FEATURED

WP Rugby seeks Pathways Defence Coach

PUBLISHED: November 9, 2022


Western Province Professional Rugby are inviting applications for the position of Pathways Defence Coach.

The successful candidate will report to the Senior Defence Coach and be responsible for the growth and development of all aspects of Defence play within the WPPR Pathway program (DHL WP U19, U20, U21, Carling Currie Cup).

Furthermore, the successful candidate will be expected to support the Senior Defence Coach to prepare the DHL Stormers for Vodacom United Rugby Championship or Heineken Champions Cup matches, as required.

This position is being offered on a 2-year fixed term full-time basis and is based in Cape Town. To apply, please email your CV and a cover letter no longer than one page to Greg Hechter at [email protected]. Please note that the closing date for applications is strictly Monday 14 November 2022 at 17h00.

Short-listed candidates will be invited to a further round of interviews. The proposed start date for the role is 1 January 2023.

WPPR is an equal opportunities employer. All applicants meeting the minimum standard will be considered for employment without attention to race, religion, orientation, gender identity or disability status.

WPPR reserves the right to withhold or delay an appointment to the position should no appropriate candidate emerge from the selection process.

Primary Purpose of Role

The role of the Pathways Defence Coach is to be responsible for the growth and development of all Defence systems and skills within the WPPR Pathway program (U19, u20, 21, Carling Currie Cup). The Coach is expected to design, develop and implement an outstanding defensive system and culture among all athletes and within the teams of WPPR.

Key Responsibilities

● Support the Head Coach and Head of Rugby with the implementation of WPPR model of play, known as “The WP Way”
● Contribute to a healthy culture of excellence at WPPR
● Support the Senior Defence Coach to design, develop and implement systems that align with the “The WP Way” and that cater for
○ Team skills (systems, technical and tactical)
○ Mini unit skills (including contact, groundwork, communication and movement)
○ Individual defence skills (including tackling, jackaling, movement and decision-making)
● Assume overall responsibility for all Defence play components of “The WP Way” in the pathway programs, under the supervision of the Senior Defence Coach
● Be an excellent teacher and model high-performance behaviours
● Work with the respective Campaign Coaches and the Head of Rugby to ensure all WPPR teams are given the best opportunity for on-field success
● Display consistent duty and care for all WPPR athletes

Role Accountabilities

Elite Squad
Assume overall responsibility for:

● Providing the Senior Defence Coach with the support and information he requires to deliver a world-class learning environment to all players and staff
● Support the Senior Defence Coach with preparation, training, coaching and review activities as he requires

Support and Assist under the direction from the Senior Defence Coach

● Match Preparation (tactics, strategy)
● Player ABCs (development plans)
● Team Culture / Behaviours
● Training Planning / Delivery / Review
● Selection & communication to players
● Match Preview / Plan & Strategy
● Match Review
● Individual Player Feedback
● Game Trends
● Team Media
● Skill Model for Skill Development
● Individual Player Skill Assessment / Development
● Individual Player / Unit Tactical Development
● Individual / Unit / Team Meetings
● WP Style of Play (WP Way)

Pathway Teams
Assume overall responsibility for:

● Plan coaching content and flow for the week based on thorough analysis and macro planning
● Analyse opposition attack & prepare player, unit and team learning
● Analyse our defence & prepare player, unit and team learning
● One-on-one with players
● Unit meetings
● Individual, Team & Unit coaching
● Actively engage other departments, including Athletic Performance, to develop & improve fundamental skills and abilities
● Evaluate players in all aspects of defence play and provide regular and constructive feedback to both players and staff
● Provide innovation within the defensive department

Support and Assist
● Skill Model for Skill Development

The successful candidate needs to have:

● Demonstrated a high level of technical knowledge of all areas of Defence play commiserate to a professional coach, with specific regard to

○ Coaching
○ High-Performance athlete development
○ Planning and performance technology
● Proven ability to create a vision, establish buy-in, execute and drive performance to achieve results.
● Proven ability to lead diverse teams and individuals.
● Excellent presentation and communication skills.
● Strong history of self-motivated professional development.
● Minimum of a Level 2 coaching qualification
● High level of cultural awareness and capability to adapt to a unique environment.
● A history of success at either national, provincial, or club/school 1st XV level