1st XV Physiotherapist

Organisation: Sale Sharks Rugby Club
Salary: Competitive
Location: Carrington, Manchester
Contract type: Permanent (Full time)
Closing date: 10 October 2025
Interview date: 13 October 2025
Job Description: WHO WE ARE: We are Sale Sharks: A team. A community. A family, woven together by the Fabric of the North.
Sale Sharks is the only Premiership Rugby Union team in the North-West, playing top-flight rugby in the Gallagher Premiership and European Champions Cup, with an emerging Women’s team competing in Premiership Women’s Rugby.
With Northern charm in our blood and Shark pride in our hearts, our mission is to be the most impactful rugby club on the planet, on and off the pitch.

Inclusive and caring in everything we do. We’re not afraid to take risks, trying something new in search of better and facing up to the toughest with courage and pride. We use our position as the best team in the North to make a real difference, whether that’s through grassroots sports or community initiatives.

We play with integrity on and off the pitch and we are seeking someone who shares our values of Togetherness, Fearlessness, Passion, Pride and Humility.

THE OPPORTUNITY:

This is a rare opportunity for a highly skilled therapist from an elite sporting background to shape the physiotherapy provision for Sale Sharks players. This will be a hands-on role operating at the forefront of the Club as part of a multi-disciplinary team and driving both development and performance outcomes. The successful applicant will be a very strong communicator, with a growth mindset and have proven experience in building trusted relationships whilst motivating elite athletes in a winning team.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Confident and proficient in the management of their own case load of 1st XV players.
• To assist in the management of physiotherapy services through assessment, treatment rehabilitation and education for Sale Sharks 1st XV players + Key Senior Academy Players.
• To ensure all assessments follow a thorough orthopaedic assessment, Neuro-kinetic assessment, understanding of previous linked injuries, an understanding of the mechanics of the injury, a clear working differential diagnosis coupled with a logical hypothesis of why this injury was sustained
• Ensure if the above criteria are not achieved, to escalate immediately
• Daily and weekly screening of 1st XV Sale Sharks Players + Key senior academy players
• Record keeping and administrative duties to help the smooth running of the medical services department
• Educate players/coaches in overall player treatment and prevention of injuries
• Close working relationship with S&C to help plan exercise prescription and execution for individuals/groups
• Training and match day advanced trauma care provision

KEY MATCHDAY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Attendance at 1st XV matches (rota) & assist in preparation of medical kit.
• On pitch assessment and pitch side treatment.
• Post-match assessment, advice and treatment. Recording of all injuries, treatments and progressions.
• Accurate diagnosis of injuries and symptoms with a clear approach to treating the cause/s.
• Strong communication skills with players, coaches and head of medical services post game.

ESSENTIAL SKILLS & EXPERIENCE:
• Physiotherapy qualification (BSc or MSc pre-reg)
• 4 years plus of experience in elite sport
• Valid registration with HCPC & CSP
• PHICIS Level 3 or equivalent
• CPD portfolio showing commitment to ongoing professional development
• Growth Mindset with positive and optimistic attitude
• Very strong communication skills

DESIRABLE SKILLS & EXPERIENCE:

• Experience of working in a multi-disciplinary team within an elite sport environment
• High level of knowledge around the physical, psychological and technical demands associated with Rugby

BENEFITS:

• Access to on-site gym
• Subsidised meals during season
• Free parking on site
• Free match tickets to all Sale Sharks home fixtures
How to apply: Please send CV and covering letter to laura.cordwell@salesharks.com