Lead Academy Performance Coach (U9-16)

As Lead Academy Performance Coach (U9-U16) you will be responsible for both the wider physical performance strategy in the FP and YDP and performance support for select YDP age-groups.

This is both a coaching and leadership position that requires you to have combined experience as an applied practitioner and leading a team of performance coaches to implement physical performance strategies.

Preferable, you will also have experience in both applied sport science and strength and conditioning in a youth development programme.

The role will also work in collaboration with the HoP, Lead Academy Physiotherapist, Lead Academy Strength and Conditioning Coach and Lead Academy Performance Coach (PDP), to identify innovative practice to develop the programme.

• Assist HoP with the production, implementation, and monitoring of the Performance Department Plan in line with the Academy Performance Plan and EPPP requirements.
• Provide industry leading performance support to select YDP age-groups.
• Implement a clear physical development strategy within the FP and YDP that is integrated with the Performance Department Plan and aligned with the wider MDT.
• Oversee the design, delivery and tracking of YDP strength and conditioning.
• Manage the monitoring and reporting of the YDP readiness to train.
• In collaboration with HoP set, monitor and review Academy Performance Department targets.
• Oversee the design, delivery and tracking of YDP GPS data and reporting.
• Facilitate regular dialogue within staff delivering the physical performance strategy to the FP and YDP.
• Liaise with the YDP MDT to effectively periodise and individual player schedules at the macro, meso and microcycle and play.
• Collaborate with the MDT to create player profiles and play an active role in player review cycles.
• Lead on internal and external physical performance testing within the YDP.
• Ensure effective communication and planning between the Lead Academy Performance Coach (PDP) and U18 Performance staff on player transition of incoming scholars.
• Assist in performance support with the PDP.
• Ensure all FP and YDP performance staff understand and can clearly convey the department philosophy, plans and targets as directed by HoP.
• Lead on collecting, tracking and reporting of growth and maturation data.
• Build good relationships with senior management, heads of department and wider academy staff to help facilitate consolidated working practices across the academy.
• Liaise with medical staff to effectively design and deliver late-stage rehab in the YDP.
• Under direction from the HoP, contribute to the design and execution of research projects to improve sport science practice.
• Liaise with PDP staff on transition player programming and development.
• Support, where required, Academy events including inductions and workshops.
• Lead on recruitment for FP and YDP performance team
• Assist HoP with Performance Department administrative duties. • Lead on long-term CPD for FP and YDP performance staff
• Uphold the highest Safeguarding standards.

Essential Requirements

• Minimum of 3 years' experience working with elite athletes, specifically aged 9-16.
• CASES accreditation.
• UKSCA accreditation.
• Experience working within a multidisciplinary team.
• BSc degree in a relevant subject area.
• Relevant professional body accreditation.
• Knowledge of professional development strategies.
• FA Safeguarding certification.
• Emergency First Aid certification (or equivalent).
• Honest, humble and hard-working approach.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Respectful and professional in all interactions.
• Reliable with a strong work ethic.
• Well organised with effective time management skills.
• Demonstrable leadership skills.

Desirable Requirements

• Minimum of 1 year's experience working with elite athletes aged 9-16 within a Category 1 Academy.
• Experience leading a physical development programme.
• MSc degree in a relevant subject area.
• Ability to make effective decisions under pressure.
• Demonstrated resilience and ability to deal positively with adversity.
• Willingness to accept responsibility and accountability for actions and decisions.

We expect to close applications on Friday 6th November, but if we receive a high level of interest, we may close the vacancy sooner. To avoid disappointment, please submit your application at the earliest opportunity.