Academy Performance Coach

Reporting to the Head of Academy Sports Performance, this role is responsible for the physical development of Academy players in the 13-15 age groups. Using a data-informed and research-driven approach, the postholder designs and delivers innovative programming to optimise athletic performance, enhance movement quality and support long-term player progression. The role requires close collaboration with technical and medical staff to ensure individualised training plans, effective load management and alignment with the club's performance model.

• Lead strength and conditioning coaching of assigned players in alignment with the academy Athletic Development Framework.
• Develop and lead an on-field movement programme including position-specific speed, agility and change of direction fundamentals.
• Manage and implement physical testing protocols for assigned age groups, in line with the academy testing structure.
• Play an active part in the collection, analysis and feedback of growth and maturation data with relevant age groups.
• Manage load monitoring data to provide collaborative feedback to staff and players regarding performance, training, recovery and injury prevention.
• Maintain accurate records of data collected, such as training loads and performance metrics.
• Stay current with research in the area of athletic development to ensure best practices are applied.
• Develop a data-informed approach to enhancing performance and athlete management.
• Be a creative and outside-the-box thinker when developing content for delivery.

• Bachelors degree from an accredited college or university in Exercise Science or a related field.
• Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certification.
• CPR certification.
• Interest in and knowledge of soccer.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to communicate effectively to key stakeholders and build trust and relationships with players and staff.

• Previous experience of data visualisation tools such as Power BI is an advantage.
• Previous experience working as part of a multi-disciplinary sports department is preferred.