A poignant and perceptive work that honors the impact of female coaches in sports…
In her latest book, Robertson, who has attended three Olympic Games as a communications specialist, shares the stories of twenty women coaches from across the commonwealth who faced countless obstacles and triumphed over them, empowering readers with their inspiring journeys. At the 2018 Commonwealth Games, a groundbreaking initiative was launched. The Women Coach Internship Programme (WCIP) aimed to empower female coaches from across the Commonwealth, led by renowned coach Sheilagh Croxon and supported by Robertson as communications consultant. Twenty interns were paired with mentors and gathered for their first meeting at the Athletes Village on April 5th. Their diverse backgrounds and shared goal of empowering female athletes fueled their journey together. As the Gold Coast event concluded and intern coaches reflected on their transformative experience, Robertson was urged to compile their tales in print. Despite challenges such as work commitments, a global pandemic, and logistical hurdles, this opportunity was too enticing to ignore. Robertson reflects on her journey creating this masterful book, the pinnacle of her career. She includes stories of remarkable individuals from the WCIP, such as Lini Kazim from Malaysia who left her illustrious law career to pursue sports, Victoria Grant from New Zealand who led her team to victory at the Commonwealth Games, Dumisani Chauke from South Africa who fights for women’s empowerment in sports, Tina Hoeben from Canada who overcame challenges in coaching, and Mildred Gamba from Uganda who dreams of teaching and empowering women through sports. Other notable coaches include Laura Kerr Lewis, Soraya Julaya Santos, Amanda Booth, Cordelia Norris, Carolyne Anyango, Jill Perry, Bah Chui Mei, Isabelle Lindor-André, Martine Dugrenier, Amanda Murphy, Endurance Ojokolo, Mpho Madi, Grace Mmolai, Sheila Gakii, and Evangeline Collier – whose acceptance into the program was a pivotal moment in her growth as a coach under mentor Alan Cooke. Robertson lays bare the personal struggles of these women and the solace they found in the world of sports, as well as their impactful positions within the commonwealth. Each coach profile is a compelling journey, showcasing the profound impact of their role. The book paints a larger picture of the significance of sports – building communities, fostering camaraderie, and beyond. Accompanied by stunning black and white photographs that perfectly complement the stories, this book is both poignant and uplifting. The appendix includes important resources such as application forms and guidelines for the CGF Women Coach Internship Programme. Above all, this narrative serves as an ode to women coaches from around the globe who have found purpose and meaning through their role on the field and within their country’s coaching team. Truly remarkable.
Stories of Resilience and Courage
Women Coaches Form a Global Community
Sheila Hurtig Robertso
Iguana Books
ISBN 978-1-77180-672-5 (paperback)
ISBN 978-1-77180-671-8 (epub)
Coming soon
