Wallaroos Head Physiotherapist

Wallaroos Head Physiotherapist

Rugby Australia

With Australia hosting the 2029 Women’s World Cup, the women’s game is expanding rapidly, and Rugby Australia (Rugby AU) is seeking an experienced Head Physiotherapist to lead the Wallaroos for at least the next two years. The role is part time requiring 70 days in camp with the team for training and games and 3-4 hours a week for the remainder of the year.

The Wallaroos Head of Athletic Performance will be part of a team that will lead Women’s XVs rugby in Australia on the pathway to professionalism and will involve working closely with players and staff from both the National team and the Super W clubs. The Wallaroos is not a centralized program, and this role will require the ability to drive injury prevention and rehabilitation remotely, with some after-hours and weekend work required.

Key responsibilities for this role:

  • Work closely with Super W teams to ensure a full picture of a player’s physical status is available prior to, and during the program
  • Coordinate and manage the rehabilitation of all players and all matters relating to safety
  • Operate a medical clinic assessment and treatment program for players at the team assemblies with the Team Doctor. Clinics to be conducted in line with the training schedule and duties are to include a schedule/booking system for players
  • Work closely with the Strength and Conditioning Coach to ensure training load protocols are followed and communicated to the Head Coach
  • Provide player health status reports to the Team Doctor and Strength & Conditioning Coach at designated meetings and provide advice on design, implementation and monitoring of injury prevention and rehabilitation programs
  • Provide player health status reports to the Head Coach at designated meetings providing advice on player fitness to participate in training and playing
  • Arrange required medical expert consults and service provision for all players as required and perform full follow up
  • Perform musculoskeletal/functional screening as required to identify issues related to;
    • Muscle imbalance – length and control
    • At risk – Areas of concern’ groups based on pre-existing injury history
    • Musculoskeletal findings
  • Ensure all data is maintained in Smartabase as required by Rugby Australia.

To be successful, you will need:

  • Relevant tertiary qualifications
  • Expert and proven physiotherapy knowledge and experience
  • Excellent understanding of the components that contribute to a high performing rugby program including the incorporation of sport science and sport medicine
  • Excellent people and communication skills
  • Adaptability
  • Excellent time management skills
  • A strong work ethic

Ideally this role will be based in Brisbane or Sydney but not essential.

To apply please send your CV and cover letter supporting your application to Rachel.Buckling@rugby.com.au. Applications close Monday 23rd January 2023.