The primary role of the Physical Development Coordinator - Academy is to work closely with the Academy Manager and Academy Head Coach to lead and deliver an elite physical development environment for Fortescue Academy athletes.

Working closely with the Western Force Head of Physical Performance to ensure ‘best practice’ is implemented to maximise individual player development in alignment with the organisational performance and development philosophy.

Delivery will be integrated closely with the Men’s Super Rugby physical performance programme and includes leading the Western Force Academy games, and Under 20’s and Under 19’s campaigns.

Key Duties

• Planning and delivering strength and conditioning sessions to align with the Long Term Athlete Development model ensuring each individual has an Individual Development Plan for their physical development.
• Maintain all relevant physical and performance data (including the use of the Smartabase, TeamBuildr, and other required platforms).
• Assist with design of rehabilitation programs in the event of injury in consultation with the relevant medical staff, in particular the Academy Physiotherapist.
• Liaising and building a strong relationship with WF Head of Performance, as well as performance support, operations, coaching and medical staff.
• Conducting assessments in line with Rugby Australia protocols to provide and individualise S&C coaching to achieve physical development and performance goals.
• Leadership and supervision of a practical student placements
• Due to the nature of this role, the successful candidate will be required to work some weekends and evenings and travelling when required as part of this employment arrangement.

Technical Skills and Knowledge

• Ability to create S&C programs to achieve individual physical development and performance goals within the Western Force performance and development philosophy.
• Understanding unique nature of creating of a high-performance environment and culture within the Western Australia Rugby landscape.
• Understanding of the unique geographical challenges of Western Australia and performance travel to and from East Coast locations.
• Strong relationships within both the community and development levels of Rugby in WA along with the professional team programmes, with the specific skillsets to bridge this pathway gap.
• Demonstrates good knowledge and a commitment to CPE in elite sports strength and conditioning.
• Understands the positional demands of Rugby Union and has specific experience in similar roles at age grade, development, academy and senior professional levels (or similar code, ideally contact sport).
• Bachelor’s degree &/or Master of Science with majors in S&C (or similar).
• Relevant industry accreditation/qualification (ASCA, CSCS, ESSA etc)

Behavioural Competencies

• Well organised and planned in detail with the ability to lead and deliver unsupervised.
• Proactive management of individual time and workload.
• Stays up to date with current relevant research, looks for learning and CPE opportunities.
• Ability to lead and co-ordinate others while also delivering on a daily basis.

Communication and Teamwork

• Ability to thrive as part of a collaborative team.
• Open to seeking and taking on feedback while being flexible with planning when required.
• Excellent communication skills with broad range of personnel and personalities.
• Approachable and willing to collaborate with all coaches and support staff.
• Works efficiently and effectively with the team to achieve collective goals.

Decision Making and Judgement

• Demonstrates the ability to make timely and effective decisions and when to appropriately escalate significant concerns as appropriate.
• Seeks help and second opinions when warranted.
• Remains professional, situationally aware and discreet at all times.