The Gold Coast SUNS is seeking a highly motivated and experienced individual for the role of Academy Head Coach - Female Pathways. The successful candidate will play a vital role in leading the development of talented young female footballers, primarily aged between 15 and 19, in alignment with the Gold Coast SUNS talent development philosophy.

The primary responsibility of the Academy Head Coach - Female Pathways is to strategically plan, oversee, and guide a comprehensive player pathway program. This program is designed to foster the development and progression of well-prepared young athletes, addressing various facets such as physical, emotional, social, gameplay, and skill aspects. The ultimate goal is to prepare these athletes for AFLW football and facilitate a smooth transition for those entering State League or community football competitions after completing their talent pathway experience.

Key Responsibilities:

• Ensure a safe, inclusive, respectful, and enjoyable environment for all program participants, fostering individual player development over team success.
• Implement Individual Player Development Plans to tailor coaching strategies for each athlete.
• Integrate programs between U18W, U16W, North Queensland, and Zone Hubs, aligning with the Club’s AFLW program.
• Monitor individual player game exposure to mitigate the risk of overuse injuries and fatigue.
• Provide regular player feedback, vision edits, game/stats analysis, and reporting, adhering to AFL Talent Pathway standards using platforms such as Teamworks, Hudl, and Sportscode.
• Identify and develop athletes from diverse backgrounds, creating a culturally safe high-performance environment.
• Lead the implementation of individual development programs for highly talented AFLW draft prospects, collaborating closely with key AFLW staff.
• Establish effective systems and processes for deep engagement with staff, players, and families.
• Oversee the identification, appointment, and development of key Academy staff in collaboration with the Academy Manager and Director of Coaching.

Essential Qualifications / Experience / Skills:

• Minimum Level 2 AFL Coaching Accreditation or ability to obtain.
• Previous successful coaching experience with elite young athletes.
• Demonstrated personal initiative and ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Excellent communication (verbal and written), interpersonal, and presentation skills.
• Proficient IT skills in vision and presentation of coaching strategies.
• Operational knowledge/skills of player performance analysis software and vision editing programs.
• Ability to teach the latest coaching methods and software programs aligned with the Gold Coast SUNS Talent Development Philosophy.
• Sound technical knowledge and training methods, game styles, and strategies suitable for the group of players in line with the Club’s AFLW Program.
• Exposure to talented player programs and strong understanding of talented footballer identification and development theories and practices.
• Demonstrated leadership skills, ability to formulate and communicate sequential training and game plans, and motivate and nurture young talented athletes.
• Capacity to develop and sustain productive relationships with all stakeholders.
• Demonstrated experience in managing multiple projects simultaneously while achieving high results.
• Current Queensland Driver License and a current Working with Children Check.

If you are passionate about developing the next generation of female football talent and possess the skills and experience required, we invite you to apply.

Please note, this is a full-time, contract role.