Head Coach

Melbourne University Blacks Football Club; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Melbourne University Blacks Football Club is seeking a Senior Men Head Coach to lead the senior football program at our VAFA club and to drive a high‑performance environment that develops players and coaches.

You will work with the Football Operations Manager, Football Committee and coaching staff to implement the club’s philosophy, game plan and pathways, while representing the Blacks within the VAFA and the wider football community.

Qualifications

• AFL coaching accreditation is required.
• Experience coaching at AFL, VFL, Coates Talent League, VFL Development or equivalent.
• Experience in player development and coaching leadership will be viewed favourably.

Responsibilities

• Lead the overall direction and performance of the senior football program.
• Develop and implement the club’s football philosophy, game plan and playing style.
• Lead and develop the senior coaching group.
• Develop players and create pathways to senior football.
• Support player recruitment and retention with the Football Department.
• Set high standards for preparation, performance and culture.
• Lead the team on match day and oversee game-day strategy.
• Use performance feedback to continually improve the program.

Skills

Coaching leadership

Player development

Football philosophy

Relationship building

Job description

ABOUT THE BLACKS

Established in 1859, Melbourne University Blacks is one of Australia’s oldest and most

respected football clubs, with a proud history including 20 senior premierships.

Based at the University of Melbourne, the Blacks combine a strong football tradition with a

unique university environment built around football, development, connection and culture.

With our senior program competing at the highest level of VAFA football and strong pathways

through our U19s and development programs, the club is entering an exciting period of

growth.

THE OPPORTUNITY

The Senior Men Head Coach will lead the senior football program, establishing a clear

football identity and creating a high-performing environment where players and coaches can

develop and succeed.

Working closely with the Football Operations Manager, Football Committee and coaching

staff, the Head Coach will be responsible for:

• Leading the overall direction and performance of the senior football program.
• Developing and implementing the club’s football philosophy, game plan and playing style.
• Leading, supporting and developing the senior coaching group.
• Developing players and creating opportunities for emerging talent to progress into senior football.
• Supporting player recruitment and retention in conjunction with the Football Department.
• Setting high standards around preparation, performance, professionalism and culture.
• Leading the team on match day and overseeing game-day strategy.
• Using performance analysis and feedback to continually improve the program.Representing Melbourne University Blacks professionally within the VAFA and broader football community.

ABOUT YOU

We are looking for a coach who:

• Is an experienced and strong football leader.
• Has a clear coaching philosophy and understanding of contemporary football.
• Is passionate about developing players and coaches.
• Can build strong relationships and create a positive, accountable environment.
• Balances high performance with player development.
• Is committed to developing young footballers and building a sustainable pathway.
• Works collaboratively with the broader Football Department and Club.
• Understands and embraces the culture, values and traditions of Melbourne University Blacks.

EXPERIENCE

• AFL coaching accreditation is required.
• Experience coaching at AFL, VFL, Coates Talent League, VFL Development or an
• equivalent level will be highly regarded.
• Experience in player development, coaching leadership and establishing successful football pathways will also be viewed favourably.

WHY JOIN THE BLACKS?

This is an opportunity to lead the senior football program of a historic club with a strong platform for the future.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to shape our football identity, develop the next generation of Blacks players and coaches, and compete at the highest level of VAFA football while being part of the unique environment of Melbourne University.

We are looking for someone who wants to build, develop and compete.