Location: Sale Sharks Training Ground, Carrington.
Reports to: Director of Rugby & Academy Manager
The Role
Sale Sharks are seeking an Academy Transition Coach (Backs) to support the development and progression of players within our Senior Academy programme. This is a key role within our multidisciplinary performance team, focused on preparing elite young players for professional rugby, including transition into first grade environments.
You will be responsible for the planning and delivery of high quality developmental and performance training programmes, with a specific focus on backs and positional skill development, while supporting both short and long term player pathways.
Key Objectives
- Support the short, medium and long term player development objectives of the club
- Assist in the delivery and day to day running of the Sale Sharks Senior Academy programme
- Contribute to the U18 EAP programme and ensure continuity across the academy pathway
- Prepare players for competition within associate loan clubs, Sharks development fixtures and potential first team inclusion
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver Senior Academy coaching with a primary focus on backs positional skill development
- Design and coach training sessions for Senior Academy players and the wider first team squad as required
- Coach and deliver non23 and reserve grade training and playing programmes, including the Premiership Cup where required
- Monitor, review and report on player development and performance, liaising with internal and external stakeholders
- Deliver preseason, in season and postseason reviews for all Senior Academy EAP players, producing written Individual Development Plans (IDPs)
- Conduct case conference reviews with Senior Academy players three times per season
- Develop and implement targeted positional intervention programmes for identified players
- Contribute to weekly, monthly and annual training and performance planning cycles
- Work collaboratively with England Academy coaches to support the development of nationally identified players
- Provide monthly support to the U18 programme, including delivery of training sessions for EAP players
- Work closely with the RFU and Premier Rugby to meet all programme and performance objectives
- Deliver all required information for the annual academy audit
Essential Skills & Experience
- Strong, up to date understanding of elite player development pathways
- Proven experience coaching within a professional rugby environment
- Highly developed analytical skills to support individual and team performance
- Excellent communication, leadership and people development skills
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage time effectively in a fast paced environment
Additional Requirements
- Ability to work unsociable hours, including evenings, weekends and bank holidays
- Willingness to undertake additional duties as reasonably required and aligned with the role
This job description reflects the role at the time of publication and may be subject to change following consultation with the post holder.
How to Apply
To apply, please send your CV, a short covering letter outlining your suitability for the role, and your salary expectations to people@salesharks.com
Further information:
Closing date for applications: Friday 17th April 2026
