Toolstation NCEL Division One outfit FC Humber United have appointed a female first team coach in Jill Stacey.
Stacey is technical director of York City FC Regional Talent Club, a Talent Pathway Programme for Elite female players from 8-16 year olds
She previously coached Newcastle United Women’s first team.
Although possibly a landmark appointment for the Toolstation NCEL, it is not one for the whole of Non League Football.
Hannah Digley, the academy manager at Forest Green, previously assisted at Gresley FC, while Peckham Town are managed by former England International Mary Phillips.
Stacey said: “I’ll be working alongside the two Mark’s as the First Team Coach. I’ll be responsible for designing and delivering technical & tactical practices that fit with the FC Humber United’s game model. I’ll feed my thoughts and opinions into Mark who has overall responsibility for team selections.
“The lads have been brilliant from the start, they have spoken to me & treated me the same as the other coaching staff and I wouldn’t expect anything different.
“For the two sessions that I have delivered so far, they have taken on board the objective and have worked really hard to try and achieve it, which is exactly what I’ve asked for.
“The boys seem keen to learn so ask questions & challenge me & each other appropriately.
“I’ve already had conversations with a few players about their own development and how they can continue to work on themselves away from training, which is excellent.”