After an electric tournament and an unforgettable final, the Lionesses have done it – England are European champions. Again. They did it the hard way, with all three knockout games going to extra time, but through passion, belief and unity on the pitch, they’ve captured the hearts of a nation and written themselves into sporting history.
The Women’s Euros have once again shown how engaging and unifying sport can be. With standout performances and a brilliant team spirit, players like Chloe Kelly, Leah Williamson and Hannah Hampton have become role models for the next generation, not to mention potential guest speakers in the coming years.
At JLA, we have the privilege of working with many outstanding female sports stars – now fantastic motivational speakers – who are just as inspiring off the field as they were on it, motivating, challenging and energising their audiences across the board. Here are just a few to consider…
From Olympic champions to World Cup winners – meet the women motivating from the stage.
Jill Scott
Former England international Jill Scott enjoyed an illustrious 18-year career with clubs including Manchester City, Everton, Sunderland and Aston Villa. She bowed out on a high, winning Euro 2022 with the Lionesses in her final match, finishing as England’s second-highest capped player.
Sarina Wiegman
After leading the Lionesses to another historic victory, Sarina Wiegman has further cemented her place as FIFA’s most decorated female football manager, and one of the most successful coaches in the history of the game. Her calm authority, clear vision and inspiring leadership have earned her global recognition.
Ebony Rainford-Brent
Former England cricketer Ebony Rainford-Brent was the first black woman to play for England, helping retain the Ashes and win the World Cup and Twenty20 in one year. Now Test Match Special’s first female analyst and Director of Women’s Cricket at Surrey, she mentors players and management. Ebony encourages us to challenge ourselves and see things from a fresh perspective.
Ellen White
Former Lioness Ellen White is England Women’s all-time leading goal scorer, with a career that includes three FIFA Women’s World Cup tournaments. She won the Bronze Boot in France 2019 and was named England’s International Player of the Year three times.
Maggie Alphonsi
England Rugby World Cup winner Maggie Alphonsi was vice-captain of the national side, winning a record-breaking seven consecutive Six Nations titles and reaching two World Cup finals, lifting the trophy in one. In her speeches, she explores leadership, resilience and performing under pressure.
Kadeena Cox
Paralympian and cycling record holder Kadeena Cox made history by winning gold in two sports at the same games. After being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, she went on to win six medals across athletics and cycling in 2016 and 2020. Off the track, she champions diversity in sport and has appeared on I’m a Celebrity and Celebrity MasterChef.
Alex Scott
After captaining Arsenal and earning over 100 caps as a Lioness, Alex Scott is now one of the most recognisable and respected faces in sports broadcasting. A trailblazer both on and off the pitch, she made history as the first woman to commentate on men’s international and Premier League matches for the BBC and Sky.
Kate Richardson-Walsh
Hockey gold medallist and former captain Kate Richardson-Walsh is the most capped woman in British hockey history. As captain for over a decade, she led the team through major change and on to Olympic glory. In her talks, Kate shares powerful lessons on leadership, team culture and achieving the unexpected.
Rebecca Adlington
Olympic champion Rebecca Adlington made history in Beijing with gold in the 400m and 800m freestyle, the first British woman in 40 years to win Olympic swimming gold. Now retired, she champions swimming education and shares insights on focus, motivation and purpose.
For more insight into what any of the above speakers can bring to your next event or for other options on female sporting speakers to build on the Lionesses’ success, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us!