READING FC Women boss Kelly Chambers has been named 2016 Coach of the Year at the Women in Football awards – after giving birth during the season.
Chambers took just two weeks off mid-campaign to give birth to her first child – daughter Harley Summer.
And her growing reputation in the game has now been recognised by Women In Football, a network of professional women working in and around the football industry.
Chambers fought off competition from two other shortlisted candidates – Chelsea Ladies manager Emma Hayes and England coach Mo Marley – to win her award at the presentation ceremony in London on Tuesday night.
“I’m over the moon to win this award,” beamed Chambers. “Thank you to everyone who has supported me this season and to everyone that voted.”
When asked what it takes to succeed in the industry, she added: “Work hard, push yourself and mentor others.”
Chambers guided Reading FC Women into Women’s Super League 1 and although they struggled last season, they did enough to retain their top-flight status for another year.
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