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The NextPro Fitness Coach will play a central role in designing, delivering, and monitoring the physical preparation of Atlanta United 2 players throughout the MLS Next Pro season. This individual will work closely with the High Performance Director, Director of Methodology, NextPro Head Coach, and the Head of Sports Science & Performance Analytics to ensure full alignment in physical periodization, load management, and player development across the club’s integrated performance model.
The role requires a dynamic practitioner who can merge strength and conditioning principles with soccer-specific methodologies, support individualized player development plans, and contribute to the continued evolution of Atlanta United’s high-performance environment.
Key Responsibilities
Training Design & Delivery
- Plan and lead all strength, power, and conditioning sessions for the NextPro squad in coordination with the NextPro Head Coach, High Performance Director, and Director of Methodology.
- Collaborate with the Head of Sports Science & Performance Analytics to integrate GPS, heart-rate, and readiness data into daily and weekly training periodization.
- Ensure all sessions are consistent with the first team’s tactical and physical development framework.
- Deliver individualized gym and on-field programs for players returning from injury or requiring targeted development.
Monitoring & Reporting
- Manage daily monitoring processes (wellness, RPE, GPS, heart rate) in collaboration with the Head of Sports Science & Performance Analytics.
- Track player workloads, recovery, and adaptation to optimize readiness and reduce injury risk.
- Provide weekly performance and monitoring summaries to the High Performance Director, Director of Methodology, and NextPro Head Coach.
Collaboration & Integration
- Work collaboratively with the nutrition, strength & conditioning, sports medicine, and performance analytics teams to deliver an interdisciplinary player support model.
- Coordinate closely with the Director of Methodology to ensure that physical preparation complements the club’s tactical periodization and game model.
- Support the transition of academy players into the NextPro environment through structured physical development and adaptation programs.
- Contribute to player education initiatives around recovery, nutrition, and performance habits.
Professional Standards
- Uphold Atlanta United’s high-performance culture and professional standards in all aspects of work.
- Foster strong relationships with players, coaches, and support staff built on communication, trust, and accountability.
- Remain current with best practices and emerging trends in soccer-specific performance and strength & conditioning.
Qualifications
Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, or related field.
- Minimum 3 years of experience in elite soccer or a comparable professional sport environment.
- NSCA CSCS or UKSCA certification (or equivalent).
- Demonstrated experience implementing GPS, HR, and RPE-based monitoring systems.
- Proven ability to design and deliver soccer-specific strength and conditioning programs.
Preferred:
- Master’s degree in Exercise Physiology, Strength & Conditioning, or related field.
- Experience within MLS, MLS Next Pro, or USL environment.
- Familiarity with Tactical Periodization and integrated game model frameworks.
- Working knowledge of Catapult, STATSports, or comparable athlete monitoring technologies.
- CPR/AED and First Aid certification.
Personal Attributes
- High emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills.
- Strong communication and presentation abilities.
- Passion for developing young professionals and supporting player transitions across performance levels.
- Adaptability and resilience in a dynamic, high-performance team environment.
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.
