Scottish Development Programme (SDP) – Expressions of Interest

Help Shape Scotland’s Future

Scottish Hockey is inviting expressions of interest from passionate, committed and experienced individuals who would like to contribute to the continued development and success of the Scottish Development Programme (SDP).

The SDP is a key stage within Scotland’s national player pathway, bridging the transition between the National Aspiring and Senior programmes. It identifies and develops the next generation of international players, providing athletes under 23 with high-quality training, competitive opportunities and a clear pathway towards senior international hockey.

Following a highly successful summer for both the Men’s and Women’s programmes, we are now building towards the next major milestone: the FIH Junior World Cup 2027.

The Women’s programme retained its place in the EuroHockey Championship and secured qualification for a second consecutive Junior World Cup, continuing the momentum generated through their participation in Chile in 2025.

The Men’s programme achieved promotion to the EuroHockey Championship and secured qualification for the FIH Junior World Cup for the first time in over two decades.

As we begin preparations for the next Junior World Cup cycle, Scottish Hockey is seeking expressions of interest from individuals who can help create a world-class development environment and support our athletes in achieving their potential on the international stage.

Opportunities Available

Expressions of interest are invited for roles across both the Men’s and Women’s SDP programmes, including:

  • Coaches (including GK)
  • Team Managers
  • Video Analysts
  • Physiotherapists
  • Other specialist support roles

Appointments may support training camps, domestic activity, international preparation events and competition programmes throughout the upcoming cycle.

Who Are We Looking For?

We are looking for individuals who:

  • Are passionate about athlete development and performance sport.
  • Can contribute positively to a high-performance hockey environment.
  • Demonstrate strong communication and collaboration skills.
  • Are committed to supporting athletes on their journey towards Junior World Cup and Senior international hockey.
  • Bring relevant experience, qualifications and expertise within their area of practice.
  • Share Scottish Hockey’s commitment to creating positive, challenging and athlete-centred environments.

Whether you have previous international experience or are looking to take the next step within the performance pathway, we would welcome an expression of interest from you.

Expression of Interest

To register your interest, please provide:

  • The role(s) you are interested in.
  • A brief summary of your relevant experience and qualifications.
  • Why you would like to be involved in the Scottish Development Programme.

To [email protected]

The closing date for expressions of interest is 12:00pm on Friday 2nd October 2026.

Following receipt of expressions of interest, Scottish Hockey will review submissions and may contact suitable individuals to discuss potential opportunities and next steps.

Appointments may be made throughout the cycle as programme requirements evolve.

Join the Journey

This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in developing Scotland’s future international players and to contribute to programmes with genuine ambition on the world stage.

By joining the SDP, you will have the opportunity to help shape the next generation of Scottish international players and support their journey towards future Junior World Cups and Senior international hockey.

Together, we can build on recent success and continue to create an environment in which Scotland’s athletes can develop, compete and succeed on the international stage.

About the Programme

The Scottish Development Programme provides a critical transition point within the national player pathway, supporting athletes as they progress from the National Aspiring Programme towards Senior international hockey.

The programme is designed to provide enhanced training, competition and support opportunities, helping athletes prepare for the demands of international performance environments and future senior team selection.

As part of the programme model, athletes make a financial contribution towards their involvement. This enables Scottish Hockey to provide additional development, training and competitive opportunities. Scottish Hockey continues to invest wherever possible to strengthen the SDP experience and expand the support available to both athletes and staff.

Support and Remuneration

The SDP is a development-focused programme operating within a limited budget. While roles are not salaried positions, Scottish Hockey recognises the significant contribution made by staff and is committed to providing financial support where possible.

Depending on the role and activity, successful applicants may receive:

  • A contribution towards programme involvement.

  • Travel expenses in line with programme requirements.

  • Reimbursement of agreed travel costs, up to a maximum contribution of £500 per person per season.

  • Opportunities for professional development and experience within a national performance pathway.

Financial arrangements will vary according to role, level of responsibility, experience and programme activity and will be discussed as part of the appointment process.

Why Get Involved?

By joining the SDP, you will:

  • Play a key role in developing Scotland’s future international players.

  • Contribute to programmes targeting future FIH Junior World Cup success.

  • Gain valuable experience within a national performance environment.

  • Work alongside athletes and staff progressing towards Senior international hockey.

  • Help shape and develop an expanding programme at an exciting stage in its evolution.

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