Just hours after the departure of Duncan Ferguson, Forest Green have appointed Hannah Dingley as caretaker head coach, making her the first woman to take charge of an English Football League club.
Dingley joined the club as a coach four years ago and remains the only woman in charge of a men’s English Football League academy, since her appointment in 2019.
During her tenure at the club, she also initiated the launch of the FGR Girls Academy in 2021, which develops female players – mirroring the men’s setup.
She takes the reins with immediate effect.
Dale Vince, Chairman, Forest Green Rovers, commented: “Hannah was the natural choice for us, to be first team interim coach – she’s done a fantastic job leading our academy and is well aligned with the values of the club. It’s perhaps telling for the men’s game that in making this appointment on merit, we’ll break new ground – and Hannah will be the first female Head Coach in English (men’s) Football.”
Hannah Dingley, Caretaker Head Coach, Forest Green Rovers, said: “I’m really excited for this next step of my career. Pre-season has just begun, and the full season kicks off very soon. It’s an exciting time in football. I am grateful for the opportunity to step up and lead such a progressive and forward-thinking club.”
