Men's 1st XI Coach

To achieve our aims we need a dynamic and forward-thinking coach. Successful applicants will need to bring a competitive nature, excellent relationship development skills, innovative match day strategies and creative training ideas that bring the most out of the squad.

Having a holistic approach to coaching is also vital to ensure the Men's section operates as a cohesive unit with seamless pathways between the top two sides. In return, the club is open to listening to recommendations and requests to ensure you are equipped to deliver on the club's objectives.

The role begins with pre-season training and friendlies in August prior to the start of the league. Training and home matches during the regular season are held at the Lee Valley Tennis and Hockey Centre with full use of facilities which run between September and April. This will be reviewed with the new surface installed at Walthamstow Academy.

This would ideally be a long-term appointment with a yearly review at the end of every season with accountabilities agreed prior to the commencement of the season.

Duties include but are not limited to:

Plan and deliver training sessions suitable for a team playing in East Premier Division and above
Attend all match days at weekends (including a warm up and post-match debrief)
Take part in weekly club and team selection
Deliver effective team tactics on match days with adaptability
Work with Performance Officer, Mens Club Captain, and Men's 1st & 2nd XI Captains on development, selection, training sessions and team tactics, ensuring that open communication is upheld throughout the entire season
Help identify leading young players across WFHC, working with other coaches and captains to manage their development towards the Men's performance teams
Monitor performance and provide feedback to players
We will also consider the possibility of a Player/Coach for the right candidate.

You will need a minimum UK Level 2 coaching Qualification, or at least working towards this qualification, or equivalent. You must be eligible to work in the UK and hold a valid UK/EU passport or valid work permit and speak a good standard of English.

Experience of coaching at a high level is desirable, preferably at national level competition.

Waltham Forest Hockey Club is looking for a new Men's 1st XI Head Coach to develop the squad and help us build towards our goal of progressing through the East League structure.

The Club

Waltham Forest Hockey Club (WFHC) aspires to be the most progressive and inclusive field hockey club in North East London. Founded in 1989 we were recognised as England Hockey's Club of the Season 2013 and we are ambitious about laying foundations for future success. The club continues to attract players throughout North-East London with a brand new surface laid at Walthamstow Academy, and state of the art facility at Lee Valley Hockey & Tennis centre.

The Squad

The 2023/24 season has been one of transition and a handful of significant changes present exciting opportunities for a new head coach. The squad is a well blended mix of experience and young talent, supported by our thriving youth system with over 150+ members.

The squad comfortably retained its place in Premier Division 1S within East League with a strong second half of the season. The focus for season 24/25 will firmly be to aim for promotion. The Mens 2s squad also challenged for promotion in division 3SE. There is also a strong club development structure running through all five teams.

This is a paid position with remuneration to be confirmed based upon qualifications, experience and the final role agreed upon.

Location: Lee Valley Tennis and Hockey Centre, East London & Walthamstow Academy, North East London.

Salary: Competitive and negotiable