Head Men's and Women's Cross Country Coach

Job Description

Basic Function and Responsibility: Under general supervision, provide direction for the Men's and Women's Cross Country program through meet and practice coaching, player and team skill development and recruitment and retention of academically and athletically prepared students. Support activities of the cross-country program within the rules and guidelines of the NJCAA, the Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference and the college. Demonstrate a sound and committed educational philosophy for holistic student development including academic, athletic and personal. Support the mission and philosophy of the college.

Characteristic Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Plan and conduct in-season and off-season team practice and conditioning programs.
2. Assist individual active players in cross-country skill development through skills training and strength and conditioning training.
3. Direct the identification and recruitment of runners to the program. This may include traveling to regional high school and club cross-country events and cross-country showcases.
4. Schedule and plan cross country practices and meets, including transportation, driving a team vehicle, securing funds for travel, making travel arrangements, etc.
5. Secure and monitor all practice/competition facilities and equipment and report any/all problems to the Athletic Office.
6. Report in-season game/match results and statistics to both internal and external media sources and recommend news stories and features to support the program.
7. Report end of season scores and team and individual statistics to appropriate groups. Recommend and advocate for student honors within conference, region, and other athletic governing bodies.
8. Represent the Athletic Department and the Men's and Women's program at Skyway Conference and NJCAA Region IV meetings, on college committees or task forces and at college events and/or other public meetings.
9. Communicate as necessary with the other Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference and NJCAA Region IV Cross Country Coaches.
10. Participate in corresponding professional development including annual training in NJCAA Regulations, CPR, AED usage, Blood Born Pathogen, Exercise Induced Asthma and use of an Epi-Pen.
11. Assist the Athletic Department in the academic support of student athletes as well as the facilitation of academic support activities including the collection of academic progress reports.
12. Secure and maintain certification in First Aid and CPR/AED required.
13. Plan and coordinate fund raising activities to support programs activities and events as necessary.
14. Plan and coordinate sport camps and workshops for the district community including camps for children.
15. Assist the Athletic Department with the development and implementation of annual department budget through researching and recommending equipment and supply purchases.
16. Perform other job related duties as assigned.

Requirements: An associate degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience from which comparable skills and abilities can be obtained is required. A bachelor's degree is preferred. Two years of cross-country coaching experience as a head or assistant coach at the college, high school, club, travel, or AAU level required. Collegiate experience is preferred. Collegiate level running experience preferred. Knowledge of NJCAA/NCAA/NAIA rules and regulations preferred. Excellent interpersonal, organizational, planning and leadership skills and a positive role model for young adults is expected. Valid Class "D" driver's license required.