Debonis becomes league’s first female boss

NICKY Debonis has taken over as manager of Bishop’s Cleeve’s Development team.

The 20-year-old becomes the first female boss in the 119-year history of the Cheltenham Football League.

Debonis has been part of Cleeve’s first team coaching team under boss Steve Cleal, working at Southern and Hellenic League level.

She now takes on her first senior managerial role with the Mitres’ third team, taking over from Chris Gough.

“I live, breathe and work football and I’m extremely proud to have been a female coach in the Southern League,” Debonis said.

“I feel like I have accomplished a large amount by becoming involved within coaching men’s football at this level and I wish to continue to progress.

“It’s important for more women to get involved within football as it provides positive role models encouraging girls to become involved in sport. “There shouldn’t be such a large divide between women and men’s football and there should be more of a crossover with it being seen the norm for females to coach men’s teams and males to coach women’s teams.” Debonis’ new team finished 10th in Division Four of the Cheltenham League in 2018/19.

She has been involved in football since starting out as a player at the age of four.

She signed for Bishop’s Cleeve Colts at the age of eight, remaining with the club through until the Under-16s, also playing for Woodmancote primary and Cleeve secondary school teams.

She then played for Bishop’s Cleeve Ladies for three seasons and combined that with playing for Hartpury College, but she has always had a keen interest in coaching.

During her course she was required to complete a week of work experience and Bishop’s Cleeve first team were happy to give her the opportunity.

Cleal said that Debonis has been a valued member of his team.

“When Nicky asked to do work experience I wanted to give her the opportunity as I know her family well and they have always been supportive of me in my early years,” Cleal said.

“I was pleasantly surprised at how adaptable Nicky was as a coach and continues to be.

“She has been a valuable member of the team and continuing to develop as a coach. She is ambitious and hopes to forge a career in the game, which I’m sure she will.”

Debonis is due to complete her UEFA B Licence coaching qualification in August.

Cleeve’s A (reserve) team, who finished sixth in Cheltenham League Division One last season, could be invited to step up to Northern Senior League Division Two following Welland’s withdrawal from Division One. Welland are joining Midland Football League Division Three.