Lead Academy Goalkeeper Coach U9-U16

Department: Academy Coaching

Based at: Blackburn Rovers Academy, Brockhall Village, Old Langho, Blackburn, BB6 8BA. However, flexibility regarding location is required.

Reports to: Senior Academy Goalkeeping Coach

Hours of work: 37.5 hours per week plus any additional hours necessary for the performance of duties. This may include evening and weekend work.

Contractual status: Permanent

Job purpose: To lead and deliver the Academy Goalkeeping Programme for Pre Academy to U16 in alignment with the Academy Performance Plan, ensuring a clear development pathway and transition through the phases. The role will support the holistic development of goalkeepers through high-quality coaching, performance analysis, and individual learning plans.

Key responsibilities:

• To be committed to ensuring the safeguarding and welfare of all staff and elite players, promoting their well-being whilst maintaining professional boundaries.
• Deliver the Academy Goalkeeping Curriculum in line with the club’s playing and coaching philosophy for Pre Academy to U16s.
• Collaborate with the Senior Academy Goalkeeper Coach to implement and evolve the Goalkeeping Development Programme.
• Plan, deliver, and review individual and group coaching sessions, ensuring alignment with ILPs and phase-specific outcomes.
• Contribute to the multi-disciplinary team (MDT) approach, including performance analysis, sports science, and psychology.
• Maintain accurate records of coaching sessions, player reviews, and development plans using the club’s designated systems.
• Provide regular feedback to players and parents, including formal reviews and reports.
• Support the FP/YDP & PDP training and games programme where necessary.
• Support the recruitment and retention process for goalkeepers across the Foundation and Youth Development Phases.
• Attend and contribute to internal CPD, staff meetings, and external learning opportunities.

Skills required:

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a multi-disciplinary team.
• High level of planning, organisation, and attention to detail.
• Analytical and reflective approach to coaching and player development.
• Proficient in IT systems including Microsoft Office and performance analysis tools (e.g., Hudl).

Knowledge required:

• In-depth understanding of goalkeeper development across the Foundation and Youth Development Phases.
• Familiarity with the Elite Player Performance Plan (EPPP) and its application within an academy setting.
• Knowledge of safeguarding, child protection, and welfare best practices.
• Understanding of long-term player development models and talent identification.

Qualifications required:

• Essential UEFA B Licence (Outfield)
• UEFA B Licence (Goalkeeping)
• FA Youth Modules 1–3
• FA Safeguarding Certificate
• FA Emergency First Aid in Football
• DBS Check Required: Yes (Enhanced)