Phoebe Schecter: From Homesick to History-Making NFL Coach

Phoebe Schecter’s journey from homesick expat to Britain’s first female NFL Coach is nothing short of inspirational. The 34-year-old American, who initially joined a flag football club in Manchester to find some home comfort, has now made history in the world of American football.

After impressing at the Manchester trials, Phoebe became a key player in the GB Women’s American Football team, eventually becoming captain and leading them to the final of the 2015 European Championships. In 2018, she broke barriers by landing a coaching position with the NFL’s Buffalo Bills, making her the first female coach in Britain to reach such heights in the sport.

Reflecting on her time with the Bills, Phoebe described the experience as intense and motivating, highlighting the dedication and drive required to succeed in a male-dominated environment. Despite the challenges, she thrived and has since become a prominent figure in the world of American football, working as an NFL analyst for Sky Sports and spearheading the creation of the first all-girls flag football league in Manchester.

The launch of the league, which took place on Wednesday, saw 100 girls aged 12-14 from across the region come together to compete in a series of games over five weeks. With the support of partners like Nike and the NFL, Phoebe aims to empower young girls through sport, providing them with opportunities she wished she had at their age.

As the girls don their official team kits and take to the field, Phoebe’s journey serves as a reminder of the power of determination and passion in breaking down barriers and paving the way for future generations of female athletes. Her dedication to the sport and commitment to empowering young girls through flag football is truly commendable, and her impact on the world of American football in Britain is undeniable.