Lydia Bedford, fresh from the Under-17 World Cup with England, received a life-changing opportunity to manage Calgary Wild FC in Canada's inaugural women's professional soccer league. Despite her initial hesitations, including family health concerns, she decided to accept the challenge. The club, founded by women, aligns with her values, and she quickly engaged with recruitment after giving her commitment. Bedford previously made history as the first female head coach in a Premier League club, leading Brentford U-18 to triumph. Now, she looks forward to shaping a new chapter in women’s soccer.
Before long, she was on a plane headed to Canada. The 37-year-old Englishwoman has made it a tradition to be part of history, and her latest venture, to lead an upstart team in an upstart league, is no exception.
I first rang my parents and was like, this is a bit mad, I should be thinking about being here. What do you think I should do?' Bedford tells the Guardian.
Two days later, she agreed to come aboard. Then, as soon as I said yes, I was on calls with players within 48 hours, she says.
In 2023 she made history by becoming the first female head coach at a Premier League club, when she was appointed to lead the Brentford U-18 team.
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