Character: Cam Brady-Stowe

Cam, you're a highly successful manager in the women’s game. You’ve built trophy-winning teams in Norway, the United States and Spain. Now you’re taking on a new challenge with the Pevantsea Beachcombers in the English league.

Tell us how you first got into women’s football. You were a player at one time?

Ha, yes that was back in the day. I played for a couple of successful teams in London. We’re talking early 90s. I was good at spotting weaknesses in opponents and I realised people were listening to my views. And we were winning games! So I took the formal courses to become a coach. There was never any money in it back then though. Just the glory.

What took you to Norway?

Money! An opportunity came up to manage on a semi-professional basis. I wanted to see if I could make a living in this sport that I enjoyed so much.

And you did.

Yes, each time I’ve moved on, I’ve climbed another rung of the ladder. I’m very grateful to the people over the years who believed in me and gave me chances.

What achievement has given you the most satisfaction?

I’m never satisfied. Always looking for the next challenge.

Who’s the best player you’ve worked with?

Hah! I don’t need to boost anyone’s ego. There’s quite enough preening in our sport already.

Ok, outside of football, what’s your biggest regret?

Umm… well, I got kicked out of the navy when I was a teenager. Not sure I’ll ever come to terms with that one.

Really! Why, what happened?

Got caught being too friendly with some visiting sailors in a pub on shore leave. In those days, you couldn’t be gay and in the Forces. So that was that. The next day I heard my name on the ship’s Tanoy. Instant dismissal.

Wow. That must've been devastating. We have come a long way.

Yes, I’m looking forward to an official apology from the government one day. Compensation would never make up for what happened though. Family especially – you’ve let them down in the worst way imaginable. There’s no compensation for that.

Although if that bad experience hadn’t happened perhaps you wouldn’t have got into football?

To be honest, I’d swap that – trophies and all – for the military career I should have had.

I see.

Don’t get me wrong, I love football and my role in it. The places it’s taken me, the people I’ve met. Priceless. No point dwelling on what might have been. Make the best of what life shows you.

Indeed! You’re also a distinguished yachtswoman?

I was first put in a sail boat on my own when I was 6 or 7 years old. I’ve been winning races since my teens. That’s something I’m very grateful to football for. Giving me enough income so that I can waste it on boats and mooring fees.

Ha ha!

Ok, last question. What advice would you give to a young girl hoping for a professional career?

Don’t hope – work! Look after your body. Train hard and don’t cut corners. Then get a good agent!

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