U18 Athletic Development Coach

Job Title:  U18 Athletic Development Coach

Department:  Academy Performance Department

Reporting:  Primary: Lead Academy Athletic Development Coach; Secondary: Lead Academy Sport Scientist

Location:  Training Ground – Jersey Road

Salary:  Competitive

Brentford FC is a bit different to other Premier League football clubs. We put our fans first, we are a true community club and while we are financially sustainable, we are not afraid to take calculated risks. We take huge pride in our environment and culture within the Club which focuses on development, inclusion and not being afraid to think differently.

Being progressive, humble and respectful while sticking together as one team across the Club guides how we work and the decisions we make each day.

We also firmly believe that a diverse workforce is a better workforce which will help us develop ideas, solve problems and ultimately grow Brentford FC.

We play in a brand-new stadium, 15 minutes from Heathrow in vibrant west London.

We will never forget where we have come from, but we are excited about the future that lies ahead.

Come join us.

Inclusion Statement

Brentford FC is an organisation which values and is passionate about diversity and inclusivity. We welcome and encourage applications from qualified candidates, including those from underrepresented groups – such as those from ethnically diverse backgrounds, women, those from the LGBTQ+ community and those with disabilities. Should you require any workplace accommodations (also known as ‘reasonable adjustments’), you will have the opportunity to let us know at appropriate points in the hiring process.

Safeguarding Statement

Brentford FC is committed to equality, the safeguarding and welfare of all children and adults at risk. This responsibility is shared by all staff and volunteers at the club, safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. Staff will be required to undertake regular safeguarding training to enable and reinforce a proactive approach to safeguarding. This role requires the post holder to apply all relevant policies and uphold the club’s commitment to safeguarding vulnerable people to ensure a safe environment for all. This includes the timely reporting of any safeguarding concern to the safeguarding team. We remind those barred from regulated activity that it is an offence to apply for such positions.

Please note that where appropriate for the role, you may be required to complete additional background checks such as Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and this will include any time living or working outside of the UK in the last 10 years. You can find out more about this at

Please also note that a CV application will not be sufficient. Applications will not be considered where the application form has not been completed in full.

If the role you are applying for involves regulated activity and you have been shortlisted for a first stage interview, you will be asked to fill out a Declaration of Offences Form.

The role of the U18 Athletic Development Coach

Brentford FC has an exciting opportunity for an experienced Athletic Development Coach to join the Academy Performance Department. In alignment with the Academy vision of being admired as the most caring and progressive Academy in the world, the successful candidate will lead the design, delivery and continual evaluation of all areas of physical and athletic development for the U18 squad within the PDP.

Main Accountabilities

• Lead the creation and delivery of a comprehensive physical and athletic development programme for U18 players in alignment with the Performance Department objectives.
• In collaboration with the Academy Performance Scientist, collect and analyse the U18 GPS data for training and matches, ensuring alignment with club philosophies.
• Working in conjunction with the U18 Physiotherapist, ensure effective daily communication between Performance Department staff and coaching staff.
• In collaboration with the Academy Performance Scientist, implement a robust recovery strategy to U18 players, ensuring age-appropriate methods in alignment with club-wide principles.
• Working in conjunction with the Academy Performance Scientist, regularly collect, analyse & report physical monitoring data in alignment with ‘Performance Excellence’ objectives.
• Through detailed contribution into the Academy’s Individual Development Plan (IDP) process, evaluate and guide on athletic development progress to all U18 players, their families and relevant key stakeholders.
• In collaboration with the Lead Academy Athletic Development Coach, contribute in a progressive manner to the Academy’s Athletic Development strategy.
• Support and mentor casual Athletic Development Coaches within the U18 programme, being accountable for their performance and development.
• Conduct weekly 1-to-1 reviews with direct reports to track objectives and support practitioner needs.
• Collaborate with the Academy Nutritionist to ensure optimal, age-appropriate nutrition delivery for U18 players.
• Work as part of an inter-disciplinary Performance Department with an athlete-centered approach at the heart of all objectives.
• Work matchdays with the U18s and travel on specific tours throughout the year.
• Contribute to the creation and delivery of an age-appropriate sports science education curriculum for players, parents and staff.
• Have comprehensive knowledge of the Premier League’s Youth Development Rules.
• Maintain awareness of safeguarding responsibilities specific to working with U18 players, ensuring that any concerns observed or raised are shared with the Safeguarding Team through appropriate channels.

General Club Accountabilities

• To ensure compliance with all relevant Club policies, including health and safety policies and with specific reference to the data regulations.
• To ensure compliance with all relevant legal, regulatory, ethical, and social requirements.
• To ensure compliance with all Matchday Safeguarding processes and the Club’s Safeguarding Policy and processes.
• To ensure compliance with the Club’s Code of Conduct.
• To promote equity, diversity and inclusion at the Club, in line with our EDI strategy
• To build and maintain good working relationships both internally and externally, maintaining a professional image at all times when representing Brentford FC
• To keep confidential any information gained regarding the Club and its personnel.
• To maintain a flexible approach to work at all times.
• Any other relevant tasks and duties as directed by your line manager

Key Internal Relationships

• Academy Performance Department
• Academy Coaching Department
• Academy Player Support Department
• Head of Academy Performance

Person Specification - Essential Personal Characteristics

• BSc in Sport Science / Strength and Conditioning or equivalent
• MSc (or MRes) in relevant field
• FA EFAiF qualification or ability to obtain within 6 months
• Demonstratable experience of working with technological equipment (STATSports GPS, VALD Performance Products, Polar HR Monitoring Systems, or equivalents)
• High level of communication and interpersonal skills
• Experience of and strong desire to work with junior athletes
• Capability to devise and deliver a syllabus of work
• Possess the drive and motivation to set high standards and achieve company objectives
• Have a personable approach
• Ability to liaise with footballers, coaches, management and other football related individuals in a professional manner
• Flexible and happy to work evenings and weekends

Person Specification - Desirable Characteristics

• British Assocation of Sport and Exercises Science (BASES) Accreditation
• UKSCA Accreditation
• Full UK driving licence

Closing date for applications: Friday 15 August 2025