Women's 2s Coach

Objective

The 2s Head Coach will be working alongside our Head of Performance Squad, ensuring the Performance squad concepts and programmes align across both 1s and 2s squads. Working with the Head of Performance Development and Head of Performance Squad, they will help drive the vision and strategy for the 2s’ squad and the Performance Squad members. As the 2s’ Head Coach they will create a high-performance environment and develop effective training programmes, including strategy, tactics and playing principles. The role will include responsibility for succession planning and talented youth development.  

Performance Squad Definition

The Performance Squad will be defined by the Head of Performance Squad and will consist of approximately 22 players. The group will include the first team players and a number of aspiring first team players, who may play for the second team. 

Tuesday - the performance squad and the 2nd team squad (incl. aspiring 2nd team players considered for selection and player development).

Wednesday – selection for the forthcoming weekend will be confirmed.

Thursday – the selected first team and selected second team for the coming weekend will train independently.

ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Training and match Preparation

●      Plan and deliver high-quality training sessions that focus on technical, tactical development and strength and conditioning where possible.

●      Prepare the team for competitive matches, including pre-match analysis and strategy development.

●      Lead the team for competitive matches, including in-game tactical adjustments and feedback.

Player Development

●      Foster a positive and high-performance culture within the squad.

●      Develop individual player skills through tailored coaching and feedback

●      Work closely with the club’s wider coaching team and captains to create a pathway for talent progression for players.

●      Contribute to the development of the squad in terms of integration of appropriate players from lower teams, specifically youth (U18) players, aspiring adult players and recruitment of appropriate players from outside the club.

Team Management and development

●      Manage squad selection and ensure clear communication with players using the SAHC selection policy.

●      Work proactively with the first team coach (Head of Men's Performance Squad) and provide input to the selection of the 3rd team, working closely with the captain/coach to provide feedback to the players where appropriate (e.g. non selection).

●      Build strong relationships with players, club staff and stakeholders.

●      Work with the 1st team coach and/or assistant coaches as required and provide consistency between the 1st and 2nd teams through the implementation of consistent technical and tactical principles.

Performance Analysis

●      Analyse match performance using video where possible to inform coaching decisions, use it as a tool to give player feedback and facilitate squad member discussion.

●      Identify areas for improvement and implement targeted development plans.

Club Engagement

●      Act as an ambassador for St Albans Hockey Club and contribute to the broader development of men’s/women’s hockey with the club.

Time Commitment

●      Attend and deliver 2nd team squad/team training on a Tuesday and Thursday evening.

●      Attend the league match at the weekend.

●      Occasional attendance at youth training and adult training to support player development.

●      Management of selection and communication.

●      Ad-hoc management of communication and attendance at management meetings.

Reporting To:

Head of Performance Hockey Development and Head of Performance Squad.

Working Alongside:

Head of Performance Squad

Head of Coaching Development

Head of Youth

Head of Club Hockey

Player Development Lead(s)

Skills and Qualities Required

●      Minimum England Hockey Level 2 Coaching qualification (or equivalent), Level 3 preferred. 

●      Ambition to, and/or experience coaching at a high-performance level

●      Strong understanding of modern hockey tactics and player development strategies

●      Aspiration to develop effective training programmes and match strategies

●      Excellent leadership and interpersonal skills

●      Ability to motivate and manage players in a competitive environment

●      Clear and consistent communicator with players, staff and club stakeholders

●      Highly organised with strong attention to detail

●      Passionate about developing talent and driving team success

●      Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends