Company Name:
Sunderland
Location:
Sunderland
Vacancy Type:
Permanent
Position:
Academy
Advertising End Date:
27 May 2025

About The Role

About Us:
Sunderland AFC is more than just a football club; we are a proud community institution that embodies the spirit of our city. 
At the heart of our club is “The Relentless Obsession”—an unwavering passion which fuels our pursuit of success, inspires our players, and ignites the spirit of our supporters. We embrace every challenge with determination, striving to play the beautiful game with flair and tenacity.
At SAFC, we believe in the power of football to unite and inspire. Our commitment extends beyond the pitch as we strive to make a positive impact through various community initiatives, empowering individuals and celebrating diversity.
Join us on our journey as we continue to build on our legacy, fuelled by “The Relentless Obsession” for greatness. 

About the Team:
Our Coaching Team are passionate about developing talent at all levels, from our youngest Academy members to the first team. Our holistic coaching philosophy emphasises technical skills, tactical awareness, mental resilience, and sportsmanship. 
We prioritise open communication with players and their families, providing regular updates on training progress and development opportunities. Join us in elevating the standard of coaching at Sunderland AFC, where every player is encouraged to grow, excel, and love the game!
 
The Opportunity:
To assist with the planning, delivery, and evaluation of Player Development Program (PDP) training sessions and matches. 
To support the PDP Lead in designing the football pathway for all players within the PDP phase, utilising coaching expertise to foster the development of each player in this phase.

The responsibilities include planning, creating, and evaluating coaching sessions as scheduled in the weekly plan. Additionally, you will plan and deliver training sessions alongside the Lead coaches, ensuring every player has the best opportunity to learn and develop within the phase. You will also plan and deliver matchday sessions in collaboration with the Lead coaches to support player development. Independently sourcing and reviewing video clips of individual players in relation to their specific learning objectives is another key task.
You will provide regular health checks and updates on coaching cell operations during the 9/18/27/36/45-week coaching meetings. Giving impactful feedback to players to support their progression is essential, and you will contribute to the relevant formal player review processes. You will also support PDP trialists who enter the coaching cell, offering evaluation and feedback during the signing and exit process.
Maintaining the Football Intelligence Platform (FIP) and ensuring it is up-to-date is a responsibility, as well as ensuring the PDP requirements on the Teamworks platform are completed. Collaboration with parents is also important to create a unified approach to player development. Recognising potential complaint situations and taking appropriate steps to resolve them is key to maintaining a positive environment. Finally, you will play an active and contributory role within the MDT team for the PDP age groups.

About The Candidate

What We Ask For:
The role involves assisting with the U18/21 player programme, ensuring consistent, up-to-date communication with the Academy Manager and Head of Coaching regarding the players' progress. You will align the coaches and the coaching programme with the club’s coaching and playing philosophy. Additionally, you will assist with team planning and theming for each mesocycle and collaborate with PDP staff on training support and team selections.
Your responsibilities include ensuring U18/21 players are fully prepared for the demands of the professional game, including potential first-team and loan experiences. You will connect with both PDP and YDP staff to coordinate training support and team composition. Observing and prioritising individual player development during training and fixtures will be essential, as will supporting PDP coaches with coaching delivery to enhance best practices.
Monitoring and evaluating all players within the U18/21 age group for succession planning is a key part of the role. You will strive to create a best-in-class environment and participate in all relevant meetings. Additionally, identifying areas for development and working closely with the Academy Senior Management Team and Multi-Disciplinary teams to ensure performance standards are met and improved will be crucial. You will attend and contribute to all necessary meetings as part of your role.

About The Club

Why Join Us at SAFC:
At Sunderland AFC, you’re not just becoming part of a football club; you’re entering a vibrant community fuelled by passion and pride. Our commitment to making a difference means you’ll engage with local initiatives that truly matter, allowing you to leave a positive impact right here at home.
You’ll thrive in an exciting, dynamic atmosphere where every day is a new adventure filled with the thrill of football and teamwork. We believe in nurturing talent, so you’ll have access to training programs and mentorship opportunities.
Our diverse and inclusive culture celebrates individuality, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued. You’ll be part of a team that unites in the spirit of collaboration and respect, making your work environment both rewarding and inspiring.
As standard, we also offer the following benefits:
- 22 days leave (in addition to public holidays), increasing to 27 days after 5 years’ service
- Death in Service 
- Pension Salary Exchange 
- Complimentary Season Tickets
- Enhanced Paternity, Maternity and Adoption Leave
- Employee Assistant Programs
- Various Discount Packages including Club Store
- Free Parking
Additional benefits may be available dependent on job role and experience.

Equal Opportunities:
Sunderland AFC is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to a policy of treating all employees and job applicants equally. Our aim is that all colleagues should be able to work in an environment free from discrimination, harassment and bullying.

Safeguarding Children & Vulnerable Adults:
Sunderland AFC recognises that the safeguarding and protection of children and vulnerable adults is of paramount importance within the organisation. Sunderland AFC owes a duty of care to safeguard all children and vulnerable adults involved in activities organised by the football club. Sunderland AFC will ensure that safety and protection is given to all children and vulnerable adults involved in activities through adherence to the Safeguarding guidelines adopted by the Club.

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