Rugby Australia and the NSW Waratahs Academy are seeking an experienced full-time Athletic Performance Coach to support the physical preparation program for identified talented players between the ages of 14-20+.

The role will have responsibility for developing athletes across all areas of physical development and preparation, with a specific focus on Long Term Athletic Development (LTAD), as well as driving best practice in nutrition, recovery and injury prevention.

Accountabilities

Planning

• Develop an annual periodised physical preparation program for the NSW Waratahs Academy and its players, in line with Rugby Australia’s national pathways athletic development plan and supported by the Head of Athletic Performance - National Pathways.
• Within the context of the periodised plan, and working with other staff as required, develop and implement individual player development plans that result in enhanced performance.
• Implement and assess integrated screening programs and injury prevention programs for all Academy players in collaboration with the medical staff.
• Develop and deliver all player reports for player and coach feedback using the national data management system to capture and manage data and information.

Coaching

• Plan, execute and review all physical performance sessions.
• Review training and provide feedback and recommendations to the Academy Head Coach and other Academy coaches with respect to planned versus executed load.
• Report to the Head of Athletic Performance - National Pathways on information pertaining to the physical status and wellbeing of individual players.
• Plan and execute individual and team preparation (warm up and recovery) for all sessions.
• Plan and execute individual rehabilitation sessions working closely with the NSW Waratahs Academy and Rugby Australia medical team.
• Coordinate programming pertaining to player rehabilitation and return to play programs.
• Monitor player loads via GPS and other proven and available technology and data (training/playing).
• Regularly assess and report the compliance and effectiveness of individual and team recovery programs.
• Assist in delivering Rugby Australia’s national physical testing program and analyse/report results to the Academy Head Coach and the Head of Athletic Performance - National Pathways via the national data management system.
• Monitor and report on best practice conditioning, injury rehabilitation, nutrition and other sports science techniques from international and domestic high-performance sports programs, including any such internal or external research results.

Capabilities, Experience & Qualification Requirements

• Demonstrate personal commitment to the pursuit of excellence.
• Strong skills in athletic strength and power development.
• Knowledge of data reporting technology (including but not limited to GPS and Athlete Management Systems).
• Elite Rugby or high-performance sport program experience.
• Strong association with elite rugby or sport.
• Strong computer and associated program knowledge and skills, e.g. Word, Excel (spreadsheets), Outlook.
• Proven quality program leadership and management skills.
• Ability to align the physical requirements of the game with the vision of the Academy Head Coach and the national player development framework.
• High level of technical and coaching knowledge.
• Ability to develop a positive performance culture.
• Willingness to challenge, be challenged and listen.
• Proven program judgement and quality decision making capability.
• Ability and willingness to travel.
• Degree qualified in exercise science (or a similar degree). Post graduate qualification is preferred.
• Industry standard qualifications with a minimum ASCA Level 2 Pro Scheme qualification is preferred.