GFA coaching programme helps 19 female footballers prepare for life after playing

Nineteen current and former female footballers have successfully completed Module One of the FIFA Coach Education Scholarship: All-Female CAF Licence C Coaching Course as the Ghana Football Association continues efforts to create career pathways for women beyond their playing days.

The programme, held at the GFA Technical Centre in Prampram, brought together six active players and 13 retired footballers who are preparing to transition into coaching roles within the women's game.

The initiative forms part of the GFA Women's Football Strategy, which seeks to increase the number of qualified female coaches while ensuring former players remain involved in football after retirement.

By equipping participants with coaching qualifications, the programme aims to retain valuable experience, leadership and technical knowledge within Ghana's women's football ecosystem.

Speaking after the completion of Module One, Jennifer Ackah stressed the importance of creating opportunities for players once their careers on the pitch come to an end.

"When players retire without a pathway, we lose knowledge, leadership, and role models from the game. This coach education provides a structured transition into coaching and ensures that experienced players remain part of football development," she said.

CAF Instructor and former Black Queens coach Mercy Tagoe-Quarcoo encouraged the participants to use their playing experiences to guide the next generation.

"Your experience as players is invaluable. Now you have the tools to pass it on properly. You are the bridge between the dreams of young girls and the national teams of tomorrow," she said.

The programme is expected to play a key role in strengthening coaching capacity across the country and supporting the long-term growth of women's football in Ghana.