Head Surf Coach - Elite Development Program

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Surf facilities access

Job summary

Placements24 in Mossel Bay seeks an experienced and passionate Head Surf Coach to lead its elite athlete development program. You will identify talent, design training plans, and mentor coaches, guiding surfers toward success on national and international stages.

The role requires a ISA Level 2 certification, at least five years coaching elite athletes, and deep knowledge of wave dynamics, sport science, and psychology.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years as a professional surf coach with elite athlete development focus.
• ISA Level 2 (or higher) surf coaching certification is essential.
• Proven track record of developing surfers who achieved competitive success.
• Deep knowledge of wave dynamics, surf forecasting, and board design principles.
• Understanding of sports physiology, nutrition, and psychology relevant to surfing.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and motivational skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including early mornings, weekends, and during competition periods.
• Strong waterman skills and lifesaving proficiency.
• Experience in performance analysis and video coaching.
• Passion for surfing and athlete development.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement advanced surfing training programs for elite athletes focusing on technique, wave reading, and strategy.
• Identify and recruit promising junior and aspiring professional surfers.
• Conduct regular performance analyses and provide constructive feedback.
• Oversee athlete well-being, conditioning, nutrition, and mental preparation.
• Lead and mentor assistant coaches to ensure consistency in coaching delivery.
• Plan and manage training camps and competition travel.
• Ensure safety of all athletes during training and competitions, adhering to best practices.
• Maintain strong relationships with athletes, parents, and surfing organizations.
• Stay updated on trends in surf coaching and sports science.
• Promote a positive, disciplined, and supportive team environment.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Motivation

Lifesaving skills

Performance analysis

Education

ISA Level 2 Surf Coaching Certification

Tools

Video coaching tools

Performance analysis software

Job description

About the Role

A highly reputable surf academy situated in the vibrant coastal town of Mossel Bay, Western Cape , is seeking an experienced and passionate Head Surf Coach to lead its elite athlete development program. This critical role involves identifying and nurturing top surfing talent, designing comprehensive training plans, and guiding athletes towards competitive success on national and international stages. The ideal candidate will possess extensive coaching experience, a deep understanding of surf dynamics, biomechanics, and athlete psychology, along with a proven ability to motivate and develop young surfers. You will be instrumental in shaping the future of competitive surfing in the region and contributing to the thriving leisure and sports scene of Mossel Bay, Western Cape .

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement advanced surfing training programs for elite athletes, focusing on technique, wave reading, and competitive strategy.
• Identify and recruit promising junior and aspiring professional surfers.
• Conduct regular performance analysis, providing constructive feedback to athletes.
• Oversee athlete well-being, including physical conditioning, nutrition, and mental preparation.
• Lead and mentor assistant coaches, ensuring consistency and quality in coaching delivery.
• Plan and manage training camps and competition travel.
• Ensure the safety of all athletes during training and competitions, adhering to best practices.
• Maintain strong relationships with athletes, parents, and relevant surfing organizations.
• Stay updated on the latest trends and techniques in surf coaching and sports science.
• Promote a positive, disciplined, and supportive team environment.

Requirements

• A minimum of 5 years of experience as a professional surf coach, with a significant focus on elite athlete development.
• A recognized surf coaching certification (e.g., ISA Level 2 or higher) is essential.
• Proven track record of developing surfers who have achieved competitive success.
• In-depth knowledge of wave dynamics, surf forecasting, and board design principles.
• Understanding of sports physiology, nutrition, and psychology relevant to surfing.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and motivational skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including early mornings, weekends, and during competition periods.
• Strong waterman skills and proficiency in lifesaving techniques.
• Experience in performance analysis and video coaching.
• Passion for the sport of surfing and dedication to athlete development.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and opportunities for professional development. Benefits include health insurance and access to excellent surfing facilities. This role offers a unique lifestyle opportunity, working year-round in the world-class surf breaks of Mossel Bay, Western Cape , and playing a key role in shaping the next generation of surfing champions.