At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young athletes' performance and well-being through analysis and sport science.
- Company: Join Exeter City Football Club's Academy, a hub for aspiring sports professionals.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, mentoring, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Other info: Exclusive opportunity for PFA members with a commitment to player development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the development of elite young athletes.
- Qualifications: Passion for sports, analytical skills, and a clean driving licence required.
PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS ROLE IS EXCLUSIVELY FOR EXISTING MEMBERS OF THE PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION (PFA) AND YOU MUST SUPPLY YOUR PFA MEMBERSHIP NUMBER AS PART OF THE APPLICATION PROCESS.
Location: Exeter City Football Club
Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week
Duration: Season 2026/27 (1st July 2026 – 30th April 2027)
Pay: TBC
About the Opportunity
Exeter City Football Club is seeking a motivated and enthusiastic PFA Member to join our Academy as an Academy Analyst & Sport Science Support. Under the guidance of the Head of Academy Sport Science and Medicine and the Lead Academy Sport Scientist, you will work in a professional, multidisciplinary environment that aims to prepare young players for first team football and beyond. This role has been funded by the PFA and EFL's Off-Pitch Pathway Scheme (OPPS), an initiative helping former players and scholars move into meaningful long-term careers away from the pitch. Administered by League Football Education, the OPPS programme is funding nine 12-month placements across EFL clubs which offer PFA members workplace experience across a range of professional departments within football clubs.
Role Responsibilities
- Assist the academy in providing individual player clips.
- Maintain and service Veo equipment regularly.
- Support the design and implementation of activities to optimise the health, athletic performance, and well-being of all Academy players.
- Assist with anthropometric and physical testing and analysis to support accurate assessments of player progress.
- Continuously develop knowledge in performance analytics.
- Continuously develop knowledge in sports science and medicine.
- Undertake any other reasonable and relevant tasks as assigned.
What We’re Looking For
Essential Criteria:
- Genuine passion for working with young athletes.
- Strong desire to pursue a career in Performance Analytics or Sport Science.
- Full, clean driving licence.
Desirable Criteria:
- Valid FA DBS check (current and in date; can be provided by us).
- FA Basic First Aid for Sport (BFAS) certification (can be provided by us).
- FA Safeguarding Children Certificate (current and in date; can be provided by us).
- Additional certifications in performance analytics.
- Experience working in a performance analysis role.
- Experience using Hudl.
- Experience working with young athletes.
Why Join Us?
- Gain hands-on experience in a professional football environment.
- Contribute to the development of elite young athletes.
- Work alongside a team of dedicated professionals committed to player development.
- Access opportunities for personal and professional growth through mentoring and learning initiatives.
Closing Date: 14th June 2026
Planned Interview dates: by 30th June 2026
Off-Pitch Pathway Scheme (OPPS) - Academy Analyst & Sport Science Support in Exeter employer: Exeter City AFC
Exeter City Football Club offers a unique opportunity for PFA members to gain invaluable experience in a professional football environment, focusing on the development of elite young athletes. With a strong commitment to personal and professional growth, our supportive work culture fosters collaboration among dedicated professionals, ensuring that you can thrive in your career while making a meaningful impact on the lives of aspiring players.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Off-Pitch Pathway Scheme (OPPS) - Academy Analyst & Sport Science Support in Exeter
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the football world, especially those who are already in the PFA. They might have insider info on opportunities or even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Get your hands dirty with practical experience. Volunteer or intern at local clubs or academies to build your skills and show your passion for working with young athletes. It’s all about that hands-on experience!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of performance analytics and sports science. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to the academy's goals and support player development.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our platform.
We think you need these skills to ace Off-Pitch Pathway Scheme (OPPS) - Academy Analyst & Sport Science Support in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Make sure to express your genuine passion for working with young athletes in your application. We want to see that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you truly care about helping players develop and succeed.
Highlight Relevant Experience:If you've got any experience in performance analysis or sports science, don’t hold back! We love seeing how your background aligns with the role, so be sure to mention any relevant roles or projects you've been involved in.
Include Your PFA Membership Number:Remember, this role is exclusively for existing PFA members, so don’t forget to include your PFA membership number in your application. It’s a must-have for us to consider your application!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered promptly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Exeter City AFC
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of performance analytics and sports science. Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and technologies in these fields, especially those relevant to football. This will show your genuine passion for the role and help you stand out.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss any previous experience you have working with young athletes or in performance analysis. Prepare specific examples of how you've contributed to player development or used analytics tools like Hudl. This will demonstrate your capability and enthusiasm for the position.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the academy's approach to player development and the specific responsibilities of the role. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the environment is the right fit for you.
✨Highlight Your PFA Membership
Since this role is exclusively for PFA members, make sure to mention your membership number early in the conversation. This reinforces your eligibility and commitment to the professional standards expected in this field.
