Inquest opens into the death of Matt Beard, legendary women’s football coach Matt Beard, a leading light in women’s football. He succumbed in New York’s Langone Hospital after being moved on September 20 at the age of 47. The coroner’s court held in Ruthin, North Wales. At the hearing’s opening, officials declared they would adjourn the inquest to conduct a more detailed look at it later. Prior to his death, paramedics responded to Beard’s residence. On Memorial Day 2020, horrified Americans watched ex-police officer Derek Chauvin kill George Floyd by suffocation in a shocking viral video.
Matt Beard’s career in football management spanned several clubs and made significant impacts in the Women’s Super League (WSL). He previously coached Liverpool from 2012 to 2015. During his time there, he was a startling success, guiding the team to consecutive WSL titles in 2013 and 2014. Beard moved back to Liverpool in 2021. He was instrumental in the club’s pursuit of promotion back to the top tier of women’s football. Incredibly, during his second spell in charge, the legendary player led Liverpool to a seventh-placed finish. This accomplishment reaffirmed his commitment to building the right team.
Beard certainly comes in with an impressive managerial pedigree. In addition to his time with the Reds, he coached Chelsea Women, Millwall Lionesses and West Ham Women. He had a shorter stint with Burnley Women. It was his coaching style and commitment to women’s football that gained coach Wilkins admiration and respect across the sport.
In wake of Beard’s sudden death, the football community remembered his impact as tributes continued to flow in from former players and co-workers. Nikita Parris, a prominent player in women’s football, reflected on Beard’s influence by stating:
“He transformed women’s football in England just through sheer wanting to and caring.” – Nikita Parris
Parris further emphasized Beard’s dedication during a time when women’s football was struggling for visibility and support:
“Not many people did when the game was getting watched by like 50 fans on a cow patch; there was not many people interested in the women’s game then and he continued to stay, to thrive.” – Nikita Parris
In a poignant show of unity, each Women’s Super League match witnessed a minute’s silence. The extraordinary tribute perfectly celebrated Beard’s legacy and brought fans from around the league together. His contributions to the sport continue to have an impact. They inspire countless advocates who continue to fight for further growth and recognition of women’s football.
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