At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and deliver the Academy Goalkeeping Programme for U9-U16 players.
- Company: Join Blackburn Rovers Academy, a hub for football excellence.
- Benefits: Permanent position with competitive hours and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Flexible location and commitment to safeguarding and player welfare essential.
- Why this job: Shape the future of young goalkeepers and make a real impact in their development.
- Qualifications: UEFA B Licence (Goalkeeping) and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
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
1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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).
4. 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.
5. 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)
Lead Academy Goalkeeper Coach U9-U16 in Blackburn employer: EFL
Blackburn Rovers Academy is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that prioritises the holistic development of young athletes. With a strong commitment to safeguarding and well-being, employees benefit from collaborative multi-disciplinary teamwork, ongoing professional development opportunities, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on the next generation of goalkeepers. Located in the picturesque Brockhall Village, the academy provides a supportive culture that values innovation and excellence in coaching.
