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