ABOUT THE CLUB
As the pioneers of Australian Football, the Melbourne Football Club holds a unique and celebrated place in sporting history. For 168 years, we have shaped the game - writing its rules, leading its evolution, and carrying the distinction of being the oldest professional sporting club in the world.
Our Demon Spirit is grounded in the values that define us: Trust, Respect, Unity and Excellence. These values guide our people, our decisions, and our ambitions. We are proud of where we’ve come from - and even more excited about where we’re going.
ABOUT THE ROLE
An exciting and rare opportunity has arisen for a passionate and driven AFLW Strength & Conditioning Coach to join our High Performance team and play a pivotal role in shaping the physical performance and development of our AFLW playing group.
In this role, you will lead the delivery of high-quality strength and conditioning programs, building player strength, power, speed and resilience while supporting injury prevention and maximising on-field performance. This is an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the continued growth and success of our AFLW program.
This is a maximum-term, part-time position commencing in February 2027. The role will average approximately 20 hours per week.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Reporting directly to the AFLW High Performance Manager key areas of responsibilities include:
- Design and implement resistance training programs to enhance strength, power, endurance, agility, and speed in AFLW athletes.
- Aid in the development and execution of individualised running programs tailored to position-specific requirements and player profiles.
- Lead agility and speed training sessions to improve movement efficiency and acceleration mechanics.
- Collaborate with the AFLW High Performance team, including physiotherapists, sports scientists, and coaches, to optimise training loads, and player readiness.
- Monitor and assess athlete performance data, using evidence-based methods to adjust training programs accordingly.
- Assist in injury prevention and rehabilitation protocols, ensuring a safe return to play for injured athletes.
- Provide technical coaching on running mechanics and change-of-direction efficiency.
- Contribute to match preparation through warm-ups, activation drills, and conditioning strategies.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date training records and reports to track athlete progression.
- Educate players on best practices in recovery, nutrition, and load management to maximise performance outcomes.
Given the nature of the Club's operations, flexibility to work outside standard business hours, including match days, events and other Club-related activities is required.
THE IDEAL CANDIDATE
You will have a tertiary qualification in Exercise Science, Strength & Conditioning or a related field, alongside ASCA Level 2 Accreditation or equivalent. You will have demonstrated experience working within an elite or high-performance sporting environment, ideally within AFL or another team sport.
You will have strong technical knowledge of running mechanics, agility and speed development, alongside a sound understanding of sports science principles, including training load monitoring and recovery strategies.
A collaborative approach, exceptional communication and athlete engagement skills are essential, along with current First Aid and CPR certifications. You will thrive in a high-performance environment and be passionate about helping athletes reach their full potential.
WHY JOIN THE CLUB
This role offers the opportunity to join a values-driven Club with a strong commitment to excellence, sustainable performance, and the wellbeing of its people. We are dedicated to fostering a workplace where our people feel valued, supported and empowered to grow and perform at their best. In return, you'll enjoy:
- Opportunities for ongoing learning, growth and career development.
- Access to unique AFL and AFLW experiences and Club events.
- Access to a range of sponsor-related offers and discounts
- Access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for you and your immediate family, along with a range of health and wellbeing initiatives, including free flu vaccinations, corporate health insurance discounts, and complimentary healthy snacks and fresh fruit.
