Regional Development Coach

ABOUT US

The AFL works tirelessly across all states and levels to enhance and grow the game—from grassroots to elite. We organize games, deliver events, communicate with fans, run community programs, develop coaches and umpires, collaborate with partners, support clubs, and engage with members. Our shared goal is to progress the game so everyone can share in its heritage and possibilities.

The AFL is committed to promoting and protecting the safety and wellbeing of children and young people in our care. We undertake screening processes, including verifying that the successful candidate holds a valid Working with Children / Vulnerable People check and a satisfactory criminal history record check.

We are an Equal Opportunity employer, believing that diversity and inclusion are vital to both the AFL and our communities. Our game is for everyone, and we aim to be an inclusive workplace.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged to apply.

ABOUT THE ROLE - Girls Program at Calder Cannons - This is a fixed-term role (approximately until Oct 2027).

The Regional Development Coach (RDC) will lead the development of talented young footballers (mainly aged and other coaches within a balanced talent development environment aligned with the Victorian Talent Development Philosophy. The role involves creating a positive, safe, and supportive culture.

The RDC will plan, manage, and lead a player pathway program supporting the development of athletes prepared for AFL, AFLW, or transition into State League or community football. A key focus is on individual development for both male and female athletes in the Victorian Talent Pathway.

Each region will have a dedicated RDC for the girls' program and one for the boys' program.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF

Key Accountabilities :

• Maintain a safe, inclusive, respectful, and enjoyable environment for staff and athletes.
• Focus on individual player development, providing Personal Development Plans via Smartabase.
• Facilitate collaboration between girls' and boys' programs through regular cross-program interactions.
• Provide feedback, vision edits, game and stats analysis, and reporting using platforms like Smartabase, Hudl, and Sportscode.
• Create a culturally safe environment supporting athletes from diverse backgrounds.
• Lead coaching development, focusing on community and school coaches with support from AFL coaching staff.
• Design innovative coaching methods to improve fundamentals and decision-making.
• Work with Wellbeing Coordinators to support player welfare and wellness.
• Ensure compliance with safeguarding policies, including WWCC.
• Support integration of boys' and girls' programs.
• Build relationships with local clubs, leagues, and schools to support talent development.
• Stay updated on best practices and identify future coaching talent.
• Organize weekly meetings to monitor and plan activities.
• Contribute to Victorian State Academy programs and promote the AFL talent pathway.
• Develop stakeholder relationships to achieve program goals.

OUR IDEAL TEAM MEMBER

Core Competencies :

• Minimum Level 2 AFL Coaching Accreditation or the ability to obtain it.
• Experience working with young people.
• Personal initiative and effective team work skills.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
• Proficiency with vision and presentation tools for coaching strategies.
• Operational knowledge of player analysis software like Champion Data, Sportscode, Hudl, and Smartabase.
• Ability to teach coaching methods using IT and software tools.
• A coaching philosophy aligned with the Victorian Talent Pathway.
• Technical knowledge of training methods suitable for talented players.
• Experience with talented player programs and understanding of talent development theories.
• Leadership skills and ability to motivate young athletes.
• Ability to build relationships with stakeholders including coaches, medical staff, players, and schools.
• Capacity to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Current Victorian Driver License and Working with Children Check.

Desired :

• Previous coaching success with talented or elite athletes.
• Knowledge of talent development programs in football or other sports.

OUR CULTURE

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THE PERKS

• Flexible work arrangements with "Play The Day Your Way".
• My Development program with coaching, mentoring, and formal learning.
• Health and Wellbeing programs.
• Benefits and discounts through AFL partners.
• AFL Silver Memberships for matches at Marvel Stadium and MCG.

Applications Close : 3 September 2025