At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead physical preparation for a women's rugby squad and design tailored strength programmes.
- Company: Welsh Rugby Union, dedicated to high-performance sports and inclusivity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, hybrid work, and extra birthday leave.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to excellence and personal growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of women's rugby and make a real impact on athletes' performance.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in elite strength and conditioning with strong coaching skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 30000 £ per year.
As part of our ambition to return Welsh Rugby to the top of the international game, we are committed to building a clear, aligned Welsh Rugby DNA. Central to this is the development of a high‑performance women’s pathway that consistently produces physically prepared, technically developed athletes ready for elite and international rugby. We are investing in the physical performance infrastructure of our Celtic Challenge programme. This is a significant opportunity for an ambitious performance practitioner to shape and lead the physical preparation of a Celtic Challenge women’s squad, driving standards and ensuring full alignment with the national performance pathway.
Responsibilities
- Lead physical preparation for a Celtic Challenge women’s squad
- Design and deliver individualised strength and conditioning programmes
- Drive performance standards, testing, and athlete monitoring
- Lead return‑to‑performance for injured athletes in collaboration with medical staff
- Ensure alignment with the national women’s performance pathway
Qualifications
- Minimum 5 years of experience in elite strength and conditioning within rugby or team sport
- Outstanding coaching ability across strength, power, speed, conditioning, and movement development
- Proven ability in athlete testing, profiling, screening, and use of performance data systems (GPS, training load, wellness monitoring)
- Experience managing rehabilitation and return‑to‑performance within an interdisciplinary performance team
- Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills with high emotional intelligence
Additional Requirements
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office packages and good written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to communicate in Welsh (desirable)
- Valid UK driver’s licence
- Subject to a basic DBS check
Benefits
- Salary of £30,000 per annum
- Insurance: Life assurance scheme
- Salary Sacrifice Pension – 5% employee contribution matched by WRU
- WRU Group Ticket Allocation (subject to ticketing policy)
- One additional paid day off (birthday leave)
- Employee assistance programme
- Hybrid working arrangements (Team Tactics)
- Free stadium parking and gym access
- Group store and tour discounts
- Group partnership offers
- Eye Care Voucher Scheme
- Cycling to Work Scheme
EEO & Diversity
The WRU Group is committed to building diverse, high‑performing and engaged teams across Welsh Rugby. We are dedicated to cultivating an inclusive culture where everyone is valued and respected. We support the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy and the Crys I Bawb EDI Strategy (2024‑2029). We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and require an inclusion monitoring form for organisational purposes. This information will only be used anonymously to monitor the inclusivity of our selection processes.
Employment Details
- Closing Date: 12 June 2026
- Status: Full time, permanent
- Location: WRU National Centre of Excellence, Hensol
- Positions available: 2
Celtic Challenge - Physical Performance Coach in Pontyclun employer: WRU - Welsh Rugby Union
The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for passionate individuals to contribute to the development of elite women's rugby in a supportive and inclusive environment. With a commitment to employee growth, competitive benefits including a salary of £30,000, hybrid working arrangements, and a focus on diversity, WRU fosters a culture where every team member is valued and empowered to excel in their roles at the National Centre of Excellence in Hensol.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Celtic Challenge - Physical Performance Coach in Pontyclun
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the rugby community and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have a lead or be able to put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Get involved in local rugby events or workshops. This not only boosts your visibility but also shows your commitment to the sport. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential employers face-to-face!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the WRU and their performance pathways. Show them you’re not just passionate about rugby but also understand their vision and how you can contribute to it.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Celtic Challenge - Physical Performance Coach in Pontyclun
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for rugby and physical performance shine through. We want to see how much you care about developing athletes and contributing to the Welsh Rugby DNA!
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in elite strength and conditioning. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your coaching ability and how you've driven performance standards in the past.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your skills and experiences, as we appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity with the Celtic Challenge programme.
How to prepare for a job interview at WRU - Welsh Rugby Union
✨Know Your Rugby Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest trends and techniques in rugby performance. Brush up on the specifics of strength and conditioning, especially as they relate to women's rugby. This will not only show your passion but also your commitment to the role.
✨Showcase Your Coaching Skills
Prepare to discuss your coaching philosophy and how you've successfully implemented individualised programmes in the past. Bring examples of how you've driven performance standards and worked with athletes to achieve their goals. Real-life stories resonate well!
✨Demonstrate Team Collaboration
Highlight your experience working within interdisciplinary teams, especially in rehabilitation settings. Be ready to explain how you’ve collaborated with medical staff and other coaches to ensure athletes return to performance safely and effectively.
✨Communicate Effectively
Strong communication skills are key for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. If you can communicate in Welsh, don’t hesitate to mention it! It shows your dedication to the culture and community of Welsh Rugby.
