Overall Purpose: Sandal RUFC is seeking an Academy Boys Lead Coach for the 2026-27 rugby season to co-inside with the full launch of the clubs Academy model with the vision to develop one of the strongest, inclusive and sustainable Academy models in the region by 2029.
POSITION OVERVIEW
The successful applicant will join us during the summer of 2026 as part of our wider Academy coaching team, contributing significantly to the delivery of our Academy Boys Programme and be responsible for delivering high-quality coaching, developing athletes at all skill levels, and fostering a positive, competitive, and inclusive team culture. This role is central to supporting the long-term success and growth of Academy age range within the club.
Key Responsibilities
COACHING & PLAYER DEVELOPMENT
• Plan, deliver, and review engaging training sessions aligned with the club’s playing philosophy and team goals.
• Provide technical, tactical, physical, and mental development support for players.
• Support and engage in individual player development plans.
• Lead the team during match days, including selection, pre-game preparation, and in-game management.
• Ensure all coaching activities promote player safety, welfare, and enjoyment.
LEADERSHIP & TEAM CULTURE
• Build an inclusive, supportive environment that encourages participation, decision making, commitment, and high standards to develop players to their potential.
• Promote the values of Sandal RUFC, acting as a role model for players and staff.
• Develop strong communication channels between players, club management, medical staff, and other coaches.
PROGRAMME MANAGEMENT
• Coordinate and collaborate with assistant coaches, team managers and medical personnel.
• Work within the annual and quarterly training calendars, preseason preparation, and team objectives.
• Support the club’s long-term development strategy for boys and girls
Academy rugby.
• Help identify, recruit, and retain players including outreach sessions in local schools, universities, and community programmes to strengthen squad depth and competitiveness.
• Ensure smooth progression for developing players transitioning from junior academy pathways and from Senior Academy pathways into Senior Rugby
• Prepare players for adult and university life, and beyond through development of educational, nutritional, long term athletic development and psychosocial skills.

ADMINISTRATION & COMPLIANCE
• Ensure training sessions and matches comply with RFU regulations and best practices.
• Complete match preparation tasks such as team sheets, video analysis reviews, and performance feedback.
• Attend club meetings as required.
• Report directly to Chris Robinson Head of Academy Rugby and operate within the agreed Academy strategy and performance framework.
• Work closely with Rodger Lambert and Tim Wicks, Director of Academy Rugby/Director of Rugby, to ensure alignment with the club’s long-term player pathway.
• Collaborate with the Academy Head Coach for Girls Rugby and the Director of Girls Rugby to ensure consistency, continuity and high standards across the U16–U18 age groups.

Ideal Candidates Will Have:
• Strong coaching and rugby leadership experience.
• Significant coaching experience within Youth, Academy, or adult rugby teams.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• A commitment to player development and club culture.

Qualifications
Essential:
• Relevant coaching qualifications. Minimum Level 3 rugby coaching qualification or working towards.
• Current Safeguarding and RFU DBS.

Personal Attributes
• Enthusiastic, approachable, and player focused.
• Passionate about advancing youth rugby.
• Reliable, proactive, and committed to continuous improvement.
• Able to inspire confidence and commitment within the squad.
Time Commitment
• Two weekly training sessions (evenings).
• Matchdays (typically weekends).
• Attendance at planning meetings, preseason events, and club activities as required.
Remuneration
• Competitive monthly retainer available for this position and will be discussed during the interview process dependent on experience.
We invite all qualified individuals who are passionate about rugby and eager to contribute to the continued growth of the Sandal RUFC and be part of an innovative and progressive journey to apply.
To Apply:
Please send your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your experience and vision for the role to:
Chris Robinson, Head of Academy Rugby at sandalruacademy@gmail.com
Applications will be accepted until March 31st, 2026.