Emma Coates Exits the Young Lionesses Role to Assume Command at NWSL's Bay FC
Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the 34-year-old coach has resigned her post with the Young Lionesses national team to take over as head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.
A New Chapter
She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its inaugural two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to resign at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the league standings.
“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both in my career and as an individual. This feels like the right moment to push myself in a new environment.”
Coaching Pedigree
Since taking charge in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the European U23 League and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Accompanying her to America is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the English top division.
Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, spoke highly of Coates's qualifications: “Emma is not only an outstanding tactician, but she also has a demonstrated history of elevating athletes to thrive domestically and internationally.”
“She is an outstanding leader of squads and building ethos and has the strategic outlook we were looking for,” added Cossington.
Bay FC's Journey
Bay FC had a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its debut season before struggling to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their contributions and wish them all the best with their next chapter. Emma, with Gemma, has played a key role in strengthening the pathway between the WU23s and the senior squad.”
“Their work has directly shaped the development of many promising talents who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he added.
Pathway Success
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the advancement of multiple players to the Lionesses squad, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
The search for new U23 coaching staff is now underway, to continue the progress of the youth national team in the future.
