Transition to Coaching
After participating for a few terms, her coach Alana Gunn, encouraged her to consider coaching. Molly embraced this opportunity and now coaches 4-6-year-old girls at the same hub where she began.
Molly's Reflections
Molly recalls her time as a participant, saying, "Being able to have fun while playing and not having any pressure put on me and I got to focus on the basics." Her positive experience inspired her to become a coach. She and her Mum believed it was a good idea to start coaching at a young age.
As a coach, Molly aims to create a supportive environment. She tells her players, "You're allowed to make mistakes and keep going, not giving up, and have confidence." Her advice to new participants is, "It’s okay to not be the best. As Fantails coaches, we won’t judge, and it’s a safe space."
The Importance of Female Coaches
Molly's journey from participant to coach highlights the pathway Fantails creates. Sport often serves as a stepping stone to leadership for girls, helping them build confidence and resilience that extend into other areas of life. Coaches play a crucial role in this development, and female coaches like Molly are especially important. They serve as role models, and can significantly influence whether girls continue playing sports.
Conclusion
Molly's story demonstrates the impact of the MILO Fantails programme in developing players and future leaders. By nurturing opportunities for young women to become coaches, the programme inspires the next generation of girls in football, supporting a pathway of growth and empowerment. This case study highlights the importance of providing a supportive and inclusive environment for girls to thrive both on and off the field.
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