Eastbourne HC: Men's 1st Head Coach/Player Coach

Eastbourne Hockey Club is seeking an enthusiastic, knowledgeable and ambitious coach to become our Men's 1st XI Head Coach and lead the continued development of our performance programme. We have five men's teams, four women's teams, thriving junior sections and a growing performance pathway that continues to produce talented young players progressing into senior hockey. 

Based at The Saffrons, in the heart of Eastbourne, the club continues to invest in its facilities, coaching provision and player development pathway. We are proud of our inclusive culture, strong community spirit and commitment to helping players achieve their potential, both on and off the pitch. 

Our Men's 1st XI competes in South East Men's Division 1 East and has established itself as one of the strongest sides in that division. Promotion remains a major ambition of the club, having consistently challenged towards the top end of the table in recent seasons and narrowly missed opportunities to progress into the South East Premier Division. 

With a talented blend of experienced senior players and emerging junior talent progressing through our pathway, the club is committed to building a sustainable performance environment capable of achieving promotion whilst continuing to develop players for long term success. 

The Role - Men's 1st XI Head Coach / Player Coach

This is an exciting opportunity for an individual looking to take ownership of a high performing senior team with an ambitious and supportive club environment. We welcome applications from experienced coaches, aspiring lead coaches and player coaches who can contribute both on and off the pitch. 

Key Responsibilities

• lead the planning, organisation and delivery of the Men's 1st XI performance programme;
• deliver high quality training sessions that support individual and team development;
• lead the Men's 1st XI match day environment, including selection, tactical planning, match management and performance review;
• develop and implement a clear playing philosophy aligned with the club's ambitions; 
• provide individual feedback, mentoring and support to players;
• utilise video analysis and performance review processes to enhance team and individual performance; 
• foster a positive, ambitious and inclusive culture that promotes accountability, enjoyment and excellence;
• support the progression of the players through the club's performance pathway;
• work collaboratively with coaches, captains, committee members and volunteers across the club.

Qualifications and Experience

• proven coaching experience within a hockey environment;
• experience leading or supporting senior teams is desirable;
• relevant coaching qualifications (England Hockey Level 2 or equivalent minimum);
• current safeguarding and first aid certificate desirable; 
• strong leadership, communication and interpersonal skills;
• ability to inspire, motivate and develop players;
• good tactical understanding of the game;
• experience of video analysis and performance review processes with be advantageous;
• commitment to building a positive and inclusive club culture. 

What we offer 

• the opportunity to lead on one of the most ambitious men's programmes in the South East;
• a talented squad with a strong blend of experienced players and emerging young talent; 
• a genuine opportunity to shape the future direction of the Men's 1st XI programme;
• a supportive committee and club environment committed to long term success;
• competitive remuneration dependent on experience.