Carly Williams named on 2025 Football Black List | OneFootball

Brentford Women head coach Carly Williams has been honoured as part of the 2025 Football Black List, an award that celebrates influential Black figures and positive role models across British football.

Through her coaching and expertise within player care, Williams has played a pivotal role in shaping the women’s game, building on a career dedicated to expanding access and inspiring more women to get involved in football.

In her first season at the helm of the Bees, Williams has combined impressive on-pitch success with a broader commitment to the women’s game, continuing to influence its growth through a focus on development and accessibility for aspiring players.

Founded in 2008 by journalists Leon Mann and Rodney Hinds, the Football Black List highlights leaders from all areas of the game, with nominees put forward by the public before a panel featuring representatives from the Premier League, English Football League, Football Association, League Managers Association and Kick It Out finalise the list.

Williams’ recognition places her among figures making a meaningful impact both within football and beyond it.

“At first, I was a little bit taken aback. I didn't really think that it was possible to be on it two years running, but it's an absolute honour,” Williams said.

“I really enjoyed the experience last year and the exposure to some of the work that I've been doing over the years.

“This season, to be recognised again for the work that I've done in a new environment at Brentford is something I am so proud of.”

Williams joined the club in the summer of 2025 and has guided the team through a strong first campaign, balancing results on the pitch with the challenge of embedding a new culture and environment.

“For me, coming to Brentford, it's a club filled with good people and that first and foremost makes you feel welcome," she explained.

“I've had a lot of support and everyone plays a key part in not only ensuring the ladies are comfortable but also that I am settling in well. That support behind me has really allowed me to drive forward my own coaching career, but also help drive the first team forward to a performance-driven environment.

“The ambition of the club is something that really attracted me to coming here and that remains. We've had a very good first season in tier five. It's been a lot of change for the club, but hopefully it's been a positive change, and I've really enjoyed myself here so far.”

Williams’ journey into football has been far from traditional, making her recognition even more significant.

“Looking back to a young me playing on Hackney Marshes, I don't think I ever thought that this was a career path for me,” she said.

“I've come through an unconventional route: I was a radiographer in the NHS, then a science teacher, player care, as well as coaching, all at the same time.

“A full-time role in football wasn’t something that a young Carly would have ever thought was possible. The big thing for me is that my family have never put a glass ceiling above me and told me the sky's the limit.”

Her impact extends beyond results, with a strong emphasis on visibility, representation and supporting others along the pathway.

“Coming into the new role, it wasn't necessarily a thought process. For me, it's about being visible and helping others along the coaching pathway as well,” she added.

“It's a bit surreal to even think about it. I always want to help people and give people a leg up if I can, in terms of their journey, whether that's a player, whether that's working in football, or whether that's coaching.

“For me, it's always about giving my all and making sure that what I'm doing can be replicated. If that means me taking the first footsteps in a pathway that's never been taken before, I'm more than happy to do that.”

Williams is also passionate about creating inclusive environments and breaking down barriers within the game.

“I'm really proud of the diversity across the club and how we all support each other to drive each other forward,” she said.

“The club is very passionate about breaking down those barriers for players from diverse backgrounds or other hardships.

“That's really inspiring in itself to just keep pushing forward and making sure that we're opening doors and we are representing our local communities and beyond, and that Brentford is a great place and a safe place to come.”

Her commitment to supporting others is reflected in her work across the wider game, as well as within the club.

“I'm still a coach developer with the FA and I try and give back when I can into the grassroots and the game changers community in terms of inspiring the next generation,” she said.

“I always want to be an ear to listen to people as well - that can be so important. I've not had female coaches on my journey. It's only now in my career that I'm finding all these allies in the FA and at Brentford.

“In terms of the future, it's making sure that female coaches from diverse backgrounds continue to support each other and make every environment accessible.”

Reflecting on the recognition, Williams emphasised both pride and perspective as she continues to push forward.

“I'm extremely proud to be recognised for all the hard work we're doing here at Brentford, and I feel privileged to be heading that up and all that we've achieved this season.”