The IRFU would like to invite applications for the position of Head Academy Strength & Conditioning Coach, Leinster Rugby.

Reporting to the Head of Fitness at Leinster Rugby and the IRFU, the Head Academy S&C Coach will:

  • Manage the S&C development and progression of academy players for the professional game according to Individual Performance Plans as agreed by the IRFU HP Manager & Leinster Academy Manager;
  • Ensure effective delivery of S&C support for the Leinster Academy players;
  • Oversee the delivery of fitness testing according to the IRFU test protocols and timetable for the Leinster Academy;
  • Contribute to the overall performance of the Leinster Fitness department through alignment, effective S&C programming and delivery.

The successful candidate will have:
 
Essential:

  • A recognised degree or Higher National Diploma in Physical Education, Human Movement or Sports Science or equivalent;
  • A recognised Professional strength and conditioning certification;
  • A minimum of five years’ strength and conditioning experience in professional rugby or high performance sport environment;
  • A verifiable record of programme design and delivery of physical development programmes for adolescent, adult rugby players and or athletes;
  • An understanding of training science and data management and the application of these to current strength and conditioning practices in high performance sport;
  • Practical coaching experience across all the elements of high performance strength and conditioning;
  • The ability to work within a team and coordinate both full-time and part-time strength and conditioning colleagues;
  • Effective time management and the proven ability to work independently;
  • The ability to interface effectively with people at all levels and the competence to manage, motivate and develop relationships;
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills;
  • Excellent Computer literacy skills;
  • The ability to realise and lead the national and provincial vision.

Desirable:

  • A post graduate degree in a sport or exercise science related area;
  • A verifiable record of delivering strength and conditioning support and programme leadership for a high performance professional rugby team as a full-time staff member;
  • Published research in the area of performance science, strength and conditioning or a related performance area;
  • Recognised First Aid and CPR certification.

General responsibility include:

  • Design, deliver and coordinate the Leinster Academy strength and conditioning programmes.
  • Work with other professional staff including Academy Manager, Academy Physiotherapist and Performance Nutritionist to drive individual performance outcomes.
  • Ensure alignment of Academy programme to the needs of the senior team in Leinster and IRFU standards to ensure player KPI achievement.
  • Coordinate the Leinster Academy annual fitness testing according to IRFU protocols and testing schedule.
  • Capture, store and manage all fitness test and training data and ensure that it is reviewed and informs strength and conditioning support for Leinster Academy Players.
  • Responsible for the design and delivery of all fitness, recovery and game preparation elements for the Leinster Academy.
  • Portray a competent and professional image of the Leinster Rugby and the IRFU on behalf of the Fitness department
  • Appropriate coordination and leadership of Academy strength and conditioning and rehabilitation staff.
  • Develop alignment and coordination in the strength and conditioning programmes between the Leinster Academy, Sub-Academy and National Talent Programme through effective communication and relationship building.
  • Deliver strength and conditioning support to the senior professional programme as and when required.

 
Specific responsibilities include:

  • Manage the implementation of the Academy strength and conditioning programmes as agreed in their Individual Performance Plans.
  • Systematically review and report performance profiles for all Academy players.
  • Devise effective individualised periodised plans for each Academy player specific to their development needs.
  • Manage the training load information, the daily monitoring process and communicate any issues relating to player welfare to the relevant rugby, physiotherapy, medical, nutrition and or strength and conditioning staff.
  • Manage and communicate the Academy training schedule to all players and related staff.
  • Liaise regularly with the Sub-Academy S&C staff to ensure appropriate programme alignment and prescription to the needs of the Academy and senior programme.
  • Attend and contribute to workshops, in-service meetings and professional development courses/workshops and other supported workshops as directed by Head of Fitness, Leinster.
  • Assist in the delivery of coach and player education programmes.

TO APPLY:

This full time position is being offered on a two year fixed-term contract basis. The position is based at Leinster Rugby, UCD Belfield, Dublin.

To apply for the above position, please email your CV to Eoin Ward, HR Generalist at recruitment@irfu.ie.

The closing date for applications is strictly Friday, 12th February 2016 at 13:00.
 
IMPORTANT:

Interviews for this position will take place on Monday, 22nd February 2016.
 
The IRFU is an equal opportunities employer.