Julie Hemsley
Julie Hemsley is a seasoned soccer professional with over two decades of experience in coaching, player development, and club leadership. Currently serving as the Director of Coaching & Club Development at Hobe Sound Soccer Club, Julie brings a deep passion for the game and a lifelong commitment to fostering talent on and off the field. Her expertise spans team coaching, leadership development, and organizational growth, with a focus on youth engagement and the positive impact of sports on young lives.
Julie began her journey in the world of soccer as a young girl playing street games, eventually working her way up from a sports shop employee at 16 to team manager, coach, and later club owner. She made history as the first woman on the FA Council and played a pivotal role in advancing women's football, including managing England’s team during the 1995 Women's World Cup. Julie is also a dedicated advocate for inclusive sports programs like the TOPSoccer Program, empowering young athletes with disabilities to participate and thrive in the sport.
Known for her motivational leadership style, Julie is committed to promoting proper training practices, encouraging others to do their best, and creating supportive environments for athletes and coaches alike. She values mentorship, continuous learning, and community-building, always aiming to raise awareness of the many benefits soccer brings to individuals and communities. Her legacy continues to inspire the next generation of players and coaches across the U.S. and beyond.
• Whitehawk School
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the mentorship and example set by Julie, who played a pivotal role in shaping my path. She started out as a young girl playing sports with the boys and working at a sports shop by age 16. Over time, she became the manager, then the owner, gaining deep knowledge of the sports industry. Her journey—from coaching women’s football to managing England’s team in the 1995 World Cup, and becoming the first woman on the FA Council—inspired me to believe that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to “listen before you speak.” It’s simple but powerful—taking the time to understand others' perspectives has shaped the way I lead and collaborate. I've been fortunate to receive honors like the Helen Watson Award, the Sun Times Sportswoman Award, the Women's Football Award, and the Women in Sports Award in 1995. Outside of work, I’m passionate about live sports, concerts, and spending quality time with my family—they keep me grounded and inspired.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the industry is simple: love what you do and stay motivated. Passion will carry you through the challenges, and motivation will push you to keep growing, learning, and showing up—especially on the hard days. Believe in your value, stay curious, and never underestimate what you bring to the table.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are mentorship, motivation, and passion. I believe in helping young people find confidence in themselves, especially through sports, which teaches discipline, teamwork, and resilience. Encouraging others to truly love what they do is at the heart of everything I strive for—because when you’re passionate, success naturally follows.