Women's 2s Coach

England and Great Britain Hockey; St Albans; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading sports organization seeks a 2s Head Coach to develop training programs and foster a high-performance environment for the squad. The role involves planning training, managing player development, and ensuring alignment with the first team. Candidates should possess strong coaching experience and excellent leadership skills.

Qualifications

• Experience or ambition in high-performance coaching.
• Strong understanding of modern hockey tactics.
• Flexible with working hours, including evenings and weekends.

Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver high-quality training focusing on technical, tactical, and conditioning aspects.
• Develop individual skills through tailored coaching.
• Manage squad selection and communicate clearly.

Skills

High-performance coaching

Leadership

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Organisational skills

Job description

The 2s Head Coach will work alongside our Head of Performance Squad to ensure alignment of concepts and programmes across both the 1s and 2s squads. Collaborating with the Head of Performance Development and Head of Performance Squad, they will help drive the vision and strategy for the 2s squad and its members. The coach will create a high-performance environment, develop training programmes covering strategy, tactics, and playing principles, and be responsible for succession planning and youth talent development.

Performance Squad Definition

The squad, defined by the Head of Performance Squad, will include approximately 22 players, comprising first team players and aspiring first team players, who may also play for the second team.

Weekly Schedule

1. Tuesday - Performance squad and 2nd team squad training, including aspiring players for selection and development.
2. Wednesday - Selection confirmation for the upcoming weekend.
3. Thursday - Training for the selected first and second teams for the weekend.

Roles & Responsibilities

Training and Match Preparation

• Plan and deliver high-quality training focusing on technical, tactical, and conditioning aspects.
• Prepare the team for matches with analysis and strategy development.
• Lead matches with tactical adjustments and feedback.

Player Development

• Foster a positive, high-performance culture.
• Develop individual skills through tailored coaching.
• Work with the coaching team and captains to create talent progression pathways.
• Integrate appropriate players from lower teams and external recruits.

Team Management and Development

• Manage squad selection and communicate clearly using the SAHC policy.
• Collaborate with the first team coach and provide feedback on player selection.
• Build relationships with players and stakeholders.
• Ensure consistency with the 1st team’s technical and tactical principles.

Performance Analysis

• Use video analysis to inform coaching and give feedback.
• Identify improvement areas and develop targeted plans.

Club Engagement

• Represent St Albans Hockey Club and support the development of hockey within the club.

Time Commitment

• Attend training on Tuesdays and Thursdays evenings.
• Participate in weekend league matches.
• Support youth and adult training sessions as needed.
• Manage selections and communication.
• Attend management meetings as required.

Reporting and Working Relationships

Report to the Head of Performance Hockey Development and Head of Performance Squad. Collaborate with the Head of Performance Squad, Head of Coaching Development, Head of Youth, and Head of Club Hockey.

Skills & Qualities

• Experience or ambition in high-performance coaching.
• Strong understanding of modern hockey tactics and development strategies.
• Aspiring to develop training and match strategies.
• Excellent leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Organised, detail-oriented, and passionate about talent development.
• Flexible with working hours, including evenings and weekends.

Apply by sending your CV and cover letter to: [e-mail]