The newly launched Barclays FA Women’s Super League Hall of Fame is delighted to announce Chelsea head coach Emma Hayes as the final inductee of 2021.
Hayes is the longest serving manager in the Barclays FA Women’s Super League and is one of the country’s most successful head coaches.
Her record of four league titles surpasses any other manager during the FA Women’s Super League era, and she has also established Chelsea as one of Europe’s giants during that time, managing some of the world’s best players.
She has also won two FA Women’s Continental Tyres League Cups and two Women’s FA Cups, while she recently passed 150 Barclays FA Women’s Super League games in charge of her club.
The Barclays FA Women’s Super League Hall of Fame expert selection panel agreed that Hayes was a worthy inductee based on her managerial achievements, but also the impact she has had on the women’s game during her career.
Chair of the Barclays FA Women’s Super League Hall of Fame panel, Kelly Simmons, said: “Induction into the Hall of Fame is the highest individual honour offered by the league and I am delighted that Emma has been inducted. Her record is incredible, but she’s so much more than that. She’s a great ambassador for the league, who works tirelessly behind the scenes, whilst also encouraging the development of coaches.
“She’s taken her knowledge into the broadcast world to become a great pundit, and I feel we are really lucky to have her in the league and recognised in the Barclays FA Women’s Super League Hall of Fame.”
All four inductees were selected by an expert panel that was made up of ex-players, coaches, a former official, journalists and representatives of The FA and Barclays.
Speaking of the Barclays FA Women’s Super League Hall of Fame selection panel, Kelly Simmons said: “When I was asked to chair the selection panel for the Barclays FA Women’s Super League Hall of Fame, I knew I wanted a variety of opinions and individuals to help me decide on who to induct.
“They have all made a significant impact on the women’s game, so their opinions and votes have been invaluable. I’m extremely thankful to the panel for giving up their time to help select the first ever Barclays FA Women’s Super League Hall of Fame inductees.”
Hayes is the final inductee into the Barclays FA Women’s Super League Hall of Fame for 2021, joining Fara Williams, Rachel Yankey and Kelly Smith. Extended interviews with all four inductees will be available to watch on Sky Sports’ ‘Inside the WSL’ show at 6pm this evening on Sky Sports Premier League.
A dedicated website to the Barclays FA Women’s Super League Hall of Fame has also launched to coincide with the announcement of the inductees, which can be found at wslhalloffame.thefa.com. You can keep up with the latest league news on the Barclays FA WSL Twitter page.
Courtesy of the FA
