AFLW Rehabilitation Coach

We are seeking an experienced and dedicated part time Rehabilitation Coach to join St Kilda Football Club’s AFLW program. This role plays a key part in supporting the safe and effective return of athletes to high performance training and match play. With a strong foundation in evidence based physical preparation, the position contributes to an environment where players can confidently progress through each stage of their rehabilitation and build the capacity required for elite football. Reporting to the AFLW High Performance Manager, the Rehabilitation Coach is responsible for designing and delivering tailored physical preparation and reconditioning programs for AFLW athletes. The role plays a central part in the return to play process, guiding athletes through strength development, movement competency, and fitness benchmarks. This position supports players through the full rehabilitation journey, ensuring a clear transition from injury management back to high performance demands. KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES: Rehabilitation Plan and deliver individualised rehabilitation programs for injured athletes in alignment with medical and physiotherapy staff Manage the full return to play process, including strength, reconditioning, movement competency, fitness benchmarks, and reintegration to football Conduct regular assessments such as strength testing, range of motion measures, and movement screening to monitor recovery progress Collaborate closely with physios, doctors, and the High Performance Manager to align rehabilitation and reconditioning phases Communicate clearly with coaching staff regarding athlete status, restrictions, and timelines High Performance Assist the High Performance Manager in planning and delivering high performance and physical preparation programs, including speed, change of direction, and conditioning Deliver gym floor coaching for both main group sessions and individual rehabilitation programs Lead the delivery of on field warm ups and strength sessions as required EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS: Degree in Exercise Science, Human Movement, or a related field (postgraduate qualifications preferred) ASCA Level 2 or higher, or equivalent strength and conditioning accreditation Minimum three to five years’ experience in elite sport, including hands on rehabilitation and strength and conditioning delivery Proven experience designing and implementing return to play programs for high performance athletes Familiarity with athlete monitoring systems such as Catapult and VALD, and competency in basic data analysis Strong understanding of AFL athletic demands, injury profiles, and periodisation strategies Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to work effectively with players and staff Knowledge of soft tissue and overuse injuries common in AFL environments Ability to work irregular hours including weekends and travel as required Current Working with Children’s Check WHAT WE OFFER Free access to Aquatics Facilities at the Danny Frawley Centre for Health & Wellbeing Free parking onsite & state-of-the-art gym access Discounted Saints memberships and merchandise Up to 40% discount on selected NEW BALANCE products Incredibly generous discounts on Westinghouse products Amazing discounts from our friends at Loewe televisions and coffee machines Saints-only Linen House product pricing Discounted movie tickets through Hoyts Research shows that while men apply to jobs when they meet an average of 60% of the criteria, women and other marginalised folks tend to only apply when they check every box. So, if you think you have what it takes, but don't necessarily meet every single point above, please still get in touch. We'd love to have a chat and see if you could be a great fit. Be careful – Don’t provide your bank or credit card details when applying for jobs. Don't transfer any money or complete suspicious online surveys. If you see something suspicious, report this job ad. #J-18808-Ljbffr