PART-TIME - Performance Coach, Academy

POSITION SUMMARY

The Part-Time Performance Coach, Academy, is responsible for supporting the physical development, health, safety, and performance of Academy players on the field and in the gym while complying with all applicable MLS and MLS NEXT policies and protocols. Specifically, this person will be responsible for strength and movement development, training and match preparation, on-field performance coaching, physical testing, athlete monitoring, recovery, and individualized player support.

Thus, the ideal candidate is a motivated performance professional who is passionate, curious, and eager to grow within an elite player-development environment. 

This role reports to the Performance Manager.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Support the delivery of strength, conditioning, and training programs for Academy players in alignment with the Club's curriculum, methodology, and leadership instruction.
• Conduct and support on-field performance coaching, including but not limited to, speed, agility, movement skills, physical preparation, and age-appropriate athletic development.
• Support match-day performance responsibilities, including pre-match activation, team warm-ups, substitute preparation, and post-game physical loading. 
• Assist with the collection, organization, and monitoring of player performance information using data systems, such as Catapult GPS and VALD Performance.
• Conduct physical testing protocols and maintain accurate records of testing, training-load, and player-development information.
• Work cross-functionally with the Performance and Medical teams on individualized player preparation, activation, recovery, and return-to-play programming.
• Assist and support with the implementation of team and individual periodization plans.
• Deliver activation, recovery, and regeneration sessions as needed.
• Observe player performance analyzing player readiness, physical development, training response, and other potential areas of concern to communicate to staff. 
• Build positive, professional relationships with Academy players to promote an environment of learning, accountability, development, and high performance.
• Collaborate effectively with Performance, Medical, Technical, and other Academy staff in support of individual player and team development.
• Participate actively in ongoing professional development and continuous education, including but not limited to academic and sports science research, mentorship, observation, and frequent feedback reviews.
• Continuously develop knowledge and competency within LAFC’s performance systems, processes, curriculum, and methodology to support player-development decisions
• Other duties and tasks as designated by Supervisor/Management.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Physical Education, Sports Science, or a related field, or National Federation equivalent, required.
• Minimum 2 years of practical experience in strength and conditioning and sports performance required, preferably in soccer, youth athlete development, collegiate athletics, or in an academy environment.
• Pursuing or earned Strength and Conditioning certification through the NSCA, UKSCA, ASCA, or equivalent internationally recognized organization preferred. 
• Must be CPR/AED certified or have the ability to obtain certification prior to beginning the role.
• Foundational understanding of strength and conditioning, athletic development, and training principles and best practices required.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to quickly build trust and relationships with players and staff. 
• Ability to handle highly sensitive and confidential information.
• Must be able to work successfully in a fast-paced environment while managing multiple tasks at once with frequent changes and interruptions. 
• Ability to communicate effectively and efficiently in English - both verbal and written
• Ability to serve as an extension of the club and maintain a professional appearance and attitude at all times. 
• Flexible schedule with the ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays as required.

SALARY RANGE 

At LAFC, we carefully consider a wide range of factors to determine a fair and equitable compensation package. The final offer amount will consider a wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including, but not limited to skill sets; relevant experience and training. Pursuant to state and local pay disclosure guidelines, the compensation for this role is $27.50 per hour.