Player Development Specialist

The Player Development Specialist for Angel City Football Club is responsible for the holistic development of each individual player on the squad. This role involves creating and implementing impactful Individual Development Plans (IDPs) that focus not only on the technical and tactical growth of the players but also on their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. The ACFC Player Development Specialist will work closely with ACFC's first team coaching staff, sports science team, strength and conditioning team, and mental health professionals to ensure each player has every resource and opportunity to achieve and surpass their potential.  

Key Responsibilities:

1. Individual Development Plans (IDPs)

• Design, implement, and continuously refine personalized IDPs for each player, focusing on their unique strengths and areas for improvement directly connected to the ACFC game model and player profiles.
• Ensure that IDPs incorporate a balance of measurable technical, tactical, physical, mental, and emotional development.
• Monitor and evaluate the progress of each player against their IDP goals through regular assessments and feedback sessions.
• Work closely with leadership to incorporate IDPs into roster construction strategies and decision-making.

2. Technical and Tactical Development

• Collaborate with ACFC coaching staff to ensure that each player's technical and tactical training aligns with the team’s overall playing philosophy.
• Provide one-on-one and small group sessions to focus on specific technical skills and tactical understanding.
• Use video analysis and data-driven insights to enhance player understanding and execution of tactical principles.

3. Physical Development

• Work with ACFC sports science and strength & conditioning teams to integrate physical development goals into each player's IDP.
• Monitor and support the implementation of personalized fitness programs that address strength, conditioning, injury prevention, and recovery.
• Track and analyze physical performance metrics to ensure players meet their physical development targets.

4. Mental and Emotional Well-Being

• Work with ACFC's sports psychologist and mental health professional consultants to support players' mental resilience and emotional well-being.
• Incorporate mental skills training (e.g., visualization, focus, stress management) into the IDPs.
• Create a safe space to support, challenge, and demand a high-performance mentality and high-performance behaviors whilst cultivating a ‘Champion's Mindset’ in every player.

5. Leadership and Personal Development

• Facilitate leadership development programs and workshops to build leadership qualities within the squad.
• Encourage and support players in taking ownership of their development, fostering characteristics and behaviors such as self-discipline, setting and measuring goals and objectives, a growth mindset, perseverance, and resilience.
• Promote a growth mindset culture within the team, encouraging continuous learning and self-improvement.

6. Communication and Collaboration

• Maintain open lines of respectful and honest communication with players, coaching staff, sports scientists, S&C staff, medical staff, and management to ensure a cohesive approach to player development.
• Regularly update and present to the coaching staff on player progress, and recommend adjustments to training or support strategies as needed.
• Act as a mentor and confidant to players, offering guidance and support as they navigate their careers and personal challenges.

7. Data and Performance Analysis

• Utilize performance analysis tools and software to track and evaluate player development and performance.
• Implement data-driven decision-making processes to refine development plans and ensure that interventions are effective.
• Present detailed reports on player development progress to the coaching staff and management.

Qualifications:

• Minimum USSF A or UEFA A License or equivalent.

Experience: 

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in player development within a professional soccer environment, preferably with high-performing women’s teams. 
• Proven track record of successfully implementing IDPs.

Skills:

• Strong understanding of soccer-specific technical, tactical, physical, and psychological development.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with players and staff.
• Proficient in the use of video analysis tools and performance-tracking software.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a high-performance environment.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.

Desired Traits:

• Empathy and Emotional Intelligence: Ability to understand and support the diverse needs of players.
• Passion for Development: A deep commitment to the holistic development of players, both on and off the field.
• Innovative Mindset: Willingness to embrace new methods, technologies, and approaches to player development.

Application Process:

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and outline your philosophy on holistic player development and provide examples of how you have implemented successful IDPs in high-performance soccer environments.

ACFC Perks & Benefits

• Fully funded comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401K plan
• Paid Parental Leave
• Cell Phone reimbursement
• Complimentary tickets to home games
• Bi-annual performance reviews
• Catered lunch (Soccer House)

Compensation

In addition to the benefits above, this role has a pay range between $110,000 to $130,000.