July 05, (THEWILL) – Hannah Dingley has shattered the glass ceiling by becoming the first woman to be appointed as the manager of a professional men’s team in England.
Forest Green Rovers, a League Two club, selected Dingley for the caretaker position following the departure of Duncan Ferguson, after a brief six-month tenure. With four years of coaching experience at the club and a UEFA Pro Licence, Dingley played a pivotal role in establishing the FGR Girls Academy, which focuses on developing female players.
Having previously worked with Burton Albion’s academy and first team, Dingley was pleased with the new challenge and noted her gratitude for the opportunity to lead such a progressive and forward-thinking club. On his part, Rovers Chairman, Dale Vince, commended Dingley on her outstanding contribution to the club and acknowledged her well-deserved appointment as the interim Head Coach.
Vince highlighted Dingley’s remarkable achievements in leading the FGR Academy and her alignment with the club’s values. He also pointed to the historic significance of Dingley’s appointment, remarking that it breaks new ground in English men’s football, while highlighting the need for further progress and representation.
Dingley will commence her managerial journey with a friendly match against Melksham Town, and Forest Green Rovers, who were relegated from League One last season, will kick off their League Two campaign at home against Salford on August 5.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
