Head Coach - Elite Youth Soccer Academy

Placements24; Kempton Park; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Performance bonuses

Development funding

Cutting-edge facilities

Support staff

Career growth

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Head Coach for a prestigious youth soccer academy in Gauteng. You will lead an elite development program, shaping technical skills, tactical understanding, and ethical values in young athletes.

You will design curriculum, mentor staff, and recruit promising players, while driving a culture of excellence and holistic growth within the academy.

Qualifications

• 8+ years in youth football coaching, including at least 3 years in a head/senior role.
• Proven track record of player development to higher levels.
• Strong knowledge of modern tactics, training methods and sports science.
• Excellent leadership and communication abilities.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement age-appropriate coaching curriculum.
• Lead and mentor assistant coaches.
• Conduct high-quality training sessions focusing on technique, tactics, conditioning, and sportsmanship.
• Scout and recruit talented youth players.
• Monitor progress and provide development plans.
• Coordinate logistics for training, matches, travel.
• Ensure compliance with regulations and ethical coaching practices.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Motivation

Talent development

Team management

Mentoring

Education

CAF A License

UEFA A License

Equivalent qualification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious youth soccer academy located in **Tembisa, Gauteng**, is seeking an experienced and passionate Head Coach to lead their elite youth development program. This critical role involves shaping the next generation of soccer talent, instilling strong technical skills, tactical understanding, and ethical values in young athletes. The Head Coach will be responsible for the overall coaching strategy, player development pathways, and fostering a positive and competitive team culture. This is a unique opportunity to significantly influence the future of soccer in the region and contribute to the academy's reputation for excellence. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in youth coaching, a deep understanding of modern soccer methodologies, and a commitment to nurturing both athletic and personal growth. We are looking for a visionary leader who can inspire and motivate young players to reach their full potential. The academy prides itself on its comprehensive development approach, focusing on holistic growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement a progressive, age-appropriate coaching curriculum aligned with the academy's philosophy and long-term player development goals.
• Lead and mentor assistant coaches, providing direction, training, and performance evaluations.
• Conduct high-quality training sessions focused on technical proficiency, tactical awareness, physical conditioning, and sportsmanship.
• Scout and recruit talented young players, assessing their potential and suitability for the academy's programs.
• Monitor player progress, providing constructive feedback and personalized development plans.
• Manage team logistics for training, matches, and travel, ensuring all arrangements are made efficiently.
• Foster a positive, disciplined, and supportive team environment that encourages collaboration and respect.
• Collaborate with academy management, parents, and support staff (e.g., sports scientists, physios) to ensure a holistic approach to player development.
• Analyse match performance and adapt tactical strategies as needed to optimize team outcomes.
• Ensure adherence to all relevant football regulations and ethical coaching practices.

Requirements

• A relevant coaching qualification (e.g., CAF A License, UEFA A License or equivalent) is essential.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in youth football coaching, with at least 3 years in a head coaching or senior coaching role.
• Demonstrated success in player development and progression to higher levels of play.
• In-depth knowledge of modern football tactics, training methodologies, and sports science principles.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and motivational skills.
• Experience in player scouting and recruitment at the youth level.
• Ability to work effectively with young athletes from diverse backgrounds.
• Strong organizational and planning skills.
• A commitment to ongoing professional development and staying abreast of coaching trends.
• Knowledge of the South African football landscape is advantageous.

Benefits

• Our client offers an attractive salary package, commensurate with qualifications and experience, for this pivotal role in **Tembisa**.
• Benefits include comprehensive medical aid, performance bonuses, professional development funding, and the opportunity to work with cutting-edge training facilities and a dedicated support staff.
• Employees will enjoy a rewarding career path within a respected youth sports organization, contributing directly to the development of future sporting stars.
• The academy is committed to creating a work environment that is both challenging and supportive, ensuring our coaches can thrive.
• This position offers significant scope for impact and personal growth within the field of elite youth sports coaching.
• We provide ample opportunities for coaches to enhance their skills and advance their careers.