Head Varsity Cross Country Coach/Program Director
Head Varsity Cross Country Coach/Program Director
Location: Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School in Lower Gwynedd, PA
Reports to: Director of Athletics
Job Overview: Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School is seeking a dedicated and experienced coach to lead our cross-country program. The ideal candidate will be responsible for coaching student-athletes, fostering a positive and competitive team environment, and promoting the values and mission of our school. The coach will play a crucial role in developing runners' skills, sportsmanship, and teamwork while upholding the school's standards of excellence.
Key Responsibilities Include (but are not limited to):
1. Coaching and Training
- Develop and implement practice plans that focus on fundamental cross-country skills, strategies, and physical conditioning.
- Provide individualized coaching to enhance runner development.
- Organize and lead team practices, ensuring a safe and productive environment.
- Analyze race footage to identify areas of improvement.
- Monitor runner progress and provide feedback before, during, and/or after practices and races.
- Manage and coach the team during meets and other competitions.
2. Team Management:
- Foster a positive team culture that emphasizes respect, discipline, and sportsmanship.
- Build and maintain effective communication with runners, parents, and school staff.
3. Program Development:
- Collaborate with the Director of Athletics to schedule meets, practices, and other events.
- Assist in the recruitment, within the parameters set forth by the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA), and retention of student-athletes.
- Plan and oversee out-of-season training, competition, and clinics/camps.
- Assist athletes in their aspirations of competing at the collegiate level.
4. Administrative Duties:
- Maintain accurate records of runner statistics.
- Ensure all equipment and facilities are properly maintained and utilized.
- Adhere to school policies, league rules, and guidelines set forth by PIAA.
5. Catholic School Mission Integration:
- A commitment to model and promote the Gwynedd Mercy Academy Mission.
- Encourage and support student-athletes in their spiritual growth through participation in athletics.
Qualifications
- Experience: At least three years of competitive cross country coaching experience; prefer high school, collegiate, and/or club levels.
- Skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strong leadership and organizational proficiencies.
- Ability to motivate and inspire student-athletes.
- Knowledge of current cross-country techniques, strategies, and conditioning methods.
- Other Requirements
- Ability to pass a background check and adhere to the school's code of conduct.
- PATCH
- Child Abuse
- FBI
- Prior to athlete interaction: NFHS Education—Concussion Wise, Heat Wise, CardiacWise
- Within 90 days of hiring:
- Act 126 Training
- Safe Environment Training
Compensation: Salary is competitive and will be based on credentials
Application Process: Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three professional references to careers@gmahs.org.
Application Deadline: July 26, 2024