Objectives To explore the exposure, perspectives and experiences of heading in both women and girls who play football, and coaches of women and girls’ football. Design A convergent parallel mixed methods cross-sectional study. Method Quantitative data were collected via an online questionnaire completed by 211 players and 45 coaches. Qualitative data were obtained through semi-structured interviews with 17 players and 12 coaches. Descriptive statistics and reflexive thematic analysis were used to analyse the data. Results Most players reported performing 1–10 headers per week, yet 50% had never received formal heading training. Similarly, 71% of coaches had not received formal education on coaching heading, despite 49% reporting they coach it. Players were more likely to report fear and pain with heading as well as a previous concussion, if they had not been coached on heading technique. Both players and coaches expressed interest in receiving heading technique training. Key factors identified for safe and effective heading included body positioning, neck and core strength, and tracking the ball. Players reported fear of injury and lack of confidence, often linked to poor technique and limited training. Barriers to coaching heading cited by coaches included: safety concerns, lack of resources, and environmental constraints. Conclusion Heading remains a common and essential skill in women's football, yet formal training is lacking. There is a clear need for accessible, evidence-informed resources and coaching frameworks to support safe and effective heading skill development. Football organisations should prioritise gender-responsive strategies to improve coaching practices and player confidence in heading.
Peek et al. (2026) studied this question.