The successful candidate will coordinate and deliver a range of sports development and participation initiatives aligned with the cornerstones of the Sport NI ‘Power of Sport’ Plan, aimed at putting in place the structures and programmes required to increase squash participation in a sustainable manner.
The Club & Community Development Officer will report to the Squash Ireland CEO and work closely with the Strategic Development Officer for Northern Ireland to develop and action a work plan. It will be essential for the successful candidate to develop positive working relationships with the Ulster Squash Provincial Committee, local clubs, coaches, volunteers, and partners such as Sport Northern Ireland, local councils, and university sports development teams to promote inclusive and welcoming squash programmes and initiatives.
The position is initially offered on a fixed-term contract to 31 March 2025, with the possibility of an extension subject to successful delivery of the funded programme and continued receipt of Sport NI funding.
Key Responsibilities
- Providing support to existing clubs to grow in an inclusive and sustainable manner
- Initiating the establishment of new clubs
- Assisting clubs in establishing and expanding junior sections and programmes
- Developing new squash programmes aimed at encouraging underrepresented groups, regardless of their backgrounds and abilities, to play squash. This includes more programmes for women and girls, supporting the growth of LGBTQ+ initiatives, and developing disability squash sessions. Supporting clubs in implementing these programs.
- Development of structured school programmes to encourage more young people to play squash
- Working with local council and university sports development teams to support local clubs in accessing local council grants, sports forums, and other resources
- Working with local councils to develop and run holiday mixed racquet camps for young people, building on successful models run with Ulster Badminton and Ulster Table Tennis in Coleraine (Causeway, Coast, and Glens Council) and Lagan Valley Leisure Plex (Lisburn and Castlereagh Council)
- Working with local councils and other leisure providers (e.g., David Lloyd) to embed squash coaching within their sports activities classes offered to members
- Supporting clubs in forming local partnerships with other youth organisations to increase junior participation, e.g., delivering squash to local Scouts, Beavers, and Cubs groups in partnership with 3rd Ballymena Scouts
- Assisting with the introduction of innovative new national programmes, including HIIT Squash, One Wall Squash, and Squash 57, and supporting clubs in implementing these programmes to increase the number of people engaged in participation programmes
- Supporting the delivery of an Intervarsity Championship at Queen’s University in 2025
- Increasing participation in local and provincial leagues within Northern Ireland, including the new Northwest League commencing in October 2024
- Increasing our reach beyond traditional strongholds and into more rural areas
- Assisting in the delivery of the Coach Education Programme within Northern Ireland with the aim of increasing the number of active coaches
- Identifying facilities in need of development and refurbishment and supporting the local community in reestablishing a vibrant squash scene
- Supporting clubs in ensuring compliance with policies and procedures such as club and membership affiliation, safeguarding, and Diversity & Inclusion in Sport to ensure they become a welcoming environment for people of all backgrounds
Experience & Competencies
- Proven ability to develop and deliver sports programs, events, and initiatives.
- Experience and/or relevant sports development qualifications.
- Squash coaching qualification or equivalent experience.
- Highly motivated with the ability to work as part of a team or independently.
- Excellent communication skills. An understanding of social media channels is desirable.
- A full driving license.
Further Information
- Fixed-Term Contract to 31 March 2025 (with an extension subject to continued receipt of Sport NI funding)
- Part-time, up to 3 days per week, and flexible based on the candidate
- Flexible and remote working is available reflecting the Northern Ireland-based nature of the role. Occasional travel to the Squash Ireland Office located on the Sport Ireland Campus, Dublin 15, may be required.
- Salary is dependent on experience
The appointment will be made subject to satisfactory:
- Access NI Checks
- Reference Checking Procedures
How to Apply?
Applications must be sent by email with the subject line: [ATTN: Club & Community Development Officer Northern Ireland]. When applying by email, please include a letter of introduction detailing your skills and experience relevant to the role and your Curriculum Vitae outlining your skills and work experience. Please send these materials no later than the 18th of October 2024, to Squash Ireland CEO Scott Graham at ceo@irishsquash.com. Interviews to take place on 21/22 October.
Squash Ireland is an equal opportunity employer, celebrating diversity and championing inclusivity. If you require any reasonable accommodations to assist you in participating in the employee selection process, please simply let us know.
