The assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach will assist in the design and delivery of all elements of the physical development program to Super Rugby contracted players. Under the direction of the Head of Physical Performance, this role will ensure best practise is implemented to maximise individual development and team performance in alignment with the organisational performance and development philosophy. Program delivery will be integrated closely with the Men’s Super Rugby and Academy performance and development programmes.

REPORTING: Head of Athletic Performance 

Internal Relationships:

• Super Rugby Performance and Medical Staff
• Super Rugby Coaching Staff
• Academy and Super W Performance Staff

External Relationships: 

• Rugby Australia Performance and Medical Staff
• Local universities and educational establishments 
• Rugby WA Club Staff

MANAGES: Strength and Conditioning Interns and Placement Students 

Benefits

Task & responsibilities

•    Assist the Head of Athletic Performance in programming and delivery of strength and conditioning services to contracted Western Force Super Rugby players 

•    Design and lead delivery of strength & power development programs for senior squad.

•    Assist in the design and implementation of the warmup, speed-agility, aerobic and anaerobic conditioning programmes where required. 

•    Assist across multiple areas within the performance program including recovery, cross training and game day delivery. 

•    Assist with athlete testing, monitoring, data collection and inputting as required.

•    Maintain the gym equipment and environment to high standards, ensuring safety and cleanliness as a priority 

•    Maintain strong communication on a daily basis with the rehab and physio departments in reference to player well-being and manage specific injury modifications in the weightroom collaboratively

•    Potentially co-ordinate and sport science services during international tours.

•    Adhere to Rugby Australia and Western Force stances on nutrition and supplementation. Consult with Lead Performance Dietician in holistic development plans for contracted players

•    Contribute to supervision and/or assist in the supervision, integration and education of intern staff members.

Qualification & experience

Essential Knowledge, experience and Skills 

To be successful in this role, you will possess the following:

• Bachelor’s degree &/or Master of Science with majors in Sports Science/S&C (or similar).
• ASCA Level 2 accreditation
• At least 2 years’ experience as a strength and conditioning coach in professional rugby union or similar sport
• Ability to create individualised S&C programs to achieve physical development and performance goals.
• Ability to design speed, agility and sports specific athlete conditioning programs.
• Ability to work closely with medical staff and collaborate on the programming and delivery of effective RTP programs.
• Good knowledge and a commitment to professional development 
• Well organised and planned in detail.
• Proactive management of individual time and workload.
• Ability to work well with others and collaborate effectively as part of a multi-disciplinary 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.
• Experience in international training and competition camps
• Experience in strongman training and competition preparation.
• Experience working in strength power dominant contact sports such as American football or rugby.

Desired Knowledge, Abilities and Skills

• Experience co-leading rehabilitation programmes within a professional sporting context.
• Experience working or competing in track and field and excellent understanding of speed and agility development.
• Experience working or competing in MMA or other combat sports such as wrestling or jiu jitsu.
• Olympic weightlifting and/or powerlifting coaching certifications.