Emma Hayes, the legendary manager of the Chelsea Women’s team, was visibly moved as her players paid a heartfelt tribute to her late father, Richard Parker Hayes, who passed away at the age of 82. During a Women’s Super League (WSL) match against Tottenham at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea players presented their manager with a framed shirt bearing the number 82 and the word ‘Papa.’
The touching scenes unfolded in front of nearly 15,000 fans in west London. Chelsea went on to secure a 2-1 victory in their WSL opener under Hayes’s guidance, adding to her impressive record of six league titles and eight domestic trophies.
Hayes had expressed her emotions in her pre-match program notes, saying, “Life just won’t be the same without him, and he’s a big part of who I am. I hope to continue to do him proud every day with the work I’m doing here.”
Fans on social media reacted with messages of support and admiration for Emma Hayes, recognizing her as an inspiration to women and young girls in football. Hayes, a multiple award-winning coach, was named The Best FIFA Football Coach in 2021 and is renowned for her contributions to women’s football.
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Emotional scenes at full time as Chelsea come together to support Emma Hayes following her father’s passing. 💙 pic.twitter.com/ZJadvxHT6T
— Sky Sports WSL (@SkySportsWSL) October 1, 2023
Chelsea W performance and stats
Chelsea W
Chelsea W is currently 5th in the Women’s Super League with 3 points.
It has a positive goal difference after scoring 2 goals and conceding 1.​
Chelsea W will play the next match in Women’s Super League against Manchester City W on Sunday 8th of October in Manchester.​
