Lead Coaches – Third Grade and Fifth Grade

Position Description | 2027 Season

Petersham Rugby Club | Unpaid Volunteer Positions

About Petersham

Known as the Shammies, Petersham is a diverse community rugby club in Sydney’s Inner West, bringing people together since 1883. We value competitive rugby, lasting friendships and people who contribute to the club on and off the field.

We train and play our home matches at Camperdown Oval, close to central Sydney and public transport, and approximately 10 minutes’ walk from Sydney University.

We are seeking Lead Coaches for third grade and fifth grade. These are separate opportunities, and applicants can express interest in either grade.

Role Purpose

Lead a grade’s coaching, player development and match preparation within the club’s broader rugby programme. Help players improve, enjoy their rugby and contribute to a welcoming, competitive team environment.

These roles would suit a former player starting their coaching journey, a coach returning after time away, or someone looking to develop their experience leading a senior team.

Key Responsibilities

1. Training and Team Preparation

• Plan and deliver practical, engaging training appropriate to players’ abilities and experience.
• Develop core skills, game understanding and teamwork.
• Work alongside other coaches and strength and conditioning staff.
• Apply the club’s shared coaching language and playing principles.

2. Match-Day Coaching

• Prepare the team for Saturday matches, including warm-ups, team organisation and tactics.
• Provide clear direction and constructive feedback.
• Work with team management on player availability and match-day arrangements.

3. Player Development and Welfare

• Help players identify development goals and improve throughout the season.
• Support players moving between grades and communicate selection decisions respectfully.
• Follow injury and concussion procedures, medical advice and return-to-play requirements.
• Work with relevant support staff to adapt training to player needs.

4. Club Collaboration and Contribution

• Work with the Director of Rugby and other grade coaches on selection, player development and squad needs.
• Balance the needs of your team with the interests of the wider club.
• Welcome new players and encourage continued participation.
• Model respect, contribution and care for club equipment and facilities.
• Support club activities and share useful learning with the coaching group.

Training Location and Commitment

Training

• Days: Tuesdays and Thursdays.
• Time: 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm.
• Location: Camperdown Oval, Camperdown.
• Convenience: Close to public transport and approximately 10 minutes’ walk from Sydney University.

Match days

• Saturday attendance is required.
• Third grade and fifth grade generally play in the morning, with kick-off times subject to the draw.
• Some weekend travel to away grounds is required.

Regular attendance at both weekly training sessions and Saturday matches is expected, together with reasonable preparation and player communication. Any availability constraints should be discussed when applying.

Ideal Candidate

• Sound rugby union knowledge gained through playing, coaching or both.
• Interest in community sport and helping players develop.
• Approachable, reliable and organised, with clear communication skills.
• Comfortable working with players of different backgrounds, abilities and experience.
• Willing to learn, receive feedback and collaborate with other coaches.
• Keen to give back and stay connected with rugby, particularly someone living or working locally.
• Previous coaching experience or qualifications are welcome but are not essential to apply.
• Must hold or obtain the registration and coaching safety credentials required for the role, including Smart Rugby, before commencing coaching duties.

What Success Looks Like

• Players improve their skills, confidence and understanding of the game.
• Training is organised, purposeful and enjoyable.
• The team is prepared and competitive on Saturdays.
• Players feel welcome, stay involved and contribute to club life.
• Coaches work effectively across grades and support player development throughout the club.
• Player welfare and respectful behaviour remain central to coaching decisions.

Conduct and Volunteer Status

Coaches must comply with NSW Suburban Rugby Union, Rugby Australia and club Codes of Conduct, including respectful treatment of players, match officials, opponents and volunteers.

These are unpaid volunteer positions. No salary or coaching fee is offered. Any support for coach development or exceptional expenses must be discussed and approved in advance.

Reporting to: Director of Rugby.

How to Apply

Click the Apply button on this listing and provide a short introduction outlining your playing or coaching background, why you would like to coach at Petersham, your availability and your preferred grade.

A coaching CV is welcome but not essential.