Position Summary

The men's and women's Head Cross Country Coach/Assistant Track and Field Coach is responsible for providing leadership and oversight of the men's and women's cross-country program including through the track and field seasons. This position manages all aspects of the program through the cross-country/track and field seasons, including coaching, recruiting, player development, staff supervision, competitive success, and compliance with university, conference, National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and SUNY Athletic Conference (SUNYAC) regulations. The Head Coach supports the academic success, personal development, and well-being of student athletes while upholding the mission, values, and standards of the institution.

Major Responsibilities

Coaching & Competitive Performance

• Develop, lead, and maintain a competitive men's and women's cross-country program at the conference level.
• Plan, organize, and conduct practices, skill training, and tactical preparation in support of competitive success.
• Develop and implement competitive strategies for meets.
• Evaluate team and individual performance using video analysis and statistical tools.
• Prepare student athletes for conference and postseason competition.
• Foster a culture of accountability, sportsmanship, and excellence.
• Instruct and mentor student-athletes in sport-specific skills, team dynamics, physical conditioning, and safety.

Recruiting & Roster Management

• Identify, evaluate, and recruit student-athletes who meet athletic, academic, and institutional standards, in full compliance with NCAA, conference, and College regulations.
• Manage official and unofficial visits in compliance with NCAA, SUNYAC, and conference regulations.
• Oversee roster management and retention of student athletes.

Student Athlete Development & Support

• Promote academic achievement, progress toward degree, and graduation success.
• Provide mentorship and support for leadership, character development, and life skills, fostering personal and professional growth.
• Maintain regular and effective communication with student athletes regarding expectations and performance.
• Assess academic performance of student athletes at least once each semester
• Collaborate with academic support services, athletic training, strength and conditioning, and mental health professionals to support student-athlete well-being.
• Support student-athlete retention by coordinating academic support and connecting students-athletes with academic coordinators and campus academic resources to promote retention outcomes comparable to the broader student populations.

Program Administration

• Supervise, mentor, and evaluate assistant coaches, graduate assistants, and volunteer staff.
• Develop and manage the program budget in coordination with the athletics department.
• Coordinate travel, scheduling, equipment, and facility usage.
• Participate in fundraising, alumni engagement, and community outreach efforts.
• Represent the cross country/track & field program positively.
• Oversee cross country/track & field facilities by ensuring they are well-maintained, operationally efficient, safe, and ready for practices and competitions.
• Demonstrate continuous development in cross country/track & field through education, professional organizations, and training.

Compliance, Risk Management & Professional Conduct

• Ensure compliance with NCAA, SUNYAC, conference, and institutional rules, policies, and regulations.
• Maintain accurate recruiting, eligibility, and compliance documentation.
• Uphold high standards of ethics, integrity, and professionalism.
• Foster a safe and inclusive environment that supports health, wellbeing, and success.