Laura Kaminski: A Trailblazer in Women’s Football Coaching
In the ever-evolving landscape of women’s football, Laura Kaminski stands out as a name synonymous with dedication, innovation, and success. With more than a decade of coaching experience across clubs, academies, and national set-ups, Kaminski has shaped the journeys of countless players while carving her own reputation as a respected football coach. Her career trajectory, which has spanned from grassroots academies to the Women’s Super League, reflects both her tactical acumen and her commitment to the development of women’s football in England.
Early Life and Coaching Foundations
Although much of Laura Kaminski’s personal background remains private, her career reflects an individual driven by passion and determination. Beginning her professional coaching journey in the early 2010s, Kaminski quickly made her mark in both men’s and women’s football environments.
Her academic pathway mirrored her ambitions. She studied Sports Coaching and Development at the University of Brighton from 2011 to 2014, graduating with first-class honours. During this time, she also earned the Dean’s Head of School Outstanding Achievement Award, a clear sign of her exceptional work ethic and ability to inspire those around her. She later completed a Diploma in Education and Training at Canterbury Christ Church University between 2016 and 2018, further strengthening her teaching and mentoring skills.
Coaching Career
Brighton & Hove Albion: The Building Blocks (2011–2016)
Kaminski began her coaching career with Brighton & Hove Albion, working in multiple roles that gave her invaluable exposure. She served as Head Coach, Girls’ Academy Coordinator, and Centre of Excellence Under-15 Assistant Coach. Her work extended beyond women’s football as she also led the Invitation Academy for boys at the Under-12 level.
This five-year period was crucial in developing her understanding of long-term player development and talent identification. It also cemented her reputation as a coach who could balance technical training with holistic player growth.
University of Brighton: Coaching at Academic Level (2011–2014)
In parallel, she held the role of Head Women’s Football Coach at the University of Brighton. Here, Kaminski oversaw training, match organisation, long- and short-term athlete development plans, and even sponsorship management. It was a role that demanded leadership both on and off the pitch, and she thrived by combining her coaching knowledge with broader organisational responsibilities.
Arsenal: First Taste of Elite Football (2011–2012)
Her journey also included a spell at Arsenal as a Football Coach and Analyst. Working with the Under-15 Girls’ Centre of Excellence, Kaminski was exposed to one of the most professional environments in the women’s game. This experience further sharpened her tactical awareness and analytical skills.
Expanding Horizons
Watford FC: WSL2 Development and First Team Coaching (2016)
In 2016, Kaminski joined Watford Football Club as WSL2 Ladies Development Head Coach and First Team Assistant. Though her time at the club was short, it provided first-hand experience of working within the second tier of the women’s league system.
Queens Park Rangers: Coaching and Education Combined (2016–2018)
At QPR, she combined her footballing duties with education, serving as both Head Football Coach and BTEC Lecturer. She managed the QPR Boys’ College Academy while also working as a sports lecturer. This balance of academic and athletic responsibilities highlighted her versatility and dedication to youth development.
Chelsea FC: Head Coach and Sports Lecturer (2018–2019)
Kaminski’s progression continued at Chelsea, where she worked as Head Football Coach and Sports Lecturer. This role further underlined her ability to deliver high-level coaching while also contributing to player education and holistic development.
The FA Roles
FA Coach Mentor (2015–2019)
Her association with the Football Association began in 2015 as an FA Coach Mentor. In this role, she supported coaches across Sussex, providing guidance, resources, and direct mentoring.
FA Women’s and Girls’ Talent ID (2015–2018)
Kaminski also worked in Talent Identification for the FA, focusing on players in the Under-15 to Under-19 age groups. Her eye for emerging talent and her understanding of development pathways proved invaluable.
FA Elite Coach (WU19s) (2019–2020)
In 2019, she stepped into a prestigious role as FA Elite Coach with the England Women’s Under-19s. This gave her international exposure, working with the next generation of Lionesses and contributing to the broader success of English women’s football.
Spurs and Charlton: Climbing the Ladder
Tottenham Hotspur Women (2018–2021)
Kaminski’s time at Tottenham was particularly significant. She was U21 Women’s Head Coach while also serving as First Team Assistant Coach. Across three years, she contributed to the club’s steady progress, refining her tactical philosophies and strengthening her credentials in elite coaching.
Charlton Athletic Women (2021–2023)
In September 2021, Kaminski joined Charlton Athletic Women as Assistant Coach. She spent nearly two years at the club, helping to build competitive squads in the FA Women’s Championship.
Crystal Palace: Making History (2023–2025)
Appointment and Success
July 2023 marked a defining moment in Kaminski’s career when she was appointed Head Coach of Crystal Palace Women. In her first season, she guided the club to its greatest achievement: promotion to the Women’s Super League. It was a historic milestone, marking Palace’s debut at the top tier of women’s football.
Managerial Recognition
Her impact was swiftly recognised. She earned the Women’s Championship Manager of the Month award twice during the 2023–24 season, in September and February. At the end of the campaign, she was named the League Managers Association Women’s Championship Manager of the Season.
Departure
Despite her remarkable promotion success, the following season proved challenging. By February 2025, Palace had struggled in the WSL, collecting only six points from their first 14 matches. On 28 February 2025, the club announced that Kaminski had left her role as Head Coach. While the results were difficult, her legacy at Palace remained intact: she had been the architect of their rise into the top flight.
Education and Professional Development
-
University of Brighton – Sports Coaching and Development (2011–2014), graduating with first-class honours.
-
Canterbury Christ Church University – Diploma in Education and Training (2016–2018).
-
Coaching Qualifications – UEFA B Licence (2010) and UEFA Pro Licence (2018).
-
Awards – FA Youth Award (2012).
Personal Life
Laura Kaminski maintains a private personal life. While her professional journey is well-documented, there is no public information available regarding her age, marital status, or family. She is known instead for letting her work speak for itself, focusing attention on her achievements in football and education rather than personal matters.
Legacy and Impact
What defines Laura Kaminski is not just her results on the pitch, but her broader influence on the sport. She has worked at every level of the women’s game, from grassroots academies and university teams to top-flight clubs and national youth sides. Her career reflects the growth of women’s football in England and illustrates the pathways available for ambitious coaches.
She has consistently championed player development, tactical intelligence, and holistic growth, proving herself not only as a manager of teams but also as a mentor of individuals.
Conclusion
Laura Kaminski is a coach whose name has become etched into the modern history of English women’s football. From Brighton to Crystal Palace, from grassroots to the national stage, her career has been marked by resilience, intelligence, and an unwavering commitment to the game. Her achievements, particularly leading Crystal Palace Women into the WSL, highlight a career that continues to inspire coaches and players alike.
