Head Coach – Men’s Basketball

SUMMARY

Spring Arbor University is a member of the Crossroads League and holds national membership with the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). All coaches within the SAU Athletics Department embody and promote the mission of the University as well as the mission statement of the athletic program: The Spring Arbor University Athletic Department seeks to use competitive sports to develop within our student-athletes depth of faith, strength of character, and skills of leadership essential for a lifetime of service to Jesus Christ.

The Head Coach for Men’s Basketball will lead Spring Arbor University’s established men’s basketball program, building on a long tradition of competitive excellence and Christ-centered formation. This position is responsible for guiding the program to compete at the highest levels of the Crossroads League and the NAIA, recruiting and developing student-athletes, and cultivating a Christ-centered team culture that disciples young men in faith, character, and leadership.

A key responsibility of all SAU staff is an enthusiastic commitment to, implementation of, and personal support for the SAU’s Statement of Faith, Community Covenant, and Concept, as well as our whole-person development model. Candidates should exhibit the fruits of a vibrant Christian faith and exemplary character and embrace and support our Christian mission within the Free Methodist tradition.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Program and Culture Development

• Lead the vision, culture, and competitive direction of the men’s basketball program, embodying the Christian mission of the University and infusing Christ-centered values and Christ-like behavior throughout every dimension of the program
• Develop and implement a comprehensive recruiting strategy to maintain a full, competitive roster of varsity and reserve student-athletes consistent with departmental targets and program needs
• Create and manage the program’s operational budget in collaboration with the Director of Intercollegiate Athletics
• Build and sustain relationships with prospective student-athletes, families, high school and club coaches, AAU programs, and basketball organizations to strengthen recruiting pipelines
• Lead and grow camps, clinics, and summer programming that serve as recruiting touchpoints, community engagement opportunities, and supplemental program revenue, in coordination with the Director of Intercollegiate Athletics

Coaching & Student-Athlete Development

• Serve as a spiritual mentor for growth in student-athletes’ relationship with Jesus Christ, intentionally integrating faith formation into team rhythms through team devotions, Chapel engagement, and one-on-one discipleship
• Plan, organize, and conduct team practices, training sessions, and competitions
• Provide individual instruction and skill development for all student-athletes
• Monitor and support the academic, social, and spiritual progress of all student-athletes within the program
• Foster a team culture that promotes sportsmanship, character development, and servant leadership

Administration and Department Support

• Develop and manage team schedules, including competitions, travel arrangements, and practice schedules in compliance with NAIA and Crossroads League requirements
• Ensure compliance with all University policies, NAIA and Crossroads League rules and certification requirements, and applicable state and federal laws
• Work collaboratively with the Athletic Director, Student Development and Success, the Chief of Staff, and Academic Affairs to participate in and promote holistic student care, accountability for team and University community standards, and retention efforts
• Maintain appropriate records related to recruiting, eligibility, equipment, and program operations
• Coordinate with University Advancement to develop fundraising opportunities and alumni engagement specific to the men’s basketball program, including cultivation of program alumni, donors, and community partners

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Demonstrated basketball coaching experience at the collegiate level (or equivalent)
• Thoroughly supportive of – and exhibiting a life and service that is in full accord with – the University’s mission and values as an evangelical Christian university affiliated with the Free Methodist Church, the SAU Concept, and the SAU Statement of Faith and Community Covenant
• Strong written and oral communication and interpersonal skills, demonstrating skill in caring for and supporting all colleagues and student-athletes
• Strong organizational, management, and leadership skills, including proficiency with standard productivity and recruitment management software (e.g., Microsoft Office, Salesforce or comparable CRM, and video analysis tools)
• Willingness to maintain a flexible working schedule that includes nights, weekends, and extended travel
• Note: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Preferred

• Master’s degree from an accredited institution
• Collegiate basketball playing and/or coaching experience
• Previous head coaching experience at the collegiate level
• Demonstrated understanding of and successful navigation through NAIA and conference policies and practices
• Previous recruiting experience with a proven ability to attract quality student-athletes
• Demonstrated success integrating Christian faith into a competitive collegiate athletic program