mentally and physically. They’re out of the house, they’re with friends, and they're having fun.
“The ladies game has been an eye-opener for me. I didn’t realise how advanced it would be at this level, but it’s just as professional as it would be in the male equivalent league.”
PHOTO CREDIT: Annie King
28-year-old Brooke Smith, captain of the women’s team, underscored the profound influence that Chatfield has on the team. She said: “Obviously you have off days and games, and with male coaches, it can be hard opening up about female issues.
“Our coach Matt is so understanding and allows us to be upfront and personal with him. I’m surprised at how well he handles us as a team of girls all going through these issues constantly.”
Smith opened up about some of the personal challenges she has faced in football. She explained: “I think injuries can be the toughest challenge mentally in football. I think just being around the girls makes it manageable but knowing you could be out of the game and training for a while from an injury makes you feel lost.
“You play football as an escape and to have fun and challenge yourself and when you get told you can’t play it’s like you lose a part of yourself.”
As well as the support from their coach, the Sheffield FC Women’s team have various other members of staff they can approach for help.
Chatfield added: “We have a female psychologist at the club who comes and monitors everyone’s behaviour which is beneficial.
“We also have a female coach, Natasha, which can be helpful for the girls to have another woman to approach if they ever feel uncomfortable coming to me.”
Liverpool Feds Women’s Football Club is located in Merseyside. It’s an association football team for women, where the first team currently plays in the FA Women’s National League North.
PHOTO CREDIT: Marc Joyce's Instagram: @marc_joyce
Marc Joyce, Assistant Manager of Liverpool Feds, emphasises the club's commitment to supporting the team and their mental health.
He stated: “At our club, we prioritise the mental well-being of our female players just as much as their physical skills.
“As a male coach, I believe it’s crucial to create a safe and inclusive environment where female players feel comfortable discussing any mental challenges they may be facing.”
The club has implemented a comprehensive range of resources and support systems to ensure that their female athletes have access to the mental health assistance they need.
Joyce added: “We offer a range of support systems including access to our sports therapist, Lucy Holmes, two physios that support the girls through rehabilitation and injuries, as well as several members of our coaching staff that are available to talk to the girls if they feel they need support or guidance.”
At Liverpool Feds, fostering a culture of openness and inclusivity is paramount. Their approach recognises that mental health is just as important as physical health.
As male coaches continue to champion mental health awareness and support within women’s sports, their efforts serve as a beacon of progress in an arena historically marked by silence and stigma.
However, in the evolving landscape of women’s football, there is a pressing need for male coaches to deepen their understanding of female-specific issues such as periods, hormonal fluctuations and mental health challenges.
It is imperative for coaches to be well-informed and sensitive to these matters as female players may feel hesitant or uncomfortable seeking support from male coaches if they perceive a lack of understanding or empathy.
If you are a sportsperson struggling with mental health and would like some support, click the link below:
Comments