ABOUT THE COMPANY
The Philadelphia Union operates and competes in Major League Soccer, the top professional league in the United States. Youth development is the core of our mission and the heart of our passion. The Philadelphia Union Academy program is free of charge, so Philadelphia’s future players promise have an opportunity to pursue their passions without the burden of paying to play. Selection into the program is a true accomplishment and the major step in a player’s path to Subaru Park.

The innovative Philadelphia Union Academy program is deeply based in sport science and performance and follows best practices in coaching education. It includes three developmental phases: Junior Academy (U9 - U12), Mid Academy (U13 - U15), Professional Development Phase (U16 - U18 – Union III) and targeted scouting as needed as it relates to Philadelphia Union II (NCAA, MLS Next Pro, USL). At all ages, our players are asked to lead by example and embrace the ethos and culture of Philadelphia Union.

The Philadelphia Union Academy was established after studying the models of the most innovative and successful soccer clubs worldwide, Philadelphia Union set about implementing a holistic developmental platform integrating world-class player training and sport science for the youth soccer players of the Greater Philadelphia region.

The Philadelphia Union Academy is the renowned soccer platform providing an opportunity for the youngest players to develop a passion for the game, or for an elite academy player on the cusp of professional stardom to pursue excellence, all in the same enriching and nurturing environment. Philadelphia Union Academy has one of the most qualified and skilled staff in North America, featuring sport science and athletic development training as important resources. The program is overseen by Academy Director Jon Scheer. The Philadelphia Union Academy is based out of Subaru Park in Chester, PA, and features an innovative, first-of-its-kind soccer specific independent school partner, YSC Academy.

ABOUT THIS ROLE
The Head of Athletic Training & Professional Development assists and takes an active leadership role in managing the day-to-day sports medicine operations for the Philadelphia Union Academy as well as Union II. This position provides injury prevention strategies, evaluation, treatment and rehabilitation for all athletes’ medical problems. The Athletic Trainer shares responsibility for the prevention, evaluation, management and rehabilitation of injuries.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Performs as Certified Athletic Trainer in managing the health care of Philadelphia Union Academy athletes:
Health care includes but is not limited to: first aid / emergency care, on-site injury evaluation, application of appropriate modalities, developing rehabilitation and prevention programs, as well as conducting rehabilitation and making medical referrals.
Works under the guidance, supervision and support of the Head of Health.
Works primarily with our MLS NEXT Pro team but oversees the academy athletic trainers in their day-to-day operations to ensure the player pathway medical department is working in a unified manner.
Works alongside Performance staff members, nutritionist, etc to provide an exceptional standard of care for Academy athletes.
Shares Athletic Development Responsibilities with Performance Department Staff.
Works alongside Academy team physicians to facilitate injury protocols and procedures following injury.
Order, maintain and inventory supplies and clinical equipment.
Maintain athletic training room standards and function.
Comply with all Academy medical policies and protocols. Assist with updating and facilitating protocols and procedures.
Comply with OSHA Standards with regards to blood borne pathogens.
Perform other duties as assigned or required.

QUALIFICATIONS

Certifications: CSCS, XPS, or PES, recommended.
Previous experience in MLS, MLS Next Pro, or MLS Next, recommended.

This position requires valid criminal background clearances in the state of PA:

PA Child Abuse History Clearance

PA State Police Criminal Record Check

FBI Criminal Background Check (via fingerprinting)

Annual Safe Sport Certification

OUR PERKS

Comprehensive benefits package including three medical options, vision and dental coverage, including flexible spending & health savings accounts.
Pre-tax and Roth 401k (up to 4% is matched, after 90 days of service).
Company-paid life insurance and disability.
Wellness reimbursements including Headspace meditation app.
50% merchandise discount.
Other league and partner discounts.
Complimentary or discounted tickets.
24/7 state-of-the-art Fitness Center, locker rooms, and Sportsplex (coming soon!)
On-site Café with grab-and-go options, salad bar, and grill!

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.

Head of Academy Athletic Training and Professional Development