Kate Longhurst – WSL Record Holder

Kate Longhurst is one of the most prominent names in women’s domestic football. Over more than a decade in the Women’s Super League, she earned the distinction of becoming the league’s all-time appearance record holder, reaching 182 matches in England’s premier division.

Her career in top-flight football began in 2009 when she joined Watford as a 20-year-old midfielder. From the outset, Kate demonstrated the work ethic and tactical intelligence that would define her career. She quickly established herself as a reliable presence in midfield, capable of influencing both the defensive and attacking phases of the game.

A move to Chelsea followed, where one of her standout moments came in the 2012 FA Cup Final. In the 101st minute, Kate scored the Blues’ second goal in a dramatic and memorable occasion. Delivering in extra time on such a stage reflects her ability to perform under pressure, a theme that runs throughout her career.

Title Success with Liverpool

In 2013, Kate made a significant move to Liverpool, a decision that would lead to back-to-back Women’s Super League titles in 2013 and 2014. Winning consecutive league championships demands consistency, discipline and a strong team culture. Kate played a key role during this period of success and went on to spend five years at the club, making 68 appearances.

Her time at Liverpool strengthened her understanding of what it takes to build and sustain a winning environment. Competing at the highest level week after week shaped her leadership style and her approach to preparation, teamwork and accountability.

West Ham United and Historic Milestones

In 2018, Kate joined her beloved West Ham United the club she had supported since childhood. That same season, The Hammers entered the Women’s Super League, and Kate wrote herself into the club’s history books by scoring West Ham’s first-ever goal in the division.

It was a landmark moment in a campaign that saw the East London side reach the Women’s FA Cup Final. Kate’s experience proved vital as the team adapted to the demands of top-flight football.

Her five-year stint at West Ham came to an end in 2023. In her final appearance for The Hammers, she equalled the league’s all-time appearance record in her 182nd WSL match, a fitting milestone for a player who had given so much to the competition.

Leadership at Charlton and Nottingham Forest

In July 2023, Charlton Athletic announced the signing of Kate Longhurst as co-captain. During that season, The Addicks narrowly missed out on promotion to the Women’s Super League by a single point. Kate’s leadership both on and off the pitch played a central role in driving standards and maintaining belief throughout a demanding campaign.

She later moved to Nottingham Forest in the Northern Premier Division, continuing to influence the game with her experience and professionalism.

From Player to Assistant Coach

In 2025, Kate announced her retirement from playing. Her departure from the pitch marked the end of an era, yet her connection to the game remained strong. Later that year, her former club Nottingham Forest appointed her as Assistant Coach.

Transitioning from player to coach requires a new perspective, fresh communication skills and the ability to guide others rather than lead from the centre of the pitch. Kate’s journey into coaching reflects her deep understanding of football and her passion for developing the next generation.

Book Kate Longhurst for Your Event

Booking Kate Longhurst for your event means gaining insight from a record-breaking professional who has experienced football from every angle title-winning campaigns, historic milestones, near promotions and the shift into coaching.

Her keynote topics include:

• Building resilience across a long professional career

• Performing under pressure in defining moments

• Leadership in elite team environments

• Transitioning from player to coach

• Driving standards and culture within a squad

Kate speaks with honesty and clarity about the realities of professional sport. She shares the lessons learned from 182 Women’s Super League appearances, back-to-back league titles, FA Cup finals and leadership roles across multiple clubs.

For organisations seeking a speaker who embodies commitment, adaptability and team spirit, Kate Longhurst delivers powerful reflections grounded in real experience.

Book Kate Longhurst for your event and inspire your audience with the story of a player who helped shape the modern era of the Women’s Super League and continues to influence the game from the sidelines.