BBC Sport has produced a report on player-coach relationships in women’s football.
Several sources have told the BBC that “everyone in women’s football knows of at least one” instance of a player-coach relationship. They describe these relationships as “inappropriate”, as they can create a power imbalance. They can also lead to a potential abuse of power.
But because player-coach relationships are not illegal, as long as no minors are involved, they still happen – although they can breach codes of conduct.
It leads to lots of grey areas. This isn’t helped by a ‘culture of silence’ in the game, as so many have experienced such personal relationships – either first-hand or second-hand.
That is why there are calls from players, coaches and unions for further education on this highly sensitive issue.
You can read the BBC report in full here.
You can also read our blog about player-coach relationships here. Our blog explores the risks and the complexities. It also offers some advice on how your club could navigate this sensitive issue.