Assistant Coach, Cross Country (OPS)

JOB DESCRIPTION SUMMARY

The Assistant Cross Country Coach (OPS) is responsible for assisting the head coach with the leadership, direction, and strategic oversight of Florida Polytechnic University’s intercollegiate cross-country program. This position assists with ensuring the program’s alignment with the mission, values, and policies of Florida Polytechnic University, the Sun Conference, and the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). Primary responsibilities include assisting the head coach with talent identification, skills development, scheduling, travel coordination, equipment management, and game-day operations.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Responsibilities:

• Assist the head coach with recruiting, evaluating, and retaining qualified student-athletes who demonstrate strong academic potential, personal integrity, and competitive skill.
• Assist with developing and implementing practical training, practice, and conditioning programs to prepare student-athletes for high-level competition while prioritizing safety and sportsmanship.
• Oversee equipment procurement, maintenance, and inventory, ensuring all gear meets safety, performance, and branding standards.
• Assist with game-day operations, including team preparation, in-game decision-making, fan engagement initiatives, and coordination of concessions and support staff.
• Ensure compliance with NAIA, Sun Conference, and institutional rules, including eligibility, training, recruiting, and reporting requirements.
• Promote a positive team culture that supports academic achievement, leadership development, community engagement, and personal well-being.

Minimum Qualifications:

• 1-2 years of cross-country coaching or similar experience
• GED or High School Diploma

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities KSAs:

• Comprehensive understanding of cross-country techniques, strategies, regulations, and best practices at the collegiate level.
• Strong knowledge of NAIA and Sun Conference compliance requirements, eligibility rules, and reporting expectations.
• Understanding of student-athlete development, academic support practices, and safe training standards
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to instruct, motivate, and mentor student-athletes.
• Ability to recruit high-performing athletes through relationship-building, evaluation, and talent identification.
• Strong organizational, planning, and time-management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Sound judgment and decision-making under pressure, particularly during practice and competitive play.
• Ability to foster a culture of respect, accountability, teamwork, and academic success.