Location: Sale Sharks Training Ground, Carrington.
Reports to: Director of Rugby & Academy Manager
The Role
Sale Sharks are seeking an Academy Transition Coach (Forwards) to play a key role in the development and progression of players within our Senior Academy programme. Working as part of a multidisciplinary performance team, the successful candidate will be responsible for planning and delivering high quality developmental and performance training programmes, with a specific focus on forwards and set piece delivery.
This role is central to preparing academy players for competition with associate loan clubs, Sharks development fixtures, and ultimately progression towards first grade inclusion.
Key Objectives
- Support the short, medium and long term player development strategy of the club
- Assist in the delivery and day to day running of the Sale Sharks Senior Academy programme
- Contribute to the U18 Elite Academy Player (EAP) programme to ensure alignment across the player pathway
- Prepare players for performance opportunities across development and professional environments
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver Senior Academy coaching with a primary focus on forwards play and set piece execution
- 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 when required
- Monitor and review player development and performance, working closely with all relevant stakeholders
- Deliver preseason, in season and postseason reviews for all Senior Academy EAP players, producing detailed written Individual Development Plans (IDPs)
- Conduct case conference reviews for Senior Academy forwards three times per season
- Design and implement positional intervention programmes for identified players
- Contribute to the planning and delivery of weekly, monthly and annual training cycles
- Work collaboratively with England Academy coaches to develop nationally identified elite players
- Provide monthly support to the U18 programme, including delivery of training sessions with EAP players
- Work in partnership with the RFU and Premiership Rugby to achieve programme objectives
- Deliver all relevant information required for the annual academy audit
Essential Skills & Experience
- Strong and current understanding of elite player development frameworks
- Relevant experience coaching within a professional rugby environment
- Highly developed analytical skills to support individual and team performance outcomes
- Excellent communication, leadership and people development skills
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively
Additional Information
- The role requires flexibility to work unsociable hours, including evenings, weekends and bank holidays
- The post holder may be required to undertake additional responsibilities appropriate to the role
- This position is subject to Disclosure procedures
- The job description may be varied by mutual agreement to reflect the evolving needs of the programme
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
