Top 4 managers to watch across Tier 3!

Lee Burch – Rugby Borough Women

Photography by R_bmedia

Lee Burch’s career in the women’s game has seen him guide manage clubs at the very hughes level, including a stint in Women’s Super League (WSL) with Yeovil Town Ladies, and with his work at Rugby Borough Women, he has truly cemented himself as one of the most promising managers in Tier 3. Now in the midst of his third year in charge, Burch has fostered an excellent club environment.

With a UEFA A Licence and a longstanding career that includes stints at Millwall and London Bees, Burch’s wealth of experience speaks for itself. Under his leadership, Rugby Borough had an incredible cup run this season culminating in a tense FA Cup 5th round tie against WSL side Liverpool, which resulted in a narrow defeat in the closing stages. This highly impressive feat speaks volumes of his ability to prepare his side to compete at the highest level.

As we draw to the end of this league campaign, Rugby Borough sit 5th in the Northern Division Premier, with a strong league record of 9 wins, 4 draws, and 4 defeats. One highlight of this league campaign would doubtless be Rugby’s 3-2 comeback against Burnley FC Women after having been 2-0 down at half time. This incredible result is testament to the resilience and belief that Burch has instilled within his players.

Looking to the future, Burch’s and the club’s ambition is clear: he wants to take Rugby Borough to the Women’s Championship. His focus on creating a positive team atmosphere and instilling belief in his players has laid a solid foundation for the future.

Siobhan Hodgetts-Still – West Bromwich Albion Women

Photography by Liam Sheasby

For Siobhan Hodgetts-Still, managing West Bromwich Albion Women is more than just a job—it’s a dream come true. A club legend, Siobhan played for the Baggies between 2006 and 2014 as a midfieldeer and after hanging up her playing boots, she stayed at the club holding various roles such as a coordinator the “Albion Foundation”.she was appointed the manager of the women’s team in June 2023. Then in February 2025, in what was a massive milestone for both Hodgetts-Still and the club, she was appointed as the clubs first ever full-time manager.

Under her leadership, West Brom sit in a comfortable 7th place in the Premier Division North, well clear of the relegation zone. One of her standout achievements this season would have to include her side’s impressive Women’s FA Cup run which saw them rewarded with a 4th round tie against WSL giants Manchester United Women. While they may have been suffered a defeat at the hands of higher league opponents, it still remained an incredible opportunity for the club to showcase their skills.

Siobhan’s experience as a player and coach which gives her the ability to form real connections with her players, combined with her UEFA A Licence, makes her the perfect candidate to continue to develop West Bromwich Albion Women into a side to be reckoned with. Make sure to watch her side as they continue to develop within the Northern Premier Division.

James Thomas – Gwalia United Women

Photography by Ben Brain Photography

After his appointment of manager of Gwalia United Women in January 2025, James Thomas is doubtless a manager to watch in Tier 3.. Taking over the only Welsh team in the FAWNL—Thomas brings to the club a wealth of both international and domestic coaching experience.

Before being appointed manager of Gwalia United, Thomas was the women’s academy manager at Bristol City Women FC, and he also boasts an impressive stint working with the Wales Women’s national team. His international experience also extends beyond the UK, and he was has also held the position of the head coach for Trinidad and Tobago Women. With a UEFA A Licence and this incredible variation of experiences under his belt, Thomas has all the credentials necessary to make an immediate impact in this league.

Gwalia United are currently sitting in 8th place in the Southern Premier Division, consistent with their performance in the 23/24 campaign. However, with a manager of Thomas’s calibre now in charge, there is a growing sense of optimism surrounding the club’s future. His experience and expertise will undoubtedly help Gwalia United continue to grow and evolve in a highly competitive league where no points are guaranteed.

Natalie Lawrence – Lewes Women

Photography by Imray's Snaps

After Lewes Women’s relegation from the Championship last season, the club needed a stable managerial figure to steady the ship. Enter Natalie Lawrence, who stepped up from her role as assistant manager to take the role head coach at the beginning of the 2024/25 season. As a coach she has a vast array international experience, with jobs that span the USA, New Zealand, and Canada. A highlight of this international career would be her role as coach for the New Zealand Women’s national team at the 2024 Olympics in France.

With a UEFA A Licence and a vast array of experience under her belt, Lawrence brings with her, a fresh outlook to the team. Despite the challenges that come with a a relegation, Lewes have. The team currently sits in 6th place in the league, a testament to their solid league performance in this campaign. Among their most impressive results is a 2-2 draw against league leaders Hashtag United Women.

Lewes fans have reason to be excited about the future under Lawrence’s guidance. Her focus on rebuilding the squad and establishing a strong team ethos could see Lewes return to where they belong in Women’s Championship sooner rather than later.