🎯 Job Advert: Women’s U21 Physical Performance Coach (SAFC Women’s Football)
📍 Location: Academy of Light
📅 Employment Type: Permanent, Full Time
📌 Application Deadline: 26th May 2025

About Sunderland AFC

Sunderland AFC is more than just a football club – it’s the heartbeat of a proud city. We are driven by “The Relentless Obsession”, a philosophy that underpins everything we do. It reflects our passion for football, our determination to succeed, and our dedication to the community we represent.

We’re committed to excellence both on and off the pitch. Whether through elite football performance or impactful community initiatives, SAFC stands for unity, ambition, and inclusivity. Join us and become part of a legacy that celebrates the power of football to inspire and transform lives.

About the Women’s Football Team

At SAFC Women, we’re building a powerhouse in women’s football. Our team thrives on passion, discipline, and development. We’re committed to fostering a high-performance environment where female athletes can excel. Our coaching and analysis departments work closely together to deliver innovative and evidence-based training programmes, promoting the holistic growth of every player.

The Role: Women’s U21 Physical Performance Coach

We are seeking a dynamic and dedicated Physical Performance Coach to lead the strength and conditioning programme for the Women’s U21 Pro Game Academy (PGA) squad. This role is crucial in ensuring our players are physically prepared to perform at the highest level.

Key Responsibilities:

• Deliver and oversee the physical development programme for the U21 squad.
• Design and implement individual and team-based strength and conditioning plans.
• Lead on fitness testing and apply results to tailor training interventions.
• Provide rehabilitation training aligned with medical guidance.
• Collaborate with physiotherapists to develop structured activation and prehabilitation routines.
• Maintain detailed athlete records in compliance with FA and professional standards.
• Engage with parents to support player development in areas such as injury prevention, recovery, and nutrition.
• Aid in the transition of U16 players to the U21 programme.
• Support the Women’s First Team as required.
• Contribute to the development and delivery of the SAFC Women’s Long-Term Plan.

Essential Criteria:

• BSc in Sports Science or related discipline.
• UKSCA or ASCC accreditation (or evidence of working towards).
• FA Enhanced DBS (or willing to obtain).
• FA Safeguarding Children Certificate (or evidence of working towards).
• FA Level 2 Introduction to First Aid in Football (EFAiF) or FA Emergency First Aid (or working towards).
• Clean UK driving licence.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development.

Desirable Criteria:

• MSc in Strength & Conditioning or related field.
• Additional S&C certifications (e.g., NSCA, BWLA, FA Level 3).
• BASES accreditation or working towards.
• FA Level 2 Emergency Aid in Football.
• UKAD Clean Sport Advisor certification or in progress.

Why Join Sunderland AFC?

When you join SAFC, you’re becoming part of something bigger than football. You’ll be part of a team that values people, progress, and purpose. We offer:

• A dynamic and passionate working environment.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• A culture that values diversity, inclusion, and community.
• Meaningful involvement in projects that make a real difference locally.

Benefits Include:

• 22 days annual leave (rising to 27 after 5 years), plus public holidays.
• Death in Service cover.
• Pension salary exchange scheme.
• Complimentary SAFC season tickets.
• Enhanced parental leave.
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).
• Club store and partner discounts.
• Free on-site parking.