Lead Academy Performance Coach (U9-16)

Is responsible for the wider physical performance strategy across the FP and YDP, together with performance support for select YDP age-groups. It is both a coaching and leadership position, requiring combined experience as an applied practitioner and in leading a team of performance coaches to implement physical performance strategies. The postholder works in collaboration with the HoP, Lead Academy Physiotherapist, Lead Academy Strength and Conditioning Coach and Lead Academy Performance Coach (PDP) to identify innovative practice and develop the programme.

• Assist the 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 YDP readiness to train.
• In collaboration with the 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 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 the HoP.
• Lead on collecting, tracking and reporting of growth and maturation data.

• Minimum of 3 years' experience working with elite athletes, specifically aged 9-16.
• Combined experience as an applied practitioner and leading a team of performance coaches to implement physical performance strategies.
• 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.

• Experience in both applied sport science and strength and conditioning in a youth development programme.
• 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.