Head Cheer Coach

Position Description Summary/Purpose

The University of Bridgeport is seeking a dynamic and entrepreneurial leader to serve as Head Cheer & Spirit Coach / Director of Cheer Program. This is a unique opportunity to build a collegiate cheer program from the ground up, with a focus on recruiting, student engagement, and future competitive success.

The successful candidate will be responsible for launching a sideline cheer team with the long-term goal of developing a competitive cheer program capable of participating in regional and national competitions.

Essential Job Functions/Primary Responsibilities

• Represent the University of Bridgeport and the Athletic Department in a positive manner with a high degree of integrity and quality.
• Establish, grow and retain members for the cheer and spirit program
• Build relationships with high school programs, all-star gyms, and coaches
• Organize and lead tryouts, clinics, and recruiting events
• Coordinate choreography (internally or with external choreographers)
• Promote cheerleading at the University of Bridgeport and have the squad attend various sporting events as well as University events.
• Provide leadership in the planning and operation of the program.
• Administer cheer policies as set forth by the governing body standards and the key to UB
• Organize and facilitate all practice sessions, contest preparation, and competition
• Build toward participation in competitions such as those hosted by Universal Cheerleaders Association and National Cheerleaders Association
• Prepare routines, manage travel, and oversee competition logistics
• Adhere to budgets as established by the Athletic Department.
• Assist in promotion and public relations activities for the University
• Create a high level of visibility on campus and in the community
• Conducts all work in a safe manner and all work safety practices are followed.

Other Functions

• Collaborate with Athletics, Admissions, and Student Affairs
• Performs similar or related work as required, directed or as situation dictates.
• Continues professional development and training; keeps current with trends.
• Assists other department staff as needed to promote a team effort.

Knowledge, Ability and Skill

• Manage roster, eligibility, and compliance requirements
• Teach fundamental and advanced cheer techniques, including stunting, tumbling, and performance
• Ensure athlete safety and proper progression of skills
• Demonstrated commitment to developing and fostering best practices and policies to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and build an environment in which all members of the University community are treated with respect and dignity.

Qualifications

Minimum Required Qualifications

Education, Training and Experience:

Required:

• Bachelor’s Degree required
• Prior cheerleading experience (collegiate, all-star, or equivalent)
• Demonstrated ability to teach fundamental cheer skills
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Willingness to work evenings and weekends

Preferred:

• Previous coaching or recruiting experience
• Established recruiting network in high school or all-star cheer
• Experience with competitive cheer programs
• CPR/AED and safety certifications (or willingness to obtain)