Backs’ Coach

The University of Portsmouth Sport and Recreation department manage 34 sports
clubs, that offer recreational and competitive opportunities for our students. Our
competitive teams take part in a range of leagues and events against other Universities,
and are led by a student committee, with support from a team of 8 staff members who
help with training facilities, fixture coordination, travel, coaching, health and safety,
welfare, events, support services, and club development.

The University of Portsmouth Men’s Rugby club are looking for qualified and
experienced coaches to join their coaching team for the remainder of the 2025/26
season, and beyond. The successful candidate for this Backs’ Coach role will work
collaboratively with the Head Coach to lead on the training and development of back
line players.

The teams compete in the British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) weekly
leagues, with the Men’s 1st team in the South Easter Tier 1 league, the 2nd team in Tier 2,
and the 3rd team in Tier 4. The club also has a development team who train and play
friendly fixtures.

Backs’ Coach Key Responsibilities
• Plan and Deliver Coaching: Design, plan, and deliver high-quality, engaging,
and purposeful training sessions focused on core backs’ skills, in line with the
club’s playing philosophy
• Individual Player Development: Work with individual players to develop their
understanding of their own performance, set targets, and maximise their
strengths.
• Tactical Organisation: Lead on the attacking and defensive organisation of the
backline, including set plays and backline moves, to exploit opposition
weaknesses.
• Performance Analysis: Utilise video analysis tools where available to review
team and individual performance and provide constructive feedback.
• Match Day Duties: Attend fixtures and manage the match-day squad, advising
on selection in coordination with other coaches.
• Collaboration & Communication: Work effectively with other coaching staff to
implement training plans, and maintain excellent communication with the
student committee, players, coaches, and Sport and Recreation staff. Support
the student committee with the planning and delivery of annual events, where
required.
• Safeguarding & Conduct: Adhere to all safeguarding, health and safety, and
code of conduct policies and reporting processes, including the Team UOP
Charter, acting as a positive role model for all players.
Essential Qualifications and Experience
• RFU Level 2 Coaching Award (or equivalent)
• Significant experience in coaching rugby
• Proven ability to plan, deliver, and evaluate coaching sessions.
• Strong interpersonal, leadership, and communication skills.
• Ability to obtain an enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check, and
appropriate coaching insurance.

 

This will be a voluntary position to support our current coaches for the remainder
of 25/26 (finish date 10th May 2026), with a paid position available from September
2026.