Relationship between female soccer players and their trainers nowadays in France

Abstract

In France, feminine soccer is becoming more and more mediatized and an important issue for the federal authorities. Historically, soccer practice has been marked by a masculine imprint, whether at the level of players or coaches (Knoppers, Anthonissen, 2003, Prudhomme-Poncet, 2002, H´eas et al., 2004). What about girls practicing in this androcentric environment (Nneme Abouna, Lacombe, 2003, H´eas, 2010)? Are there any specific feminine expectations from them? Do they express themselves? Are they heard? Does the manager impose expertise and soft skills in line with his many expectations from these players? This research work aims to understand better this situation nowadays in France. During interviews, players reported an inadequacy between their quests in terms of soccer performances and the behaviors and/or speeches of the trainers. Can we deduce, based on these experiences that the management of the feminine soccer teams needs to be adjusted in order to improve the players’ well-being and to optimize their performances?