Oxford Harlequins RFC is a proud, ambitious amateur club in the heart of Oxfordshire, with thriving women’s and men’s sections, a strong minis and juniors pathway, and a genuine community feel. We are committed to developing players at every stage of the game and creating an environment where people can succeed both on and off the pitch.
Our Women’s 1st XV was established five years ago and, in that time, has progressed to compete at Championship level. As we enter the next phase of our journey, we are building with clear intent and our sights firmly set on returning to and sustaining rugby at that level. We are now looking to appoint a DOR / Head Coach who can drive the programme forward and help us take that next step.
*The Opportunity *
As the DOR / Head Coach of the Senior Women’s section, you will inherit a committed, passionate squad and a club exec that is fully invested in women’s rugby.
You will work with a dedicated Senior Player Group and report directly to the Executive Committee.
*The Role *
* Design and deliver structured weekly training
* Implement and develop set pieces and structural phase play (scrums, lineouts, attack/defensive structure)
* Lead matchday preparation and on-field coaching
* Produce and implement individual player development and unit plans
* Deliver consistent player feedback loops: post-training, post-match reviews, development check-ins
* Work with the Senior Leadership Group on recruitment, retention and squad planning
* Be part of longer term strategic planning involving both the Women’s and Girl’s sections
* Work with Exec team on broader club activities
*What We’re Looking For *
Must have (essential)
* A genuine passion and commitment to coaching women’s rugby and track record of squad development
* Proven experience coaching senior women’s rugby OR equivalent relevant experience coaching adult teams at a competitive level
* Full commitment to Tuesday evenings, Thursday evenings and Sundays across the whole season
* Technical understanding in the forwards and set piece
* RFU Level 2 minimum
* Strong communicator, able to set boundaries and manage player challenge professionally
Highly desirable
* RFU Level 3 (or working towards)
* Experience coaching in Championship
* Proven ability to improve physical conditioning and structure across a squad
What You’ll Get
This is a paid role.
* Remuneration aligned with experience: details available on application
* A committed squad that wants to be coached and drive high performance
* Executive Committee support and genuine investment in the women’s programme
* One of Oxfordshire’s best rugby facilities at Horspath Sports Ground with an RFU365 Artificial Grass Pitch
*How to Apply *
Interviews will take place during March / April 2026.
You will meet current womens coaching team and the exec team during the interview process. All applicants will be required to do an on pitch trial session as part of the process.
We aim to appoint by no later than 1 June 2026, with pre-season beginning Tuesday 7 July 2026.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: From £300.00 per month
Expected hours: 10 per week
Work Location: In person