Erin’s leadership journey began at high school where she was a Young Ambassador (YA) which gave her the confidence to take on responsibility and represent young people’s voices.
From there, Erin’s interest in sport and leadership only grew and she joined the Young People’s Sport Panel (YPSP), a key step in her journey, providing opportunities to engage with decision makers and contribute to national conversations around equity, participation, and youth engagement.
Erin said:
“Programmes like the panel help at an early stage by giving young voices real influence in decision making, which can shift self-perception and open up future opportunities.”
On the YPSP, Erin gained experience in presenting to boards, shaping policy discussions, and working as part of a diverse team, all skills that she now uses when supporting clubs and leading national projects.
Coaching at Springburn Harriers has given Erin practical skills in mentoring, planning, and building relationships, which translate directly into managing staff and working with clubs today.
Erin was also involved with Fit for Girls as both a tutor and steering group member which she says gave her insight into gender equity and the importance of inclusive practice, which has shaped how she approaches programme design and volunteer development.
Leadership as a tool for change
Reflecting on her journey so far, Erin said, “These early opportunities built a strong foundation in advocacy, consultation, and collaboration, which have been invaluable in my role as National Club Manager with scottishathletics.”
She added, “They also gave me the belief that my perspective could add value in strategic spaces something I have carried into positions such as recently being appointed as a trustee on the board of the Homeless World Cup working alongside inspiring and powerful individuals to ultimately achieve our mission of a world without homelessness and to use football as a tool for change.”
“More broadly, these experiences helped me grow my resilience, adaptability, and confidence in my own leadership style, enabling me to take on more senior roles and contribute effectively at both operational and strategic levels.”
Women’s Sport Leadership Academy
From Sunday 7 to Friday 12 September, Erin travelled to the University of Chichester along with 36 delegates from 20 countries to attend the 2025 Women’s Sport Leadership Academy (WSLA) residential.
Established in 2014, the WSLA provides unique development opportunities for women leaders from around the world to step up, take the lead and make an impact. Each participant of the programme is identified as a future leader at senior management level by their organisation who also commit to supporting their employee after the programme.
Looking back on the experience, Erin said:
“WSLA gave me the time and tools to reflect on my leadership and refine how I work with others. I developed practical skills in having challenging conversations, giving constructive feedback, and listening effectively, all of which are directly relevant to my role managing staff and supporting clubs.”
The programme highlighted the importance of building networks, and Erin is confident she has gained a strong peer group of women leaders across the sector who she can learn from and share ideas with.
Erin emphasised how open conversations reinforced the need for ongoing support and early intervention, which can make a real difference in helping women to believe in themselves and step into leadership roles.
“It was an intense week, but one that built both confidence and self-awareness. Importantly, WSLA also created space to discuss the barriers women face in leadership, from confidence gaps to structural challenges.”
She added, “Over time, these programmes can change culture, ensuring that women’s leadership becomes the norm rather than the exception. For me, these programmes have been pivotal in shaping my journey and in reinforcing the importance of equity in leadership development.”
Advice to young leaders
Erin’s advice to young girls and women considering a career in sport is to take every opportunity! Through programmes like YA, YPSP, and FFG she has stepped out of her comfort zone to develop new skills and open doors.
Erin said:
“Leadership is not about having all the answers, it’s about listening, learning, and supporting others to succeed. Surround yourself with people who will encourage you, and don’t be afraid to put your hand up for roles that might feel like a stretch.”
Erin is a true believer that confidence builds through experience, and the more you practice, the more comfortable you become.
“Remember that your perspective has value, whether as a young woman, an athlete, a coach, or a volunteer. Sport needs diverse voices and leaders, and your contribution could inspire change that benefits not just you, but your community and the wider sporting system.”
