Shelley Kerr was recognised for her services to Scottish sport at the weekend, winning the Inspirational Leader trophy at the Scottish Women in Sport Awards.
Highlighting the successes and contributions of women to all sport across Scotland, Shelley's glittering career in football was celebrated at the 12th edition of the ceremony at the Raddison Blu Hotel in Glasgow.
Following a highly successful playing career that brought 59 caps and the captain's armband for the Scotland Women's National Team, Shelley began to cut her management teeth with Kilmarnock in 2004.
After coaching several sides, including Arsenal, Shelley took the reigns of the University of Stirling's men's football team; a groundbreaking appointment that saw her become the first woman to manage a men's side in UK history.
Guiding Stirling to consistent top five finishes in the Lowland League, and a spot in the British Universities Champions final in 2015, Shelley answered her country's call in 2019 as Head Coach of Scotland.
Her reign produced several highlights; including guiding the SWNT to qualification for the 2019 Women's World Cup finals in France.
In November 2024, Shelley joined Hearts as Technical Development Manager; the team she's supported all her life, leading on the development of players and coaches across the male academy set-up at Oriam.
Speaking to the Official Hearts Website, Shelley said: "Scottish Women In Sport have been up and running now for over 10 years and they recognise all sports, which I really like.
"It was humbling when you hear everyone's stories and how challenging it's sometimes been for a variety of women in sport. Whether it's athletes or coaches that have come through when there wasn't a lot of resource there, or no visible role models.
"I'm deeply grateful for the award, and I'd like to say well done to all the winners on the night for their hard work and dedication to their sport."
