Key Responsibilities

The role will cover the design and implementation of the high-performance program for the VFL program. This role may evolve over the course of the season depending on requirements of the VFL program and the WFC football department.

Plan and oversee the implementation of the high performance program for the VFL team.

Work in conjunction with the VFL Head Coach and General Manager, Football to ensure that strength and conditioning programs are developed and implemented to meet the needs of the football program and ensure fitness and performance of the players are maintained and improved throughout the season.

Ensure all training preparation, strength and conditioning requirements are met and coordinated with other medical and coaching staff.

• Running and Conditioning - designed to the specific needs of the game.
• Strength and Conditioning - Implement appropriate strength training to ensure injury prevention and allow maximum performance.
• Injury Management - Collaborate closely with the medical team, oversee and manage the injury management programs for injured players.
• Recovery - Implement strategies to facilitate recovery between matches and training.

Ensure that appropriate warm up and cool down procedures are in place.

Ensure match days are effectively prepared for and procedures implemented for match day performance including warm up and warm down, hydration, fuelling, GPS data and load management.

Implement data analysis strategies and processes, and capture and maintain records (captured in a shared location and/or via approved third-party applications) to facilitate improvement and elevate overall performance.

Provide player education, monitoring, and support to meet individualised needs.

Oversee and manage Return-to-Play programs and processes implemented in collaboration with the Club Physiotherapist and Doctor. Deliver recovery programs to monitor various components of wellbeing, including, hydration, sleep, diet and fuelling and injury management.

Design and ensure programs meet individual physical VFL football demands.

Attend all VFL training and match days as required and support and conduct overall match day management in consultation with the Senior Coach, VFL and the General Manager, Football.

Manage sports science equipment and data including management of third-party technology and other required vendors, which support the High Performance program. Ensure data and other WFC intellectual property is held in a safe and secure manner and accessible to the club and for those where appropriate to have access to it.

Build strong professional relationships with the Medical Team and ensure a well coordinated and cohesive approach is in place for overall High Performance including injury management, prehabilitation requirements and rehabilitation programs.

Assist in recruitment and management with  S & C, medical staff, volunteers and student placements as required.

Other duties as required including support for the VFLW program where reasonably requested and appropriate, and support for other club activities including community engagement and club development programs.

Ensure compliance with AFL and club compliance as related to this role.

Reporting

Reports to: General Manager – Football