As an expression of our Jesuit, Catholic mission and identity, Fairfield embraces a liberal humanistic approach to education, encouraging critical thinking, cultivating free and open inquiry, and fostering ethical and religious values.
Job Description:
Position: Backs Coach, Men’s Rugby
Reports to: Austin Ryan, Director of Rugby/Head Coach, Men’s Rugby
General position summary: Serve as a key member of the Men’s Rugby coaching staff, responsible for the tactical, technical, and decision-making skills of our team’s backline players. This is a part-time position and is renewable on a per semester basis.
Essential Duties:
Note: The intent of this list of duties is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities of this job. The incumbent may perform other related duties as assigned. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary based on team needs.
Basic Responsibilities
- Plan and conduct effective practice sessions focused on skill development, strategy, and teamwork
- Provide constructive feedback and technical instruction to enhance player performance
- Support a balance between competitive success and educational value
- Encourage a positive and inclusive environment that aligns with university values
- Attend and supervise games and practices, including evenings and weekends
- If unable to attend a scheduled practice, game, or event, promptly notify the Director of Rugby to ensure appropriate coverage and communication.
- Weekly meetings and strategy sessions with the Director of Rugby
Risk Management Responsibilities
- Always prioritize participant safety, enforcing proper use of equipment, adherence to safety protocols, and monitor environmental (field/court/playing surfaces) conditions
- Report all injuries, incidents, and concerns to the Director of Rugby promptly
- Ensure proper warm-up/stretching for student-athletes prior to practice or competition
Administration & Communication
- Communicate regularly with the Director of Rugby on topics including, but are not limited to:
- Skill development, tactical planning, positional coaching, match analysis, practice planning, and player experience/feedback.
- Always represent the team and university with professionalism and integrity
Management
- Collaborate with coaches and team leaders to establish goals, organize practices, games, and travel
- Assist with game preparation, competition strategy, and post-game evaluations
- Ensure proper supervision and conduct of team members during all club-related activities
- Uphold and enforce all university, club sport, league, and governing body rules and policies
Other Duties
Other duties and responsibilities may be assigned to meet the goals and mission requirements of the University, Recreation, and the Club Sport Program. Cooperation of all personnel is expected to carry out the mission.
Qualifications
- Previous coaching and/or playing experience.
- Knowledge of sport-specific strategies, techniques, and safety standards.
- Strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with students, staff, and external organizations.
- (Preferred) CPR/First Aid certification.
Time Commitment
- Varies by semester; includes practices, competitions, travel, and administrative meetings as required.
- Nights and weekends required
Category: Student Life - Admin
Performs such other duties, responsibilities, and activities as required by supervisor and as departmental/University needs indicate.
