Squash Ireland is the National Governing Body for Squash on the island of Ireland. The organisation has experienced significant growth with the number of affiliated clubs, members, coaches, tournaments, and leagues increasing. A major restructuring has also taken place with the move to a strategically focused board of directors and growth in staffing from two to eight over the past 18 months.
The inclusion of squash in the LA 2028 Olympics has injected new energy and focused attention on developing a world-class high-performance programme to nurture talent and provide players with the necessary support to compete at European, World and Olympic level. Squash Ireland players have reached the pinnacle of the sport and there is a proud history of Irish players competing at the highest levels of the game.
Following the appointment of a Head Coach in November 2024, Squash Ireland is further developing the high performance unit seeking to appoint a Junior Performance Coach and Junior Development Coach to oversee the junior performance programme and develop a pathway for young players.
The Junior Development Coach position is initially offered on a 12-month fixed-term contract.
Role
The successful candidate will work with the CEO and Head Coach to implement the High-Performance Strategy 2025-2028 and the high-performance components of Squash Ireland’s Connecting the Dots 2024-2028 Strategic Plan. A key focus of this plan is establishing professional structures and systems for junior performance players. The Junior Development Coach will oversee the development of identified U13 and U15 players and provide support across the talent pathway from U13 to Senior levels.
Reporting Structure
The Junior Development Coach will report to the Head Coach and lead the delivery of a performance programme for U13 and U15 players. They will be required to develop strong working relationships with Squash Ireland staff, the High-Performance Working Group, club and personal coaches, and a wide range of funders and stakeholders involved in performance sport both in Ireland and internationally.
Key Responsibilities
• In conjunction with the Head Coach, lead and manage a Junior Performance Programme for the U13 and U15 cohorts.
• Create and run an effective coaching programme for players and teams so that they can compete successfully at the highest level. This includes developing appropriate annual training programmes covering pre-season as well as competitive season programmes.
• Deliver Junior Performance Academy coaching for identified U13 and U15 players.
• Coordinate and drive the delivery of performance support services (sports science, sports medicine, strength and conditioning, nutrition, video analysis, sports psychology etc) as appropriate for the specific age cohort.
• Develop and refine policies and procedures as required, which may include selection, team management, coaching practice, athlete agreements, and allocation of funding and resources.
• Ensure a high standard of delivery across all High Performance Unit operations, including squad training sessions, travel, preparation, and participation in international competitions.
• In conjunction with the Head Coach and Finance Officer, contribute to the budgeting process and ensure effective management of the High Performance Unit budget.
• Undertake various administrative tasks related to the role, working with office-based staff on the logistics associated with High Performance Programme delivery.
• Elevate standards within the High Performance Unit reflective of a high performance programme striving for excellence at European, World and Olympic level.
• Disseminate best practices and ways of working among national, provincial and club coaches to positively influence the development of young players across the island of Ireland.
• Lead and manage teams representing Ireland at international tournaments.
Essential Requirements
• Be eligible and willing to work in Ireland, with international travel required.
• Full unrestricted driver’s licence and sound driving record.
Essential Skills and Experience
• Significant experience in a similar or comparable role.
• Proven success in coaching and developing young players to compete at a high level in squash.
• Relevant qualification in sport/exercise science/coaching, sports management, or a related discipline is desirable; or equivalent significant workplace experience.
• Experience in junior programme management involving players, parents, coaches, and service providers.
• Excellent organisational, administrative, and time-management skills.
• Excellent leadership, communication, player management, and motivation skills.
• Major event experience at Junior and/or Senior European and World level is desirable.
Further Information
• Part-time approximately equivalent to 2.5 days per week
• 12-month Fixed-Term Contract (with the possibility of an extension subject to funding).
• The Squash Ireland Office is located on the Sport Ireland Campus, Dublin 15. Flexible and remote working arrangements are available.
• Salary is dependent on experience.
The appointment will be made subject to satisfactory:
• Garda Vetting/Access NI Checks.
• Reference Checking Procedures.
How to Apply?
Applications must be sent by email with the subject line: [ATTN: Junior Development Coach]. When applying by email, please include a letter of introduction detailing your skills and experience relevant to the role and your Curriculum Vitae outlining your skills and work experience. Please send these materials no later than the 22nd of January 2025 to Squash Ireland at scott.graham@squashireland.ie.
Squash Ireland is an equal opportunity employer, celebrating diversity and championing inclusivity. If you require any reasonable accommodations to assist you in participating in the employee selection process, please simply let us know.