ABOUT THE ROLE:
The AFLW Strength and Conditioning & Return to Play Coach is accountable for developing the physical qualities and training readiness of the playing squad to meet the demands of AFLW football, while maximising player availability through best-practice return-to-play outcomes.
The role designs and delivers speed, conditioning and rehabilitation programs; drives strength development across the squad; and leads the coordination of injured players’ rehabilitation in collaboration with the Medical Team and High Performance staff. This includes owning rehabilitation programming and contributing to an integrated, outcomes-driven High Performance Program.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Design and deliver strength, conditioning and return-to-play programs that prepare athletes for AFLW performance demands
- Drive strength development and physical capability across the playing squad
- Lead and coordinate rehabilitation programs for injured players in collaboration with Medical and High Performance staff
- Support player availability and readiness through best-practice injury management and return-to-play processes
- Deliver high-quality training elements including warm-ups, recovery protocols and pre-training preparation
- Assist with physical testing, monitoring and profiling to inform individual development and training progression
- Monitor training loads and athlete readiness to optimise performance and reduce injury risk
- Coordinate rehabilitation scheduling to ensure seamless integration back into full training
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR:
- Undergraduate degree in Sports Science (or equivalent).
- ASCA Professional Level 2 Coach Accreditation (or higher).
- Demonstrated experience in a similar role within an elite team sport environment.
- Experience designing and delivering rehabilitation and/or athletic performance programs.
- Experience working with female athletes (desirable).
- Current and valid Working with Children Check.
- Commitment to continuous improvement and current best practice.
- Elite high performance standards, behaviours and strong drive for excellence.
- High initiative, energy and ownership of outcomes.
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making under pressure.
- Team player, demonstrating accountability for role, high level of respect for colleagues and their roles.
- Ability to build trust and collaborate effectively across a multidisciplinary program.
ABOUT US:
Richmond Football Club is one of the largest clubs in the Australian Football League, proudly rooted in our rich history and tradition. As we honour our past, we’re focused on building a Strong & Bold future – both on and off the field– through living our purpose of Belonging, Thriving and Winning.
We understand the power of sport to connect people, and at the heart of the Club’s purpose is being involved with our community. At Richmond, culture is paramount, and the Club is committed to developing its people in a supportive environment. Belonging, Thriving and Winning is not just about connecting with fans and members, but about staff, players and coaches connecting with each other with humour and care, through storytelling and authenticity, to build genuine relationships.
WHY WORK FOR US:
- Award-Winning Culture: Join an organisation that is an Australian HR Employer of Choice finalist and a Flexible Work Champion.
- Flexibility #: Enjoy a flexible work environment with options like flexible hours, work-from-home options, a relaxed dress code and the ability to observe public holidays that align with your cultural beliefs.
- Inclusive & Belonging: We are deeply committed to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, ensuring that everyone feels valued and respected, no matter their background or abilities
- Work-Life Balance: We believe in a ‘people first’ culture, where your personal and professional life can thrive together.
- Growth & Development: Your growth is our priority with professional development opportunities tailored to suit your goals.
- Wellbeing & Fun: We work hard but know how to have fun, fostering a high-performance, caring culture that values holistic wellbeing.
- Community Connection: Make a positive impact in the wider community and engage with our charity partners by supporting the Alannah and Madeline Foundation or get involved in one of our community programs across Korin Gamadji or the Bachar Houli Foundation.
- Perks & Benefits: Enjoy money can’t buy experiences, a range of perks, including discounts through our sponsors!
Click here to view our Employee Value Proposition (EVP) to find out why you should work at our Club!
OUR COMMITMENT TO THE SAFETY AND WELLBEING OF CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE:
The Richmond Football Club is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all children and young people. We exclusively hire individuals committed to fostering a child safe culture, irrespective of their role, and it is essential that all our staff understand their responsibility in relation to child safety. Individuals will require pre-employment checks, including a valid Working with Children Check for this role.
