At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Academy Sports Science and Medicine Programme, ensuring player health and development.
- Company: Join Rochdale AFC, a historic football club with a commitment to youth welfare.
- Benefits: Be part of a dynamic team with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Other info: Commitment to equality, diversity, and safeguarding young people is essential.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on young athletes' lives while working in a passionate sports environment.
- Qualifications: Physiotherapy graduate with knowledge in sports science; leadership skills are a plus.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
Manage the implementation and ongoing development of the Academy Sports Science and Medicine Programme across all development phases. Attendance at Professional Development Phase, Youth Development Phase, and Foundation Phase training sessions and matchdays on a systematic basis. Ensure medical cover is in place for all Academy training sessions, matchdays, tournaments, etc. Oversee injury prevention, diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and return to play protocols for Academy players across all development phases. Collaborate effectively with staff across all Academy departments (Coaching, Recruitment, Education, Player Care, etc) in order to ensure the wider needs of each player are met. Construct physical development strategies appropriate to each Academy age group. Ensure accurate medical records, screening data, and treatment documentation are maintained securely and professionally. Support any / all Academy audit processes, assisting The EFL, League Football Education, PGAAC, Bernado’s, and any other relevant organisations. As a critical member of both the Academy Management Team, play a leading role in both multi-disciplinary reviews, and individual learning plan construction. Show a commitment to undertaking continual professional development in order to maintain an up to date understanding of industry-wide changes.
PERSON SPECIFICATION:
- ESSENTIALS
- Physiotherapy graduate.
- Working knowledge of Sports Science, S&C, etc.
- In date DBS clearance.
- Able to cultivate positive relationships quickly.
- I.T. literate.
- Full driving licence.
- NICE TO HAVE’S
- MSc Physiotherapy.
- UKSCA accreditation.
- Current ITMMiF qualification.
- Current ATMMiF qualification.
- Knowledge of PMA platform.
- Working knowledge of EPPP.
- Ability to lead and develop a small team.
- Based in or around Greater Manchester.
From time to time, the successful applicant may be asked to assist with activities essential to club operations that are not outlined in the above day to day duties. The successful applicant must carry out his/her duties with due regard for Rochdale Association Football Club Limited policies and procedures, and act in the best interest of Rochdale Association Football Club Limited at all times. The successful applicant must ensure a positive commitment towards equality and diversity by treating others fairly and not committing any form of direct or indirect discrimination, victimisation or harassment of any description and to promote positive working relations. The Rochdale AFC family is wholly committed to safeguarding, and promoting the welfare and safety of young people. We fully expect our Board, employees, and volunteers to demonstrate this commitment at all times. As such, a DBS check will be required in order to undertake this post, and two references will be sought prior to appointment.
About The Club
Founded in 1907, Rochdale AFC is an established professional football club, who will compete in EFL League Two for the 2026/27 season, alongside FA Cup, Carabao Cup, and Vertu Trophy knockout competition commitments. We are involved in a broad range of sporting, commercial, and charitable activities, following the acquisition of a controlling stake in the club by The Ogden Family in May 2024.
Head of Academy Sports Science & Medicine in Rochdale employer: EFL
Rochdale AFC is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where sports science and medicine professionals can thrive. With a strong commitment to employee development, collaboration across departments, and a focus on safeguarding young talent, the club fosters a culture of inclusivity and continuous learning. Located in Greater Manchester, employees benefit from being part of a historic football club that values both professional growth and community engagement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Academy Sports Science & Medicine in Rochdale
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the sports science and medicine field, especially those connected to academies. Attend events, join relevant groups on social media, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio that highlights your experience in injury prevention, rehabilitation, and player care. Use real examples from your past roles to demonstrate how you’ve made a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job openings to pop up. Reach out directly to clubs or academies you’re interested in and express your passion for their programme. You never know when an opportunity might arise!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing applications come through directly. It shows your enthusiasm and commitment to being part of our team at Rochdale AFC. Plus, it makes it easier for us to keep track of your application!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Academy Sports Science & Medicine in Rochdale
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that match the Head of Academy Sports Science & Medicine role. Highlight your physiotherapy background and any relevant qualifications, like your MSc or UKSCA accreditation.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about sports science and medicine, and how you can contribute to the Academy's development phases. Be sure to mention your commitment to safeguarding and promoting welfare.
Showcase Your Teamwork Skills:Collaboration is key in this role, so emphasise your ability to work with various departments. Share examples of how you've successfully worked with coaching, recruitment, or player care teams in the past.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows your enthusiasm for joining the Rochdale AFC family!
How to prepare for a job interview at EFL
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the Academy Sports Science and Medicine Programme. Brush up on injury prevention, rehabilitation protocols, and how to manage medical cover during training sessions and matchdays. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you’re ready to hit the ground running.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
This role requires working closely with various departments like Coaching and Player Care. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated in the past. Highlight your ability to cultivate positive relationships quickly, as this will be key in ensuring the wider needs of players are met.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Development
Talk about your ongoing professional development and any relevant qualifications you hold, such as your MSc in Physiotherapy or UKSCA accreditation. Show that you’re not just qualified but also eager to stay updated with industry changes, which is crucial for a role that involves leading multi-disciplinary reviews.
✨Be Ready for the Unexpected
The job may involve tasks outside your usual duties, so be prepared to discuss your flexibility and willingness to assist with club operations. This shows that you’re a team player who’s committed to the club's success, not just your own role.
