Showdown Coach

Help develop players in one of the UK’s fastest-growing inclusive sports.

Sussex Spitfires Showdown Club, run by Sight Support Worthing (SSW), is seeking a Volunteer Coach to support the continued development of our players. Showdown is a fast-paced, table-top sport designed for visually impaired players and playable by all, combining elements of table tennis and air hockey.

Formed in 2024, the Spitfires already include national and international-level players. As the sport grows rapidly across the UK, we are keen to further strengthen our competitive presence and we welcome coaches at different stages of their coaching journey.

Role: Showdown Coach

Reporting to: Volunteer Coordinator

Location: Sight Support Worthing, Rowlands Road

Hours/days: At least one 2 hour session per week (preferably Monday evenings)

Role Description

The Volunteer Showdown Coach will support players with varying levels of vision and experience. This role suits someone with a background in sport or sports psychology who is enthusiastic about inclusive coaching and open to learning a new sport.

Volunteers who are newer to coaching or Showdown will be supported by club leads to develop training plans, exercises, and session structures.

What You Will Be Doing

  • Attend at least one weekly training session (additional sessions optional)
  • Plan and deliver training sessions, with support and guidance where needed
  • Develop engaging exercises to build technical, physical, and mental skills
  • Offer advice on additional training that players can undertake independently
  • Provide clear, personalised instruction suited to individual players
  • Learn about and stay up to date with national and international Showdown developments

Skills & Experience

Essential:

  • Background in sport, coaching, teaching, or sports psychology (study or experience)
  • Willingness to learn and engage with a developing sport
  • Ability to give objective feedback while remaining mindful of players’ emotional wellbeing
  • Commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment

Desirable (but not essential):

  • Coaching experience in competitive sport
  • Experience working with visually impaired people

Support & Development

  • Guidance and mentoring from club leads on session planning and delivery
  • Support in adapting exercises for players with different levels of vision
  • Training from SSW on visual impairment and inclusive practice

What You’ll Gain

  • A key role in developing one of the UK’s leading Showdown teams
  • Experience coaching in a diverse and inclusive sporting environment
  • Opportunities to attend national and international competitions in a coaching capacity
  • Increased understanding of visual impairment through SSW training
  • The option to compete in Showdown at national level, if desired

Think this could be the role for you? Join our friendly team of volunteers and help make a difference for people affected by sight loss in our community. Get in touch to find out more: email info@sswcharity.org.uk or call 01903 235782. We look forward to hearing from you!