National Head Coach – Sabre

About Fencing Singapore and the Role:

Fencing Singapore (FS), in collaboration with the High Performance Sport Institute (HPSI), seeks a highly motivated and experienced National Fencing Head Coach for the Sabre discipline, with a proven track record of success at the international and elite levels. This is a pivotal role in shaping the future of Singaporean Sabre fencing, with a primary objective of qualifying athletes for the 2032 Olympic Games. The successful candidate will lead the development of national team members, and work collaboratively with junior and club coaches to create a unified, high-performance development pathway.

Job Description:

The National Head Coach – Sabre will be responsible for the strategic and practical development of the Sabre discipline within Singapore. This includes:

• High-Performance Coaching: Leading and developing national team members, to achieve international success.
• Program Development: Designing and implementing a comprehensive training program that aligns with the long-term goals of Fencing Singapore and the HPSI.
• Collaboration: Work closely with the High Performance Team and Sports Scientists to ensure holistic development of national team members to maximise potential. Work with high performance coaches in Singapore to ensure a consistent and integrated development pathway.
• Athlete Management: Providing individualised coaching and support to athletes, including technical, tactical, psychological preparation and promoting overall wellbeing to ensure sustained high performance and personal development.
• Performance Analysis: Utilising data and performance analysis to optimise training and competition strategies.
• Strategic Planning: Contributing to the strategic planning and development of the Sabre discipline, including talent identification and recruitment.
• Pathway Development: Supporting the development and implementation of a structured coaching pathway to uplift fencing coaching standards in Singapore through collaboration and alignment with national development initiatives.
• Reporting: Providing regular reports on athlete progress, programme development, and performance outcomes to Fencing Singapore and the HPSI.

Terms of Reference (TOR):

1. Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive national training program and competition plan for Sabre fencers, with a strategic focus on achieving success in major international competitions, culminating in qualification for the 2032 Olympic Games. Progress towards this goal will be measured through performance milestones at key competitions and championships in the lead-up to 2032, allowing for continuous evaluation and adjustment of the program.
• Provide expert coaching and mentorship to national team members, including those within the Spex Programme and the Senior Team.
• Collaborate closely with the National Junior Coach and Sports School Fencing Academy coaches to ensure a unified coaching philosophy and seamless athlete transition.
• Guide and collaborate with club coaches in the development of cadet fencers, fostering a strong talent pipeline.
• Manage athlete performance data and utilize it to inform training and competition strategies.
• Contribute to the strategic planning and development of the Sabre discipline, including talent identification and recruitment and Pathways development.
• Provide regular reports to Fencing Singapore and the HPSI on athlete progress, program development, and performance outcomes.
• Integrating the coaching philosophy and pedagogy of the weapon across all levels.

2. Key Deliverables:

• Development and implementation of a long-term athlete development plan for Sabre.
• Measurable improvement in the performance of national team members at international competitions.
• Podium success for Sabre fencers for major international events, leading to qualification at the 2032 Olympic Games.
• Establishment of a strong and sustainable talent pipeline for Sabre.
• Effective collaboration and communication with all stakeholders, including coaches, athletes, and administrators.

3. Required Qualifications and Experience:

• Extensive experience coaching Sabre at the national or international level.
• Proven track record of developing high-performance athletes.
• Strong understanding of modern fencing techniques, tactics, and training methodologies.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with coaches, athletes, and administrators from diverse backgrounds.
• Relevant coaching certifications.
• Experience and knowledge in leveraging sports science and technology to enhance athlete performance, working collaboratively with specialists to support evidence-based training and recovery strategies.
• Experience working within a government-funded sports system is an advantage.
• A Bachelor’s degree in Sports, Coaching, Physical Education, Sports Management, or a related field is preferred but not mandatory.

4. Reporting Structure:

• The National Head Coach – Sabre will report to the Programme Director under the National Fencing Programme.

5. Additional Information:

• The coach must be willing to work flexible hours and travel internationally.
• The coach must be able to work within the structure of the Singaporean Sports system.
• Regional experience, while not mandatory, is beneficial.
• This position is contracted with a 4-year contract, with the option for extension for another 3 years, until the conclusion of the 2032 Summer Olympic Games
• The coach is required to provide at least two professional references to support the application.

Interested applicants may email their resumes and any supporting documents to andy@fencingsingapore.org.sg.