We are seeking an experienced Head Rugby Coach to lead the sporting development of a competitive senior rugby programme in Dubai.
Rugby 15s will be the primary competitive programme , with the objective of building a senior squad capable of competing successfully in UAE Rugby Division 2 . Rugby 7s will serve as an additional platform for competition, player development, recruitment, and club exposure through selected domestic and international tournaments.
The Head Coach will play a central role in squad building, player recruitment, training, match preparation, selection, coaching structure, and long-term sporting development .
This is a hands-on leadership position with significant influence over the club's playing philosophy, coaching standards, performance environment, and squad composition.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the senior Rugby 15s programme and take overall responsibility for team performance.
- Oversee the development and preparation of the Rugby 7s programme.
- Plan, structure, and deliver senior-team training sessions.
- Prepare and manage the Rugby 15s team for league fixtures and competitions.
- Prepare and manage Rugby 7s squads for selected tournaments.
- Establish a clear playing philosophy, tactical structure, and performance standards across both formats.
- Adapt technical and tactical preparation to the specific requirements of Rugby 15s and Rugby 7s.
- Assess existing and prospective players and identify recruitment priorities by position and role.
- Lead player recruitment, scouting, trials, assessment, and squad selection.
- Build a competitive Rugby 15s squad capable of competing successfully in UAE Rugby Division 2.
- Identify and develop players suitable for the club's Rugby 7s squads.
- Develop individual and team development plans.
- Work closely with club management on squad composition, recruitment strategy, and season planning.
- Assist with the recruitment and management of assistant coaches, specialist coaches, and performance staff.
- Establish professional standards for training attendance, preparation, fitness, discipline, and matchday performance.
- Contribute to the long-term sporting strategy and development of the club.
- Significant experience coaching senior/adult Rugby 15s .
- World Rugby Level 2 coaching qualification, or a recognised equivalent, is mandatory.
- Strong technical and tactical understanding of Rugby 15s.
- Strong understanding of Rugby 7s and the ability to prepare players and squads for the format.
- Proven experience in player assessment, squad selection, and player development.
- Experience in player recruitment, scouting, and/or trials.
- Ability to build and manage squads comprising players from different rugby backgrounds and competitive levels.
- Strong leadership, communication, organisational, and player-management skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with club management on sporting and recruitment decisions.
- Professional approach to training planning, performance analysis, and team preparation.
- Previous experience as a Head Coach or Senior Assistant Coach is highly desirable.
- Previous Rugby 7s coaching experience is highly desirable.
- Previous UAE or Gulf rugby experience is advantageous but not essential.
Coaching Qualification
World Rugby Level 2, or a recognised equivalent qualification, is a mandatory requirement.
A World Rugby Level 3 qualification or recognised equivalent will be considered a significant advantage.
Candidates will be required to provide details of their current coaching qualifications during the application process.
- Full-time position based in Dubai, UAE.
- Competitive compensation based on experience and qualifications.
- UAE employment visa.
- Medical insurance.
- Opportunity to play a key role in building a competitive rugby programme from an early stage.
- Significant involvement in squad building, player recruitment, and sporting strategy.
- Opportunity to develop both Rugby 15s and Rugby 7s programmes.
- Relocation support, where applicable, to be discussed individually with shortlisted candidates.
Please note: All coaching, training, match day, and team activities will be based in Dubai.
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