At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and coordinate the delivery of football training for young athletes in Cairns.
- Company: Gold Coast SUNS Academy, dedicated to developing talented footballers.
- Benefits: Competitive hourly rate, professional development, and supplied Academy apparel.
- Other info: Casual role from November 2026 to October 2027 with great career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on young athletes' lives while enjoying the footy culture.
- Qualifications: Experience coaching youth, Level 1 AFL Coaching Accreditation, and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 38.24 - 38.24 $ per hour.
The Gold Coast SUNS Academy plays an important role in developing talented young footballers and creating a pathway for them to grow, both as athletes and as people. We're looking for an Academy Regional Coordinator to lead the delivery of our Academy program in Cairns. This is a hands-on role for someone who enjoys working with young athletes, can bring people together, and wants to contribute to the development of football talent in the region.
Reporting to the SUNS Academy Manager, you'll work closely with our Cairns-based coaches, players and families, alongside the broader SUNS Academy team and local football community.
What you'll be doing
- Coordinate and support the day-to-day delivery of Academy training in Cairns
- Help create a safe, inclusive and enjoyable environment where young athletes can develop
- Work with coaches to deliver training aligned with the SUNS Academy curriculum and player development approach
- Prepare and oversee training sessions, equipment and resources
- Manage session administration, including attendance, communications, training programs and injury reporting
- Build strong relationships with players, parents and guardians, coaches and key local stakeholders
- Work with Academy staff to identify development opportunities for individual players and the broader program
- Coach training sessions and work directly with athletes when required
- Support the identification and development of talented athletes from diverse backgrounds.
What we're looking for
- Has experience coaching or working with young people
- Holds a minimum Level 1 AFL Coaching Accreditation, or is willing and able to obtain it
- Understands talented player identification and development
- Can lead, motivate and develop young athletes
- Builds positive relationships and communicates well with players, families, coaches and stakeholders
- Is organised, proactive and comfortable managing the practical details that keep a program running smoothly
- Works well as part of a broader team while being confident working independently in Cairns
- Holds a current Blue Card (Working with Children Check).
Level 2 AFL Coaching Accreditation, experience working with talented or elite athletes, familiarity with football platforms such as HUDL, Team App or TeamWorks, and a current Queensland driver licence would be well regarded.
The opportunity
This is a casual position, commencing November 2026 through to October 2027, paid at a flat rate of $38.24 per hour. You'll also receive supplied Academy apparel and access to SUNS, AFL, AFLW and Academy coaching resources and professional development opportunities.
If you're passionate about developing young people, love footy and want to play an important role in building the talent pathway in Cairns, we'd love to hear from you.
Academy Regional Coordinator – Cairns employer: Gold Coast Football Club
The Gold Coast SUNS offer an exceptional opportunity for a Clinical Neuropsychologist to contribute to the AFL Brain Health Initiative, fostering a culture of inclusivity and support. With a commitment to meaningful work, employees benefit from a collaborative environment that prioritises player health and well-being, alongside professional growth through involvement in cutting-edge research and clinical practices. Located in the vibrant Gold Coast, this role not only allows for impactful contributions to athlete care but also offers a unique lifestyle in a thriving community.
