Coach Emma Coates Departs the Young Lionesses Post to Assume Command at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC

Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the 34-year-old coach has stepped down from the Young Lionesses national team to take over as head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.

Fresh Beginnings

She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its first two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to step down at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom 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. This feels like the right moment to push myself in a fresh challenge.”

Proven Developer

In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the European U23 League and a high-scoring loss to the United States. She will be joined to the United States is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the WSL.

Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, praised Coates's credentials: “She is both an excellent coach, but she also has a demonstrated history of elevating athletes to thrive domestically and internationally.”

“She is an outstanding leader of people and culture and has the tactical philosophy we were seeking,” the CEO stated.

Club Context

The club experienced a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its debut season before facing difficulties to a 13th-place finish in 2025.

Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their time with us and wish them all the best with their next chapter. Emma, with Gemma, has played a pivotal part in fortifying the pipeline between the WU23s and the senior squad.”

“Their work has directly impacted the development of many promising talents who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he added.

Pathway Success

Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the rise of several players to the national team, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

An extensive process for new U23 coaching staff is now underway, to continue the development of the youth national team in the coming years.