Academy Athletic Performance Coach (U21)

Organisation: Southampton Football Club
Salary: Competitive
Location: Southampton
Contract type: (Full time)
Closing date: 12 October 2025
Job Description: Be part of our journey...
Location: Staplewood Campus

Hours: Full Time

Contract Type: Permanent

Criminal Record Check: DBS Enhanced with Childs Barred List

What is the role?
As an Athletic Performance Coach for the U21s, you will be responsible for delivering the athletic performance program to our U21 players. This includes designing and implementing an individually tailored programme that contributes to their physical development, while also impacting the wider academy through best practices in athletic performance. A key aspect of the role is to uphold the innovative and impactful working practices of the Athletic Performance Department, particularly in its approach to youth development. You will also play an active role in a Sports Science Department that is viewed as a centre of excellence in player development and cutting-edge medical and science research and development.

What will you be doing?
You will contribute to the development of a long-term athletic development plan that aligns with the department's strategy and physical framework, encompassing best practice in all aspects of youth athletic development. A central responsibility will be delivering a comprehensive athletic performance programme to the U21 players. This includes planning, delivering, and evaluating both on- and off-pitch sessions while also fostering players' understanding of their own physical development and professional behaviours.

Collaboration is key to this role. You will work cross-phase within the department to support both short-term and permanent player transitions, and to share expertise when needed. Ensuring that the delivery and practices for the U21s are aligned with the academy's physical framework and broader department plans is essential.

You will also assist in the development and education of departmental work placement students, fostering a culture of continuous learning. Working closely with academy staff, you will contribute to an interdisciplinary approach that enhances overall player development and performance. This includes collaborating with technical staff on daily and long-term training practices, and with the medical team to design and implement injury prevention programmes, rehabilitation plans, and need-based group sessions.

Additionally, you will be expected to contribute to knowledge-sharing initiatives across all departments, upskilling others in aspects of youth athletic development. Supported by the Athletic Performance Manager, you will lead or assist in performance-related projects that address key questions around youth physical development and talent retention.

You will also conduct comprehensive data collection and analysis to inform player development. This includes monitoring training and match performance, performing anthropometric testing, and maintaining accurate records in data management systems. You will attend and contribute to relevant meetings, providing player development insights and reports to academy management and other key stakeholders.

As part of the wider team, you will be expected to drive and maintain high performance standards among staff, players, and throughout the club environment.

Is this you?

The ideal candidate will demonstrate genuine enthusiasm and passion for youth athletic development. This includes having the interpersonal skills and passion necessary to engage, motivate, and inspire young athletes throughout their developmental journey.

Essential Skills & Experience

A qualification at degree level (or equivalent) in sports science or a related discipline.
A qualification at Masters level in sports science or a related discipline. (Desirable)
UKSCA & BASES accreditation or ability to attain within agreed timeframe.
Demonstrable enthusiasm and curiosity in youth athletic development, with an ability to engage and inspire youth players.
Knowledge and experience of impacting player development working within long term athletic development programmes.
Extensive knowledge of paediatric exercise science and relevant contemporary issues.
Experience of successfully integrating into established multidisciplinary teams.
Experience of coordinating, delivering, and developing sports science services within elite youth sports.

How this benefits you…

If you are successful, you can look forward to a healthy benefits package;

Access to x2 free match tickets for every home league game
Access to our staff Health & Wellbeing initiatives (Mental & Physical Health).
Discounted Southampton Football Club merchandise.
25 days holiday per year excluding bank holidays plus your birthday off each year.
Contributory Pension Scheme.
Worldwide Travel Insurance for you and your family.
Learning & Development opportunities - supporting you to develop your potential and achieve in your career.
Free onsite parking.
Cycle to Work Scheme.
Collaborative & inclusive working culture.
How can I apply?

Just click on the apply button, enter your details and answer a quick pre-screening questionnaire, then attach your CV.

The closing date for this role is the 12th of October 2025.

*We reserve the right to close this vacancy early, if a high volume of applicants are received. *
How to apply: https://saintsfc.wd3.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/SFC001/details/Academy-Athletic-Performance-Coach--U21-_RQ-034113-1