The demands of being a Women's Super League (WSL) manager are taking a toll on mental health, according to Rehanne Skinner, former Tottenham and current WSL manager. Skinner believes that mental health support is often "reactionary" and not a priority, with many managers struggling to access help due to the fear of being seen as weak or vulnerable.
The League Managers' Association (LMA) is the only independent entity that recognizes the stresses that WSL managers are under, but Skinner says that more funding is needed for the organization to provide adequate support. She also advocates for mental wellbeing training and education to be made a priority in football, with conversations about mental health never stopping.
Skinner's comments come as part of a growing concern about the lack of focus on mental wellbeing in the women's game. While player care roles are being introduced at clubs, Skinner believes that more needs to be done to support managers and other staff members.
The issue is highlighted by the fact that the Football Association-backed Sporting Chance charity has a 24/7 helpline, but it is not clear how often this service is used by WSL managers. Additionally, there is a lack of transparency around the number of mental health resources available to managers at different clubs.
Skinner's calls for more support and education come as the women's game continues to grow in popularity and competitiveness. As the sport becomes more professionalized, it is essential that players, staff, and fans prioritize their mental wellbeing and create a culture of openness and support.
The WSL has taken steps to address the issue, with the introduction of player care roles and the creation of the Pro Coach Partnership (PCP) to discuss and review provisions across the men's and women's game. However, more needs to be done to ensure that managers have access to the resources they need to perform at their best.
In conclusion, Skinner's comments highlight the importance of prioritizing mental wellbeing in football, particularly for WSL managers who are often under immense pressure. The lack of focus on this issue is a concern that needs to be addressed by clubs, leagues, and governing bodies to create a culture of support and understanding.
The League Managers' Association (LMA) is the only independent entity that recognizes the stresses that WSL managers are under, but Skinner says that more funding is needed for the organization to provide adequate support. She also advocates for mental wellbeing training and education to be made a priority in football, with conversations about mental health never stopping.
Skinner's comments come as part of a growing concern about the lack of focus on mental wellbeing in the women's game. While player care roles are being introduced at clubs, Skinner believes that more needs to be done to support managers and other staff members.
The issue is highlighted by the fact that the Football Association-backed Sporting Chance charity has a 24/7 helpline, but it is not clear how often this service is used by WSL managers. Additionally, there is a lack of transparency around the number of mental health resources available to managers at different clubs.
Skinner's calls for more support and education come as the women's game continues to grow in popularity and competitiveness. As the sport becomes more professionalized, it is essential that players, staff, and fans prioritize their mental wellbeing and create a culture of openness and support.
The WSL has taken steps to address the issue, with the introduction of player care roles and the creation of the Pro Coach Partnership (PCP) to discuss and review provisions across the men's and women's game. However, more needs to be done to ensure that managers have access to the resources they need to perform at their best.
In conclusion, Skinner's comments highlight the importance of prioritizing mental wellbeing in football, particularly for WSL managers who are often under immense pressure. The lack of focus on this issue is a concern that needs to be addressed by clubs, leagues, and governing bodies to create a culture of support and understanding.