In the traditionally male-dominated world of sports coaching, women are stepping up and shattering stereotypes. At major sporting events in 2024, female coaches are leading teams to victory, inspiring athletes, and paving the way for greater representation. Here are 10 trailblazing female coaches making history this year.

Dawn Staley – Leading Team USA Basketball

Dawn Staley, one of the most successful basketball coaches in history, continues to make waves in 2024 as the head coach of Team USA Women’s Basketball. A Hall of Famer and three-time Olympic gold medalist as a player, Staley’s leadership has earned her multiple championships as a coach. Her ability to build winning teams while advocating for gender equity in sports has made her a global icon in basketball.

Sarina Wiegman – Revolutionizing Women’s Soccer

Sarina Wiegman, head coach of England’s national women’s soccer team, is redefining the sport. After leading England to victory in the 2022 European Championship, Wiegman has her eyes set on 2024, pushing the team to new heights. Her tactical expertise and commitment to player development have made her one of the most respected figures in international soccer.

Becky Hammon – Trailblazer in the NBA

Becky Hammon continues to break barriers as one of the top female coaches in professional basketball. As the first full-time female assistant coach in NBA history and now the head coach of the WNBA’s Las Vegas Aces, she has earned widespread acclaim for her strategic acumen. In 2024, Hammon’s contributions to basketball extend beyond coaching, as she mentors young female players and advocates for inclusion in sports.

Image Credit: CC BY-SA 2.0/John McClellan

Emma Hayes – Innovating Coaching Strategies in Women’s Soccer

Emma Hayes, current head coach of United States women’s national team, is one of the most successful soccer coaches in the world. Known for her innovative strategies and ability to build cohesive teams, Hayes has led Chelsea Football Club Women to numerous league titles and Champions League finals. In 2024, her influence on the sport continues to grow as she advocates for increased investment in women’s soccer globally.

Image Credit: CC BY-SA 4.0/Katie Chan

Katie Sowers – Breaking Barriers in the NFL

Katie Sowers made history as the first openly LGBTQ+ coach in NFL history and the first woman to coach in a Super Bowl. Now, in 2024, she continues to inspire as a flag football defensive coordinator at Ottawa University, paving the way for women’s continued presence in the football arena. Sowers’ dedication to inclusion and diversity is helping to reshape the future of coaching in male-dominated sports.

Kim Mulkey – Dominating College Basketball

Kim Mulkey, head coach of the LSU women’s basketball team, is a force to be reckoned with in college basketball. Known for her fiery personality and strategic brilliance, Mulkey has led her teams to multiple NCAA championships. In 2024, she is once again leading her team through a dominant season, solidifying her legacy as one of the greatest coaches in women’s college basketball history.

Image Credit: CC BY-SA 4.0/Maddiiiesun

Nancy Lieberman – A Woman in Men’s Basketball

Nancy Lieberman, a trailblazer in basketball, has been a mentor and coach in both the NBA and the WNBA. In 2024, she continues her impactful work in developing young talent and breaking down barriers for women to have roles in men’s professional basketball. Lieberman’s career serves as a testament to the limitless opportunities for women in sports leadership.

Image Credit: CC BY-SA 2.0/Gage Skidmore

Lisa Keightley – Transforming Women’s Cricket

Lisa Keightley, recently named as coach of the Northern Superchargers, has been instrumental in the world of cricket. As the first full-time female coach of England Women’s Cricket Team, Keightley set new standards in cricket coaching. We can’t wait to see what expertise she brings to the Northern Superchargers.

Jill Ellis – Revolutionizing Soccer Development

Jill Ellis, former head coach of the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team and president of San Diego Wave FC, is now the Chief of Football at FIFA. While no longer coaching on the sidelines, her influence in shaping soccer development strategies remains profound in 2024. Ellis’ focus on growing the game globally ensures her legacy continues to inspire female coaches everywhere.

Pia Sundhage – Elevating Women’s Soccer in Switzerland

Pia Sundhage, manager of Switzerland women’s national football team, has brought her extensive international experience to Europe. With multiple Olympic and World Cup titles to her name as a coach, Sundhage is building a strong, competitive squad. Her efforts have focused on bridging the gap between men’s and women’s soccer in terms of funding and support, inspiring change in the sport.

Image Credit: CC BY 2.0/Anders Henrikson

Final Thoughts

These 10 incredible women are proving that sports leadership is not confined by gender. Their achievements in 2024 and beyond highlight the growing opportunities for women in coaching and their transformative impact on athletes and the sports industry. By breaking barriers and advocating for inclusion, they are inspiring the next generation of leaders in sports.