Head Coach

Head Coach - Top End Youth Academy AFL - Australian Football League About Us As an organisation, the AFL works tirelessly in all states and at all levels to enhance and grow the game – from grassroots to elite. Together, we put on the game, deliver important events, communicate with our fans, run community programs, develop coaches and umpires, collaborate with partners, delight members, support clubs and so much more. While our roles may vary, we are all united by a common goal, to progress the game for everyone to love and connect with Australia’s game. We are an Equal Opportunity employer and firmly believe that diversity and inclusion is an important part of both the AFL and the communities in which we operate. Our game is for everyone, and we strive to be a workplace for everyone. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged to apply. About The Role The Head Coach - Top End Youth Academy position presents an exciting opportunity to drive the development of the next group of talented Northern Territory footballers (boys and girls). The position will deliver a development program predominantly aimed at 10‑15 year old players in the Top End. The program will be designed to ensure that there is a strong emphasis on fundamental skill development, analysis and strong feedback systems. There is also a strong emphasis on the development of Indigenous talent throughout the Top End. This is a 21‑month max‑term position ending January 2028, with an annual closure period from December to January . During this period applications will not be responded to. A Day in the Life The role will lead the delivery of the Top End Youth Academy Program for girls and boys in the 10‑15 age bracket with the prime responsibility to develop the fundamental skills of these talented young footballers prior to graduating to the U’16 and U’18 NT Talent program. Key Responsibilities Develop fundamental skills of 10‑15 year old players. Ensure a safe, inclusive, respectful and enjoyable environment for all involved. Work with the Top End Youth Academy Manager and NT Talent Manager to provide a program that flows into the NT U’16 programmes. Facilitate the provision of regular player feedback, vision edits and skill analysis utilising Smartabase, Hudl and Sportscode. Utilize research to identify and improve injury prevention long term in athletes. Identify and develop athletes from diverse backgrounds by creating a culturally safe high‑performance environment. Collaborate and communicate with community clubs in establishing and building the Academy program. Design and implement innovative methods to improve the Academy Coaches and ensure a consistent approach to developing skill fundamentals. Consider the players’ long‑term participation in football at a variety of levels. Promote a holistic approach to the players’ life in accordance with the AFL Talent pathway overarching development philosophy of “better people, better players”. Talent Identification and Selection Collaborate internally and externally to identify talented players within the region, including those from diverse backgrounds or other sports. Liaise with AFL NT staff, local community football leagues and schools. Ideal Team Member Passionate about the individual development of talented players and yourself as a coach. Well‑developed IT skills. Strong verbal and written communication, interpersonal and presentation skills. Experience in working with the development of young people. Strong cross cultural skills including experience working with Indigenous youth. Demonstrated personal initiative and ability to work effectively in a team environment. Sound background and knowledge of coaching principles. Skill analytical experience and ability to create consistent approaches to development of fundamental skills. Must be able to commit to working nights and some weekends. Exposure to talented player programmes and a strong understanding of talent development theories and practice. A coaching philosophy, ethics and attitude that represent and align with AFL/AFLW Development Coaching and AFL Talent programmes. Capacity to develop and sustain productive relationships with all stakeholders, particularly with other talent pathway coaches, operational leads, high‑performance & medical staff, players, their parents and schools. Current Driver Licence and a current Working with Children Check. Desirable Previous successful skill acquisition/coaching experience with talented and/or elite athletes. Demonstrated knowledge of talent development programmes in football or other sports. AFL Silver Coach Accreditation (previously Level 2) or working towards an AFL Coaching accreditation. Our Culture Please visit Perks Play The Day Your Way – a flexible approach to your working life. My Development – lean into the AFL’s My Development programme consisting of on‑the‑job training, coaching and mentoring, and formal learning. Play Well – access to our extensive Health and Wellbeing programme centred around a healthy body, healthy mind, and healthy workplace. My Benefits – with thanks to our AFL Corporate Partners, access great benefits and discounts. Applications Close 19 January 2026 Seniority level Mid‑Senior level Employment type Full‑time Job function Other #J-18808-Ljbffr