About the Role

The NRLW and Pathways Head of Performance is responsible for leading and coordinating all aspects of physical performance, sports science, and rehabilitation across the St George Illawarra Dragons NRLW and Female Pathways programs. This role provides strategic direction, leadership, and alignment to ensure all areas of athlete performance support the development, preparation, and ongoing high performance of players across the female football program.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Program Oversight

• Lead and deliver the annual NRLW and Female Pathways Performance Plan.
• Provide leadership across Strength & Conditioning, Sports Science, and Rehabilitation.
• Ensure consistency and alignment across the NRLW and Female Pathways programs.
• Lead and support the Performance team and contribute to the ongoing development of the female football performance pathway.

Athlete Performance & Monitoring

• Oversee player testing, monitoring, and physical development.
• Manage player loads and progression across the NRLW and Pathways programs.
• Use performance data to support programming and player development.
• Work closely with Coaching and Medical staff on individual player plans and return-to-performance.

Staff & Department Integration

• Lead, mentor, and develop Performance staff across NRLW and Pathways.
• Work closely with the Coaching and Medical teams to ensure an integrated approach.
• Support the development of interns and placement students where required.
• Identify professional development opportunities for staff.

Operations & Administration

• Oversee the planning and delivery of performance programs across NRLW and Pathways.
• Manage performance resources, equipment, and budget requirements.
• Ensure athlete monitoring and performance reporting systems are maintained.
• Maintain clear communication across Performance, Medical, Coaching, and Football departments.

Professional Standards & Culture

• Uphold the Dragons’ values and professional standards.
• Create a positive, accountable, and high-performing environment.
• Ensure appropriate duty of care, safety, and professional standards are maintained.
• Continue to develop professionally and represent the club with integrity.

About You

Essential Requirements

• Minimum 3 years’ experience in high-performance sport, including leadership within elite or semi-elite systems.
• Proven success managing multidisciplinary performance programs.
• Demonstrated ability to lead staff and align multiple programs within a unified performance framework.
• Experience developing athletes from youth to elite competition levels.
• Strong experience with athlete monitoring technologies (GPS, wellness, testing platforms).
• High-level communication, organizational, and leadership skills.
• Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science, Sport & Exercise Science or related field
• ASCA Level 1 (minimum) or working towards Level 2
• First Aid & CPR certification
• Experience working within rugby league or team sport environments (preferred)
• Experience using GPS and athlete monitoring systems (desirable)