U21 Athletic Development Coach

The U21 Athletic Development Coach will be responsible for planning, delivering and reviewing the athletic development programme for the Academy’s U21 age group, while supporting the delivery of high-quality athletic development provision across the Youth Development Phase (YDP), U13–U16. The role will also require flexibility to provide support to First Team staff and players as and when required.

Working as part of the Academy’s multidisciplinary performance team, the post holder will help develop players who are physically prepared to meet the demands of professional football. The role will contribute to the long-term development of Academy players through an age-appropriate, individualised and evidence-informed approach to physical development.

This person will work closely with the Academy coaching, medical, performance analysis and recruitment departments to ensure athletic development is fully integrated into the Academy programme and aligned with the Club’s playing philosophy and player development model.

Experience

• Experience working within an Elite Academy or professional football environment.
• Experience of delivering sports science provision.
• Experience working within the Professional Development Phase and/or professional players.
• Experience using GPS technology and athlete monitoring systems.
• Experience delivering gym and field-based physical development programmes.
• Experience managing return-to-play progressions.

• Elite Player Performance Plan (EPPP).
• Physical development of youth footballers and young professional players.
• Long-term athletic development principles.
• Periodisation in elite football.
• Load monitoring and athlete management systems.
• Injury prevention strategies.
• Growth and maturation in adolescent athletes. 

• Ability to build positive relationships with young players.
• Strong communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Data analysis and reporting skills.
• Strong organisational and record-keeping skills.
• Ability to influence coaches through evidence-based practice.
• Ability to manage competing priorities in a demanding Academy environment
• IT proficiency, including Microsoft Office and sports science software. 

• Professional and approachable.
• High standards and attention to detail.
• Collaborative team player.
• Adaptable and proactive.
• Resilient under pressure.
• Committed to continuous professional development.
• Passionate about developing young players.