Applications are now open for the SHEcoaches initiative, which aims to identify and upskill the next generation of female talent and performance coaches.

The scheme is supported by SportsAid, which has invested £20,000 through its Backing The Best initiative to fully fund SHEcoaches for two years.

It is open to females aged 18 and above who meet at least one of the following criteria:

• Hold or be working towards at least a Level 1 session coach qualification
• Have some experience or exposure of coaching/supporting the coaching of talented players (male or female)
• Be a current/former player within an England/GB performance programme

SHEcoaches looks to address the shortage of female coaches operating in the talent and performance part of the pathway.

The first year will see a cohort of 10 coaches exposed to talent and performance coaching through immersive England and GB camp experiences, a series of online education and reflection sessions, plus experience of supporting a girls’ talent identification day.

Year 2 will see the cohort given wider mentoring support and a plan to continue to develop their learning and experience. After a selection process, a select number (2-3) of the cohort will be invited to national performance pathway camps on a regular basis and attend two international events with female players.

To find out more, download the Application Pack at the bottom of the page.

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