‘Female players face a difficult balancing act’ – Helen Ward, Watford FC Women

Former Wales international striker, Helen Ward, enjoyed a storied playing career, with 105 caps and 44 goals for her country.  At club level, Helen’s career spanned 16 years, taking in Watford, Arsenal, Chelsea and Reading, before her retirement in 2023.

Today, Helen is Head of Women’s Football at Watford FC, where the team is currently challenging for promotion from the Premier Division of the FA Women’s National League.

During her career, Helen witnessed a huge transformation in the women’s game, with its professional status now lauded and opportunities for players which never previously existed.  But, as she told The Players Foundation, challenges remain: 

‘There’s a vast difference in the salaries, so what’s your financial back-up if you sustain a big injury? Whereas in the men’s game, they have that little bit of financial freedom, for some women, they may need to find a new job by the end of the month or they’re in trouble. So, I do think there’s a difficult balancing act for women and girls.’

Helen acknowledges that most women footballers will need second careers when they finish playing: ‘The question is, have you done any work towards that during the time that you were playing? Have you been able to study or learn a new skill or vocation? And how does that translate when you exit the game and need to forge a new life in many ways?’

As well as focussing on their education, Helen believes players need as much guidance as possible, as they prepare for life beyond football:

‘At Watford, we put on workshops offering financial and careers advice, as well as supporting players’ mental health. We obviously have limited time and resources but it’s something I’m very passionate about.  We treat the players as people, before players, and I think that’s really important.’

Applications are open until the end of the month for the Student Living Expense Grant, for those who meet the Foundation’s criteria. You can find out more and apply here Home – The Players Foundation