Hannah Dingley, the coach of Forest Green Rovers, will be concluding her tenure as the first woman to manage a men’s professional football team in England. The fourth-tier club has appointed David Horseman as their new head coach, leading to Dingley’s departure.
Dingley, who holds a UEFA Pro licence, was initially appointed as the caretaker head coach after Duncan Ferguson’s departure. Additionally, she was the sole woman to manage a club academy in the English men’s league.
Horseman has arrived from Southampton, where he was coaching the B team of the south-coast club. However, Dingley will continue to be in charge for the friendly matches against Coventry City and the Everton Under-21 teams this week.
“I’m grateful to Hannah for holding the fort for the club while we went through the complete recruitment process,” Forest Green owner Dale Vince said.
“Although she did not get the top job this time, it’s undoubtedly been a valuable experience and a big step on her career path.”
Horseman was also the coach of the Southampton first team during Ruben Selles’ tenure, and Vince mentioned that he was exceptional among more than 100 candidates.
“We’re delighted to have David join as our head coach, he brings a wealth of experience and a modern approach to the game which matches our own,” he added.