Job Description:
As a key member of our team, you will be responsible for leading the development of talented young male footballers and other coaches in a well-balanced high-performance environment.
The role involves planning, managing, and leading a talented player pathway program that supports the development and progression of well-prepared young athletes ready for AFL and AFLW football as well as those players that transition into State League and/or community football competitions after their talent pathway experience.
A key objective of the role is to ensure optimal individual development of the male athletes who participate in the Tasmanian Talent Pathway.
Key Responsibilities:
* Lead and maintain a safe, inclusive, respectful, and enjoyable environment for all those involved in the program – staff and athletes alike.
* Focus on individual player development with provision of Individual Player Development Plans on Smartabase.
* Provide an integrated program between girls and boys with head coaches regularly cross-pollinating at training sessions, knowledge sharing, and improvement feedback in both programs.
* Facilitate regular player feedback, vision edits, game/stats analysis, and reporting in line with AFL Talent Pathway standards using platforms such as Smartabase, Hudl, and Sportscode.
* Identify and develop athletes from diverse backgrounds by creating a culturally safe high-performance environment.
* Lead coaching development in the region, focusing on community and school coaches with support from the AFL Coaching team.
* Design and implement innovative coaching methods to enhance player development, fundamentals, and decision-making.
* Work with Wellbeing Coordinators to support players' welfare and manage their wellness.
* Ensure compliance with safeguarding policies (e.g., WWCC).
* Support the integration of boys' and girls' programs.
* Build connections with local clubs, leagues, and schools to support the talent program.
* Stay current on best practices in talent development and identify future coaching potential within the region.
Requirements:
* Minimum Level 2 AFL Coaching Accreditation or ability to obtain
* Experience in working with young people
* Demonstrated personal initiative and ability to work effectively in a team environment
* Well-developed communication (verbal and written), interpersonal, and presentation skills
* Excellent IT skills when working with vision and presentation of coaching strategies
* Operational knowledge/skills of applications and relevant player performance analysis software and vision editing programs such as Champion Data, Sportscode, Hudl, and Smartabase
* Ability to teach the latest coaching methods including IT and software programs that assist in this process
* A coaching philosophy, ethics, and attitude that aligns with the Victorian Talent Pathway philosophy and purpose of the Coates Talent League
* Sound technical knowledge and training methods suitable for the group of players, in-line with AFL/AFLW Club Development Programs
* Exposure to talented player programs and a strong understanding of talent identification and development theories
* Demonstrated leadership skills and ability to formulate and communicate sequential training and game plans, and to motivate and nurture young athletes
* Capacity to develop and sustain productive relationships with all stakeholders
* Ability to influence stakeholders to work together to achieve objectives
* Capacity to manage multiple priorities and programs simultaneously
* Current Driver License and a current Working with Children Check
Desired Qualifications:
* Previous successful coaching experience with talented and/or elite athletes
* Demonstrated knowledge of talent development programs in football or other sports
Our Culture:
We strive to create a workplace culture that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. We believe that everyone deserves a chance to thrive, regardless of their background or identity. We are committed to providing equal opportunities for all employees and promoting a culture of respect, empathy, and understanding.