Shelley Kerr steps down from her role as Scotland Head Coach, in which she led the team to their first FIFA Women’s World Cup.
However, Scotland cannot now qualify for Women’s EURO 2022 and following discussions between Kerr and Ian Maxwell (Scottish FA Chief Executive), it was agreed by both parties that the timing was right to allow a new Head Coach to begin preparations for the 2023 World Cup qualifying campaign.
Ian Maxwell told scottishfa.co.uk: “Shelley’s impact on the Scotland Women’s National Team cannot be underestimated. We are thankful for her contribution in leading the team to historic success in qualifying for the Women’s World Cup, and for the dedication and commitment to advancing the women’s game at all levels.
“She has been a proud ambassador of women’s football throughout her career: as a former internationalist with 59 caps, as the first woman to manage in the senior men’s game in Scotland with Stirling University, and of course her achievements as SWNT Head Coach.
“This UEFA EURO qualifying campaign ended sooner than we anticipated and we both felt it was the right time for the national team to regroup in time for the World Cup qualifiers, and for Shelley to fulfil her career ambitions with a fresh challenge. She will remain an advocate for the women’s game in Scotland and we wish her the best for the future.”
Shelley Kerr commented: “Naturally, I am deeply disappointed that we failed to qualify in our recent UEFA EURO qualifying campaign. There were huge expectations surrounding the whole team, based on our recent successes, but I couldn’t be prouder than to have led the team – as well as the team behind the team – to the Women’s World Cup.
“I thank the Scottish FA and all who supported me in fulfilling my dream of leading our country to the World Cup finals for the first time. I am privileged to have played a part in such an historical moment in Scottish football. That is something that will live with me forever.
“I have lived and breathed the sport for as long as I can remember, so I know in my heart that the time is right for a new head coach to take the team forward to the next campaign. I dedicated almost four years to the role as national coach. Having spent my life in football and worked at every level of the pathway, it has been the pinnacle to date to get the opportunity to work with such a fantastic squad of players.”
