020 8914 8966
020 8914 8966
Rachel Yankey – Inducted into the English Football League Hall of Fame
Rachel Yankey OBE is one of the pioneering figures of women’s football, remembered as a prolific left-winger and trailblazer for the women’s game. With 129 England caps, she was the nation’s most capped player until 2014, and she represented Team GB at the London 2012 Olympics. Across a 20-year career, she played for clubs including Arsenal, Fulham and Birmingham, achieving domestic and European glory. An inspirational figure both on and off the pitch, Rachel is now a respected speaker on leadership, performance and the growth of women’s football.
Speaking Topics:
- The rise of women’s football
- Racism in football
- Leadership
- Peak performance
- Teamwork and motivation
- International football
Credentials and Impact
Rachel made her senior debut for Arsenal in 1996, winning multiple league and cup honours before gaining international recognition with spells at Laval Dynamites in Canada, Fulham Ladies and New Jersey Wildcats in the United States. At Fulham, she contributed to a historic treble, while at New Jersey, she helped secure the UCL W-League title. Returning to Arsenal in 2005, Rachel embarked on her most successful spell, scoring 43 goals in 151 appearances across 11 years. During this period, Arsenal dominated women’s football, winning 22 major trophies, including the UEFA Women’s Cup in 2007.
On the international stage, Rachel earned 129 England caps, captained her country, and became the first woman to surpass Peter Shilton’s long-standing national appearance record. After retiring in 2016, she transitioned into coaching, becoming Head Coach of London Bees in 2019. Her influence continues through her work, developing future talent and advocating for the women’s game.
Publications and Media
Rachel has been a visible presence in the media, appearing as a pundit and commentator across outlets such as BBC Sport and Sky Sports. She has also been featured in football development campaigns, including the BBC ‘Sport Academy Masterclass’ series, where she taught aspiring players technical skills. In addition to her broadcasting work, Rachel authored the children’s book ‘How to Be a Footballer and Other Sports Jobs’ in 2020, introducing young readers to careers in sport and inspiring the next generation to follow their dreams. Through both media and writing, she has raised the profile of women’s football while sharing her expertise and experiences at the highest level.
Why Book Rachel?
Rachel is booked as a football speaker for her ability to inspire audiences with her personal journey and the values that sustained her career. She shares honest reflections on breaking barriers in sport, the determination required to succeed in a male-dominated environment and the importance of seizing opportunities.
Known for her approachable style and natural charisma, Rachel engages audiences with lessons on resilience, adaptability and teamwork that extend far beyond football. She also speaks about the growth of women’s sport and the role of visibility in inspiring future generations. Blending humour with authenticity, Rachel creates an uplifting atmosphere that resonates with corporate groups, schools and community organisations alike, making her a standout choice for a wide variety of events.
To book Rachel to speak at your event, call SpeakOut on +44 (0) 20 8914 8966. Alternatively, complete our contact form to begin your enquiry.
