ABOUT THE ROLE:
The AFLW Physical Performance Manager is responsible for the design, delivery and continuous evolution of the physical preparation program for the AFLW playing list at Richmond Football Club.
Working within the club’s integrated High-Performance model, the role ensures athletes are physically prepared to meet the demands of elite Australian Football, optimising strength, speed, conditioning, durability and resilience across all phases of the AFLW calendar.
The role requires expertise in elite Strength & Conditioning practice, with a strong understanding of the unique physiological, biomechanical and developmental considerations of female elite and emerging footballers.
The AFLW Physical Performance Manager will work collaboratively with coaching, medical and performance staff to maximise player availability, robustness and match performance, while aligning physical preparation with Richmond Football Club’s football philosophy and values.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Lead the design, delivery and ongoing evolution of the AFLW physical performance program across pre-season, in-season and transition phases.
- Develop and deliver elite, individualised Strength & Conditioning programs to players targeting strength, power, speed, conditioning, durability and collision resilience.
- Ensure players are physically prepared for the running, contact and repeat-effort demands of elite AFLW competition through gym and on-field delivery.
- Oversee athlete monitoring and load management systems, using GPS, wellness, strength and readiness data to inform evidence-based decision making.
- Collaborate closely with coaching, medical and performance staff to optimise player availability, performance and recovery.
- Lead injury prevention, robustness and return-to-performance strategies in partnership with physiotherapists and medical staff.
- Align physical preparation with the AFLW game model, training design, football philosophy and club values.
- Provide leadership in the physical development and education of female athletes, supporting transitions from talent pathways into elite football.
- Lead, mentor and develop Strength & Conditioning staff and contribute to the strategic direction of the AFLW High Performance program.
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR:
- ASCA Level 3 Strength & Conditioning Coach accreditation (or working towards).
- Relevant tertiary qualification in Exercise Science, Human Movement, Sports Science or equivalent (post graduate qualifications desirable).
- Demonstrated management experience in elite or high-performance sport, ideally within Australian Football.
- Proven expertise in Strength & Conditioning program design and delivery for elite team sport athletes.
- Experience working with elite female or pre-elite footballers.
- Strong knowledge of periodised scheduling, athlete monitoring systems, load management and performance testing protocols.
- Ability to lead within a multi-disciplinary high-performance environment.
- Excellent understanding of professional relationships and boundaries.
- Strong leadership and communication skills.
- Ability to build trust and influence across athletes, coaches and staff.
- High standards of professionalism and accountability.
- A collaborative, athlete-first approach to performance.
- Commitment to continuous improvement and evidence-based practice.
ABOUT US:
Richmond Football Club is one of the largest clubs in the Australian Football League, proudly rooted in our rich history and tradition. As we honour our past, we’re focused on building a Strong & Bold future – both on and off the field– through living our purpose of Belonging, Thriving and Winning.
We understand the power of sport to connect people, and at the heart of the Club’s purpose is being involved with our community. At Richmond, culture is paramount, and the Club is committed to developing its people in a supportive environment. Belonging, Thriving and Winning is not just about connecting with fans and members, but about staff, players and coaches connecting with each other with humour and care, through storytelling and authenticity, to build genuine relationships.
WHY WORK FOR US:
- Award-Winning Culture: Join an organisation that is an Australian HR Employer of Choice finalist and a Flexible Work Champion.
- Flexibility #: Enjoy a flexible work environment with options like flexible hours, work-from-home options, a relaxed dress code and the ability to observe public holidays that align with your cultural beliefs.
- Inclusive & Belonging: We are deeply committed to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, ensuring that everyone feels valued and respected, no matter their background or abilities
- Work-Life Balance: We believe in a ‘people first’ culture, where your personal and professional life can thrive together.
- Growth & Development: Your growth is our priority with professional development opportunities tailored to suit your goals.
- Wellbeing & Fun: We work hard but know how to have fun, fostering a high-performance, caring culture that values holistic wellbeing.
- Community Connection: Make a positive impact in the wider community and engage with our charity partners by supporting the Alannah and Madeline Foundation or get involved in one of our community programs across Korin Gamadji or the Bachar Houli Foundation.
- Perks & Benefits: Enjoy money can’t buy experiences, a range of perks, including discounts through our sponsors!
Click here to view our Employee Value Proposition (EVP) to find out why you should work at our Club!
OUR COMMITMENT TO THE SAFETY AND WELLBEING OF CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE:
The Richmond Football Club is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all children and young people. We exclusively hire individuals committed to fostering a child safe culture, irrespective of their role, and it is essential that all our staff understand their responsibility in relation to child safety. Individuals will require pre-employment checks, including a valid Working with Children Check for this role.
