tanya oxtoby

coach

Tanya Oxtoby, born in Wickham, Western Australia, is a distinguished football coach and former professional player, currently serving as the manager of the Northern Ireland women's national team. ​

Tanya’s football journey began at the age of eight in her hometown, where she played in a team coached by her father. She progressed through the ranks, playing as a centre-back for clubs such as Northern Redbacks, Northern NSW Pride, Western Waves—where she also served as captain—and Perth Glory in Australia's W-League. In February 2012, she signed with Doncaster Rovers Belles in the FA WSL and later that year joined Everton, where she concluded her playing career.  

Beyond her on-field accomplishments, Tanya is a UEFA Pro Licence coach and holds a degree in psychology, underscoring her commitment to the mental aspects of athletic performance. She is also the owner and director of Tanya Oxtoby Football Coaching, where she mentors female footballers and coaches. In December 2020, she announced her pregnancy and has since been an advocate for creating supportive environments that balance professional responsibilities with personal well-being.

Tanya Oxtoby's career reflects a profound dedication to football, characterised by her seamless transition from player to coach and her ongoing commitment to fostering growth and excellence within the sport.

Tanya worked as one of the lead pundits for Optus Sport at the 2023 Women’s World Cup in Australia. On her days off Tanya can be found hunting for good coffee, playing in the garden with her little boy Albie or reading him The Hungry Caterpillar.