Doncaster Rovers Belles have announced the appointment of Emma Coates as Manager.
Emma Coates, previously the Belles’ assistant first team coach, is a highly-respected member of the club who helped steer the team towards promotion last season. Coates replaces Glen Harris who left his role at the club earlier in the month.
A former footballer, FA Skills Coach and Head Coach at Leeds United Ladies Reserves and its Centre of Excellence, Coates is passionate about player development and her determination and willing to succeed perfectly complements the Belles’ vision to make a statement in the top-flight and continue the club’s unrivalled legacy.
Emma Coates is also part of Belles’ unique Female Mentoring Scheme, designed by Director of Football Julie Chipchase, which develops first-class women managers and coaches to work successfully in the top tier of women’s football.
Following her appointment, Emma Coates said: “I’m delighted to have been given the chance to take charge of a team with such a great history in the women’s game. The club have supported me throughout my development and I’m looking forward to leading the team forward. We now have to focus on developing some momentum for the second half of the season”
Chairlady, Faye Lygo, added: “Emma has been a central figure in the coaching team at the Belles and is an obvious next choice for us. She is well liked and respected by all at the club. She has a proven record with developing individual players, bringing through younger players and incorporating modern techniques in football coaching, with a proactive and intelligent approach. We are delighted she has accepted this long term appointment to lead the club.”
Julie Chipchase commented: “It is fantastic for the club that Emma accepted the role of Manager, having worked with Emma over the last few years through the clubs mentoring scheme it is great to see how much she has developed and now the time is right to offer this opportunity in leading the team within the top tier of women’s football”.
York-born Emma Coates will work in conjunction with Julie Chipchase and will be assisted by a supporting team of top-level coaches and Leeds Beckett University.
Report courtesy of Doncaster Rovers Belles
