Coach Emma Coates Exits the Young Lionesses Post to Assume Command at NWSL's Bay FC
Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the former England youth boss has left her position leading the England WU23 national team to take over as head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.
A New Chapter
Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the San Jose-based club during its debut two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to resign at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the 14-team standings.
“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both professionally and personally. I am now prepared and eager to test my abilities in a new environment.”
Track Record of Success
In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through fixtures including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the European U23 League and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Accompanying her to the United States is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the WSL.
Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, praised Coates's qualifications: “She is both an excellent coach, but she also has a strong record of elevating athletes to thrive domestically and internationally.”
“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of teams and environments and has the tactical philosophy we were seeking,” she continued.
The Task Ahead
The California side experienced a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its first year before slipping to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their contributions and wish them all the best with their new challenge. Emma, with Gemma, has played a key role in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Together, they have directly shaped the development of many young players who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he finished.
Player Progression
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the advancement of a number of players to the England senior side, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
The search for their replacements has begun, to continue the development of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the future.
