Angers, France – The Ducs d’Angers, a professional ice hockey team competing in France’s Ligue Magnus, are seeking a qualified and experienced physical preparation coach to join their staff. The position, a fixed-term contract (CDD) beginning in mid-May 2026, will focus on optimizing the physical performance of both the professional team and the Espoirs U20 squad. This search underscores the club’s commitment to a holistic approach to athlete development and competitive success.
The role is central to the Ducs d’Angers’ performance strategy, requiring a deep understanding of sports physiology, biomechanics, and training methodologies. The successful candidate will work directly under the head coach, designing and implementing individualized training programs tailored to the specific needs of each player. The position offers a salary of €30,650 per year, equivalent to approximately €2,000 net per month before taxes, for a 35-hour work week. The team is actively recruiting, with applications being accepted via email until further notice.
The Ducs d’Angers, based in the city of Angers in western France, have a long history in French ice hockey. The club plays its home games at the IceParc Angers, a modern facility that hosts both professional and youth hockey events. The team’s commitment to developing young talent is reflected in the inclusion of the Espoirs U20 team within the scope of this physical preparation role. Understanding the demands of both professional and developmental hockey will be crucial for the ideal candidate.
Responsibilities and Core Duties
The physical preparation coach will be responsible for the full cycle of athletic conditioning, from pre-season preparation to in-season maintenance and post-season recovery. Key responsibilities include designing and implementing annual training programs, taking into account the unique demands of the hockey season – including periods of intense competition and travel. Individualization of programs is a priority, recognizing that each player has different strengths, weaknesses, and injury histories.
Beyond program design, the role involves direct coaching during off-ice training sessions, focusing on strength and conditioning, cardiovascular fitness, mobility, and explosive power. Collaboration with the technical staff is essential, with the coach expected to participate in on-ice sessions to integrate physical preparation with hockey-specific skills training. A significant component of the role is injury prevention, working closely with the team’s medical staff to identify and address potential risk factors, and to manage the rehabilitation process for injured players. Detailed monitoring of training load and performance analysis will be used to refine programs and optimize athlete conditioning.
Qualifications and Desired Attributes
Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in STAPS (Études Universitaires de Sciences et Techniques des Activités Physiques et Sportives) with a specialization in training or physical preparation, or an equivalent qualification. A minimum of three to five years of experience working in high-performance sport is required, with experience in team sports – and ideally, ice hockey – being highly valued.
The Ducs d’Angers are seeking a candidate with a strong theoretical foundation in physiology and biomechanics, coupled with practical experience in applying these principles to athletic training. Proficiency in using performance tracking and monitoring tools is essential, as is a solid understanding of injury rehabilitation and prevention strategies. While not mandatory, fluency in English is considered a significant asset, given the potential for interaction with international players and coaches.
Beyond technical skills, the club emphasizes the importance of personal qualities such as rigor, organization, and autonomy. The ideal candidate will be a team player with excellent communication skills, demonstrating both pedagogical ability and adaptability. Professionalism and a commitment to serving as a positive role model for the players are also highly valued.
Logistical Details and Application Process
The position is offered as a fixed-term contract (CDD d’usage, referencing the French collective bargaining agreement for professional sports coaches – CCNS). The start date is scheduled for mid-May 2026, with a working schedule of 35 hours per week, annualized. The position is based at the IceParc Angers, but will require occasional travel to other ice rinks for training and competitions. A valid driver’s license (Permis B) is a requirement due to the travel component of the role.
Candidates should be prepared for a demanding schedule that may include evening, weekend, and holiday work. The Ducs d’Angers emphasize the importance of commitment and flexibility. To apply, interested individuals should submit their curriculum vitae (CV) and a cover letter via email to [email protected], clearly indicating “prépa phys” in the subject line. A detailed job description, including specific responsibilities and qualifications, is available for download as a PDF from Hockey France’s website.
The Ducs d’Angers’ search for a physical preparation coach reflects the growing emphasis on sports science and athlete optimization within French ice hockey. The club’s investment in this role signals a commitment to providing its players with the resources they need to compete at the highest level. The team will continue to provide updates on the recruitment process as it progresses, with a final decision expected in the coming weeks.
If you are a qualified physical preparation coach with a passion for ice hockey, this position with the Ducs d’Angers offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the success of a dynamic and ambitious team. We encourage interested candidates to apply and join our dedicated staff. Share this article with your network and let’s find the right fit for the Ducs!
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