Junior Performance Coach (Northern Ireland) in London

Squash Ireland is the National Governing Body for Squash on the island of Ireland. The organisation has experienced significant growth with the number of affiliated clubs, members, coaches, tournaments, and leagues increasing. A major restructuring has also taken place with the move to a strategically focused board of directors and growth in staffing from two to nine (FTE) over the past 18 months.

The inclusion of squash in the LA 2028 Olympics has injected new energy and focused attention on developing a world-class high-performance programme to nurture talent and provide players with the necessary support to compete at European, World and Olympic level. Squash Ireland players have reached the pinnacle of the sport and there is a proud history of players competing at the highest levels of the game.

Following the appointment of a Head Coach in November 2024, Squash Ireland is continuing to develop its high-performance unit and is seeking to appoint a Junior Performance Coach for Northern Ireland to deliver performance coaching and to identify, support, and develop talent within the region.

Role

The successful candidate will work with the Squash Ireland Head Coach, Junior Performance Coach, and Junior Development Coach to implement the High-Performance Strategy 2025–2028 and deliver on the objectives agreed with Sport Northern Ireland under the Medals & More programme. A key focus of the performance development plan is to establish professional structures and systems for junior performance players, as well as to create a sustainable pathway for the development of all junior players across Northern Ireland and Ulster.

The Junior Performance Coach – Northern Ireland will provide support across the talent pathway for players from U13 to U19 within the province.

Reporting Structure

The Junior Performance Coach Northern Ireland will report to the Squash Ireland Head Coach. They will be required to develop strong working relationships with Squash Ireland staff, Squash Ulster Board members, the High-Performance Working Group, club and personal coaches, and a wide range of funders and stakeholders involved in performance sport, both across the island of Ireland and internationally.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver an agreed number of Junior Performance Academy training sessions in Northern Ireland for U13 to U19 in conjunction with the Squash Ireland Head Coach, Junior Performance Coach and Junior Development Coach.
• Support members of the Junior Performance Academy at agreed international tournaments.
• Encourage and support active engagement in the Junior Performance Academy from committed and talented players in Northern Ireland.
• Identify, support, and develop talent within Northern Ireland.
• Ensure a high standard of delivery across Junior Performance Academy sessions, travel, preparation, and participation in national and international competitions.
• Undertake various administrative tasks related to the role, working with office-based staff on the logistics associated with High Performance Programme delivery.
• Disseminate best practices and ways of working among national, provincial and club coaches to positively influence the development of young players across the island of Ireland.
• Be eligible and willing to work in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, with some international travel required.
• Full unrestricted driver’s licence and sound driving record.
• Access NI and Safeguarding.

Essential Skills and Experience

• Significant experience in a similar or comparable role.
• Proven success in coaching and developing young players to compete at a high level and transition into senior ranks.
• Relevant qualification in sport/exercise science/coaching, sports management, or a related discipline is desirable, or equivalent significant workplace experience.
• Experience in programme management involving players, coaches, and service providers.
• Excellent organisational, administrative, and time-management skills.
• Excellent leadership, communication, player management, and motivation skills.
• Major event experience at Junior and/or Senior European and World level is desirable.

Further Information

This is a flexible role with a guaranteed minimum of 12 contracted days. Additional days may be agreed upon, depending on a needs assessment and budget availability. Fixed-term contract until 31st March 2026 (with the possibility of extension, subject to funding and performance). The Squash Ulster base is located at the Belfast Boat Club. Flexible and remote working arrangements are available. Daily rate is dependent on experience.

The appointment will be made subject to satisfactory Access NI/Garda Vetting Checks and Reference Checking Procedures.

How to Apply?

Applications must be sent by email with the subject line: (ATTN: Junior Performance Coach Northern Ireland). When applying by email, please include a letter of introduction detailing your skills and experience relevant to the role and your Curriculum Vitae outlining your skills and work experience. Please send these materials no later than the 11th of August 2025 to Squash Ireland.

Squash Ireland is an equal opportunity employer, celebrating diversity and championing inclusivity. If you require any reasonable accommodations to assist you in participating in the employee selection process, please simply let us know.