Carla Ward’s Journey: A Resilient Return to Football Management
The landscape of women’s football is continuously evolving, with leaders like Carla Ward at the forefront. After stepping down from her role as Aston Villa manager, Ward has taken significant time to reflect on her career, her passion for the game, and the delicate balance of motherhood. Now, she is poised for a return to management, eager to bring her newfound insights and energy back to the pitch.
Rekindling the Coaching Passion
Ward’s decision to step away from Aston Villa in May was influenced by her desire to prioritize her personal life, particularly her five-year-old daughter, Hartley. Despite having a year left on her contract, she felt it was essential to assess her commitment to football management. “When I stepped away, I always knew that this would be a break to work out whether I had a passion and an energy to stay in the game,” Ward explained. This self-reflection led her to an important realization: the itch to return was stronger than ever.
After spending quality time with Hartley and engaging in personal pursuits, Ward recognized that her love for football remained intact. “In the last month or so, I’ve started to get an itch,” she said. “I would be lying if I said I didn’t want to get back into management. Of course I do.” This sentiment illustrates the ongoing struggle many coaches face when balancing personal life with professional aspirations.
Strengthened by Experience
During her time away, Ward took the opportunity to evaluate her management style. She reached out for feedback from former players and colleagues, seeking constructive criticism to enhance her approach. This proactive stance allowed her to identify areas for improvement, which she believes will make her a better manager moving forward. “When I go back, I think I can be stronger and better than I ever was as a manager,” Ward stated. “Taking a break allows you to sit back and reflect.”
Her commitment to professional growth is supported by research indicating that leaders who engage in self-reflection and solicit feedback tend to perform better in their roles. A study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology found that leaders who reflect on their experiences and learn from them are more effective in managing teams and driving performance. Ward’s willingness to embrace this model exemplifies her dedication to personal and professional development.
Balancing Motherhood and Management
Ward’s experience highlights a significant challenge facing many working mothers in high-demand roles: the struggle to balance career ambitions with family responsibilities. She acknowledges this struggle, stating, “It’s not as easy to work in another country but the WSL or international football would suit us in our personal lives.” Her decision to focus on opportunities within the Women’s Super League or international football reflects a strategic approach to finding a balance that accommodates her family life.
Moreover, her close bond with Hartley has been a catalyst for Ward’s growth during her time away. She described how spending time with her daughter allowed her to reconnect with her role as a mother, participating in school runs and extracurricular activities. “I became a mum again all of a sudden,” she reflected. This renewed connection has provided her with a fresh perspective on both life and work, reinforcing the importance of family support in high-pressure careers.
Insights for Future Leaders
Ward’s journey is not just a personal narrative; it offers valuable lessons for aspiring leaders in sports and beyond. Her ability to step back, reflect, and seek feedback underscores the importance of self-awareness and adaptability in leadership. The willingness to embrace change and prioritize personal well-being can lead to greater effectiveness in professional roles.
As she prepares to return to management, Ward’s story serves as an inspiration for both men and women in sports. It illustrates that taking time to reflect and recharge can lead to renewed passion and strength, ultimately enhancing one’s leadership capabilities. “It’s been a really powerful six or seven months,” she noted, encapsulating the transformative potential of time away from the game.
Carla Ward is ready to embrace the next chapter of her career, equipped with fresh insights and a renewed commitment to both her family and the game she loves. As she looks to the future, her journey exemplifies resilience, adaptability, and the profound impact of self-reflection in leadership. Football awaits her return, and with it, the promise of new achievements and enduring passion.