Rugby Academy Director & High-Performance Coach

Placements24; Noord-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Training facilities

Job summary

Placements24 in Kimberley seeks a Rugby Academy Director & High-Performance Coach to lead the academy's strategic direction, coaching excellence, and day‑to‑day operations in the Northern Cape.

You will oversee the coaching team, design high‑performance programs across technical, tactical, physical and mental aspects, and build strong partnerships with unions, schools and community stakeholders to develop top rugby talent.

Qualifications

• A relevant degree in Sports Science, Coaching, Education, or a related field.
• 7+ years of experience in high-performance rugby coaching and/or sports management.
• Proven success in player development and team performance.
• High-level coaching accreditation (World Rugby Level 3/4 or equivalent).
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in budgeting, strategic planning, and resource management.
• Knowledge of the South African rugby landscape and development structures.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends in Kimberley.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive strategic plan for the rugby academy, focusing on player development and competitive success.
• Oversee the recruitment, training, and retention of high-potential rugby players.
• Lead and manage the academy coaching staff, providing guidance and professional development opportunities.
• Design and execute high-performance training programs, including technical, tactical, physical, and mental preparation.
• Ensure the holistic development of players, addressing academic support, life skills, and well-being.
• Manage the academy budget, resources, and facilities effectively to optimize operational efficiency in Kimberley.
• Foster a positive, disciplined, and aspirational team culture aligned with the values of the sport.
• Build strong relationships with rugby unions, schools, and community stakeholders in the Northern Cape.
• Stay abreast of global trends in rugby coaching, player development, and sports science.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Education

Sports Science degree

Job description

About the Role Our client, a premier rugby academy situated in Kimberley, is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Rugby Academy Director & High-Performance Coach. This leadership position will be responsible for the overall strategic direction, operational management, and coaching excellence of the academy. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of rugby coaching methodologies, player development pathways, and the creation of a high-performance culture. You will lead a team of specialized coaches and support staff, ensuring the holistic development of young rugby players, encompassing technical skills, physical conditioning, tactical understanding, and mental resilience. This role requires a proven leader with a passion for developing talent and a commitment to upholding the highest standards of sportsmanship and integrity within the Northern Cape region. Join us in Kimberley to shape the future of rugby talent.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive strategic plan for the rugby academy, focusing on player development and competitive success.
• Oversee the recruitment, training, and retention of high-potential rugby players.
• Lead and manage the academy coaching staff, providing guidance and professional development opportunities.
• Design and execute high-performance training programs, including technical, tactical, physical, and mental preparation.
• Ensure the holistic development of players, addressing academic support, life skills, and well-being.
• Manage the academy budget, resources, and facilities effectively to optimize operational efficiency in Kimberley.
• Foster a positive, disciplined, and aspirational team culture aligned with the values of the sport.
• Build strong relationships with rugby unions, schools, and community stakeholders in the Northern Cape.
• Stay abreast of global trends in rugby coaching, player development, and sports science.

Requirements

• A relevant degree in Sports Science, Coaching, Education, or a related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in high-performance rugby coaching and/or sports management, preferably at an academy or youth development level.
• Demonstrated success in player development and team performance.
• Possession of high-level coaching accreditation (e.g., World Rugby Level 3/4 or equivalent).
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate young athletes and staff.
• Experience in budgeting, strategic planning, and resource management.
• A thorough understanding of rugby skills, tactics, conditioning principles, and injury prevention.
• Knowledge of the South African rugby landscape and player development structures.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as required for training and matches in Kimberley.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, commensurate with experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and retirement fund contributions. Opportunities for professional development and further coaching certifications are provided. Employees will have access to excellent training facilities and resources. This role presents a unique opportunity to lead and shape a vital rugby development program in Kimberley, contributing significantly to the sport in Northern Cape.