“The average mean salary of strength and conditioning coaches and sports scientists working in English academy football is £28,900.”

This instalment examines English football academy staff and offers a comprehensive look into the working conditions and salaries of strength and conditioning coaches and sports scientists. There has been a growing concern about coach health, leading to the inclusion of self-reported weekly working hours in this report. Disturbingly, some professionals in top-tier academies are working over 70 hours a week. This intense workload raises questions about its potential role in the increasing number of young coaches departing the industry.

Another significant point of contention highlighted in the report is the lack of professional accreditations among practitioners. Despite the expectations set by the EPPP, a staggering 49% of respondents are not accredited with any awarding body. This raises questions about the standards and qualifications of those working in English football academies.

The insights are drawn from 138 full-time strength and conditioning coaches and sports scientists and provide a revealing snapshot of our industry. While it showcases the dedication and commitment of these professionals, evident from the long working hours, it also highlights areas of concern, particularly around diversity, professional accreditation, and remuneration. As the industry continues to evolve, it’s imperative for stakeholders to address these challenges, ensuring a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable environment for all professionals in the field.

Research carried out by Sportsmith - https://www.sportsmith.co/reports/english-academy-football-performance-staff-survey-premium/