Job Overview
Player Development Program (PDP) Lead Reports to the Technical Director
Position Summary
The Player Development Program (PDP) Lead provides leadership for New Frontier Soccer Club's U14–U17 Player Development Program, with teams competing in the Alberta Player Development League (APDL).
The role is responsible for ensuring a consistent, player-centered environment aligned with the club's philosophy. The PDP Lead oversees coach development, player progression, curriculum delivery and performance support while serving as Head Coach of one PDP team.
The role also works closely with coaches and players within the club's Pre-PDP Program to support player progression and create a seamless transition into the Player Development Program.
Key Responsibilities:
Program Leadership
- Lead the planning and continual development of the U14–U17 Player Development Program.
- Develop annual calendars and learning objectives.
- Ensure consistent implementation of the club's playing philosophy across all PDP teams.
- Work collaboratively with the Technical Director to continually improve the programme.
Coach Leadership & Development
- Recruit, assign and mentor PDP coaches.
- Observe training sessions and matches, providing regular feedback.
- Lead coach meetings and support ongoing coach education.
- Promote collaboration and consistent coaching standards across the programme.
Team Coaching
- Serve as Head Coach of at least one PDP team.
- Plan and deliver high-quality training sessions and matchdays.
- Model best coaching practice for staff.
Player Development
- Oversee player assessments and Individual Development Plans.
- Monitor player progression and pathway opportunities.
- Support player call-ups and transitions.
- Meet with players and families when appropriate.
Curriculum & Performance
- Develop and maintain the PDP curriculum.
- Deliver classroom learning and video analysis sessions.
- Create coaching resources aligned with the club philosophy.
- Work alongside Sports Science staff to support athlete development, load management and player wellbeing.
Pathway Development
- Work closely with coaches and players in the club's Pre-PDP Program, supporting player progression and creating a seamless pathway into the Player Development Program.
- Observe Development Phase training and matches to identify future PDP players.
- Support annual evaluations and talent identification.
Administration & Communication
- Coordinate annual planning and coach allocations.
- Maintain player development records.
- Lead parent education and player review meetings.
- Support wider technical projects as required.
Core Leadership Expectations
The PDP Lead will:
- Champion the New Frontier Soccer Club philosophy and values.
- Inspire, mentor and support coaches.
- Create a positive, inclusive and challenging learning environment.
- Build strong relationships with players and families.
- Lead with professionalism, integrity and accountability.
- Commit to continual learning and innovation.
Qualifications
- Canada Soccer A Diploma (or equivalent) preferred. Strong candidates holding a Canada Soccer B License will also be considered.
- Experience coaching high-performance youth players.
- Experience leading or mentoring coaches.
- Excellent communication and organizational skills.
- Experience using video analysis and collaborating with sports science staff
Pay: From $70,000.00 per year
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
