National Development Coach

Singapore Aquatics (SAQ), as a member of World Aquatics (AQUA), serves as the governing body for swimming, water polo, diving, and artistic swimming in Singapore. SAQ is charged with the development and education of aquatic athletes, officials, coaches and volunteers throughout Singapore, and with the conduct of competitions and programmes for all levels of participation.

Position : National Development Coach

A. PRIMARY JOB PURPOSE

Reporting to the Artistic Swimming Performance Director, the National Development Coach will assist in building Singapore's long-term artistic swimming pathway, identifying and preparing talented athletes for progression to the National Team and success at SEA Games 2029, Asian Games 2030, and Olympic qualification 2032. The role includes club engagement and supporting the coaching of high-potential athletes aged 10 & under, 12 & under, youth, and junior levels through pathway programmes and club engagement, ensuring strong foundations, pathway alignment, and the elevation of athlete standards to advance Singapore's artistic swimming performance over the long term.

B. JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Technical Responsibilities

• Ensure nationwide alignment of artistic swimming pathway with SAQ's high-performance objectives.
• Identify and track potential athletes/talented youth across Singapore through talent ID activities, assessments, and club engagement.
• Introduce high-performance concepts to clubs by providing age/stage-appropriate drills, technical skills, and training guidance.
• Deliver coaching and skill development programmes for athletes aged 10 & under, 12 & under, youth, and junior squads.
• Conduct regular monitoring of athlete performance plans to facilitate timely interventions and support.
• Prepare training camp schedules in consultation with the Performance Director.
• Prepare and distribute training materials to athletes and club coaches to enhance communication and consistency.
• Coach NextGen athletes in preparation for international competitions.
• Design training plans and choreographies for the NextGen squad and potential athletes.
• Support the National Head Coach in the delivery of training plans for the Senior National Team when required.
• Support with the implementation and delivery of the National Boys Programme.
• Assist in conducting coaching courses, workshops, and provide mentorship to participation, developmental and club coaches.
• Participate in and assist in the management of the Aspire programme, trials, and assessments.

Administrative Responsibilities

• Lead the implementation and regular review of Singapore's Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) Strategy for artistic swimming at the youth and development level.
• Assist in the coordination of sport science support services.
• Provide coach reports for overseas trips, training camps, and competitions.
• Provide regular monitoring and assessment updates on individual athlete performance.
• Prepare written individualised annual training and development plans.
• Coordinate with sport science teams for athlete monitoring and development.
• Support the Performance Director and National Head Coach with reports, administration, and other assigned tasks.
• Provide updates for the Aspire Awards as required

C. JOB HOLDER REQUIREMENTS

Experience

• Relevant artistic swimming coaching certifications (World Aquatics or equivalent).
• Minimum 5 years' coaching experience, including demonstrated success at youth and junior international level.
• Proven track record in athlete identification, development, and progression into senior high-performance squads.
• Experience in report preparation and documentation.
• Experience in club engagement, workshops, and programme delivery.

Personal Attributes

• Strong interpersonal and management skills to work closely with team and staff.
• Initiative-driven with the ability to prioritise, multi-task, and work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Meticulous with a keen eye for detail.
• Works effectively with others, demonstrating respect and sensitivity.
• Logical approach to decision-making.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to produce accurate reports.
• Ability to handle crisis situations effectively.
• Enthusiastic and committed to putting athlete performance before personal considerations.
• Available to attend pre-competition meetings, training camps, and events.
• Ability to work weekends and travel overseas as required.
• Fluent in written and spoken English.