Assistant Coach – Youth Development Phase

Job Title: ASSISTANT COACH – YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PHASE

Department: LFC Youth Section

Reports to: Head of Youth Development Phase

Location: Inver Park/The Cliff

Contract Type: Voluntary

Job Purpose: Reporting to the Head of Youth Development Phase (YDP) the YDP Assistant Coach will be responsible for assisting in the delivery of the YDP programme at the assigned level, ensuring players are developed technically, tactically, physically and socially. All Coaches have responsibility and a duty of care to create a safe and positive environment in which our talented young people can thrive.

The post holder(s) will be assigned as Assistant Coach at one of the Youth Development Phase levels ie U13, U14, U15 and U16 and will contribute to the overarching aim of providing a talent pipeline for LFC and a route to first team football for young talented players.

Essential Criteria:

Either hold a current UEFA B Licence or be prepared to work towards achieving this within a 2 year period
Previous experience of coaching youth football
IFA Child Safeguarding Certificate
Complete a full AccessNI Enhanced disclosure
Hold or be prepared to achieve Emergency First Aid in Football
Committed, Enthusiastic and passionate about coaching young people
Ability to work as part of a team as well as using own initiative in developing players
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Excellent planning and organisational skills
Ability to implement coaching strategy and structure
Ability to motivate, support and develop others
Full driving licence

Desirable Criteria

Additional coaching qualifications

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The main responsibilities of the YDP Assistant Coach will include:-

Assist with the planning preparation and delivery of coaching sessions in the Youth Development Phase ensuring these are aligned with the Club philosophy and coaching syllabus.
Assist with the development of players technically, tactically, physically and socially in line with LFC ethos.
Assist with the organisation of logistics for all training sessions, fixtures, tournaments and YDP events.
Assist with the recording of all relevant information in respect of training sessions, fixtures and player reviews.
Responsible for the maintenance of training equipment (match balls, bibs, cones and all other relevant equipment) as required by your assigned YDP Coach.
Recommend new players for the Youth Development Phase and assist in the decision-making process regarding the recruitment and registration/retention of players.
Assist the Lead Coach with the development and delivery of detailed individual player progress reviews with players, parents.
Motivate Players and provide ongoing feedback to them in a positive, encouraging and constructive way, whilst maintaining discipline within the group.
Work with the Lead Coach and other Coaches to create and maintain a positive, fun learning environment encouraging respect, teamwork and sportsmanship. Address poor behaviour, disrespect of coaches/team-mates and bad language from Players immediately or at the earliest possible opportunity.
Address poor behaviour displayed by parents/spectators on the sidelines and if poor behaviour escalates implement sanctions in line with Parent Protocol and Codes of Practice (eg removal from pitch side; prohibit attendance at games/training sessions for a period of time etc).
Work with the Lead Coach and other relevant coaches to create effective communication channels between staff, players and parents to ensure optimal well-being and development of all YDP Players.
Build and maintain strong relationships with other coaches in the Foundation Development and Professional Development phases to ensure alignment of LFC ethos and values across all teams and at all levels.
Comply with the Code of Conduct for Coaches and Volunteers (attached) and prioritise the Health, Safety and Wellbeing of the children and young people in your care at all times. Liaise with the Head of Youth Development and/or the Designated Safeguarding /Welfare Officer for any welfare concerns.
Support and participate in team trips to competitions and tournaments.
Lead by example and maintain honesty and integrity at all times.
Be presentable, approachable and personable at all times when working with young players at the club.
Attend all coaching training sessions as required by the Head of YDP and YDP Lead Coach and participate in the Personal Development programme for coaches based on UEFA licencing.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Committed, enthusiastic and passionate about the development of players in the Youth Development Phase.

Ability to work as part of a team as well as using own initiative in developing players and coaching sessions.

Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to bring out the best in young players.

Able to communicate effectively with players, parents and fellow coaches.

Willing to follow and promote the ethos of Larne FC.

Be an Ambassador for Larne FC, presenting the Club in a positive light at all times.

Promote a positive and fun environment and be prepared to challenge inappropriate behaviour.

CLUB RESPOSNIBILITIES

Health and Safety

Take responsibility for your own health, safety and welfare, ensuring compliance with LFC’s Health and Safety Policy, Procedures and Codes of Practice.

Training & Development