MLS NEXT Academy Performance Intern - DC United
Position Overview: DC United is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented intern to join our MLS NEXT Academy Performance team for the upcoming fall season. This internship offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in sports performance within a professional soccer club setting. The ideal candidate should be passionate about sports science, athlete development, and performance analysis. ACADEMIC ONLY. INTERN MUST RECEIVE ACADEMIC CREDIT.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assist with Training Sessions: Support the MLS NEXT Academy Performance staff during training sessions by setting up equipment, monitoring athletes, and ensuring sessions run smoothly.
- Data Collection and Analysis: Assist in the collection and analysis of training and match data using performance monitoring technology (e.g., GPS, heart rate monitors). Compile and organize data for coaches and performance staff.
- Player Wellness Monitoring: Assist in monitoring player wellness and readiness through daily monitoring tools and subjective athlete feedback. Help track training loads and assist in preparing reports for coaching and performance staff.
- Sports Science Research: Support ongoing research projects related to sports science and performance optimization. Assist in literature reviews, data collection, and analysis under the guidance of senior performance staff.
- Video Analysis: Aid in video analysis tasks related to player performance and match analysis. Use video editing software to clip and analyze key moments from training sessions and matches.
- Assist with Performance Testing: Help administer and conduct performance tests such as speed, agility, and strength assessments. Assist in data recording and analysis.
- Equipment Maintenance: Assist in maintaining and organizing performance equipment and supplies. Ensure equipment is clean, operational, and readily available for use.
- Other Duties as Assigned: Support the MLS NEXT Academy Performance staff with additional tasks and projects as needed.
Qualifications:
- Current enrollment in or recent graduate of a degree program in exercise science, sports science, kinesiology, or related field.
- Basic understanding of sports performance principles, including strength and conditioning, sports nutrition, and athlete monitoring.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
- Experience with performance monitoring technology and video analysis software is a plus.
- Passion for soccer and a desire to pursue a career in sports performance or sports science.
Details:
- Location: Segra Field, Leesburg, VA (Home venue of DC United's MLS NEXT Academy). Interns may also work at the Inova Performance Complex.
- Duration: August 12th (8/12) to December 13th (12/13), fall semester (start and end dates flexible).
- Hours: Part-time, approximately 15-20 hours per week (including evenings and weekends as needed).
- Compensation: ACADEMIC ONLY. Must receive academic credit for internship.
- Supervisor: This position will report to the current Performance Coach.
This internship with DC United provides a valuable opportunity to gain practical experience in sports performance within a professional soccer academy setting. The intern will work closely with experienced performance staff to support the development and optimization of youth athletes in the MLS NEXT Academy program.
All candidates must complete a successful ground check.
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