Assistant Coach, Competitive Cheer

Position Summary

The Assistant Competitive Cheer Coach position is a part-time, 10-month position responsible for assisting the Head Coach in all aspects of the Gannon University Competitive Cheer & Dance program. The program competes at the intercollegiate II level and attends the NCA & NDA Collegiate National Championship annually. Must be able to support and promote the University’s Mission.

Essential Functions

• Recruits quality academic students who are also competitive student-athletes.
• Trains, strengthens, and develops all cheer and/or dance student-athletes, under the direction of the Head Coach.
• Learns, understands, and complies with all USA Cheer rules (cheer), NDA safety rules (dance) and Gannon University regulations.
• Promotes and represents the University whenever possible.
• Affords assistance in the development and implementation of a year-round strength and conditioning program for the team.
• Affords assistance in the development and implementation of camps and clinics.
• Teaches advanced level stunting, baskets, and pyramids safely and with proper technique.
• Teaches and spots beginner to elite tumbling skills safely and with proper technique.
• Performs other duties as assigned within the scope and responsibility and requirements of the job.

Required Qualifications

• Education: A bachelor’s degree; working knowledge of USA Cheer and/or NDA safety rules and an understanding of the philosophy behind them.
• Licensure: A valid driver’s license with a good driving history is required.
• Skills: Must have excellent communication skills and technical knowledge of the sport-specific skills identified above for cheer or dance, combined with the ability to effectively teach and coach them.
• University Mission: Must be able to support and promote the University’s Mission.

Preferred Qualifications

• Cheer or dance experience at the collegiate level; preferably with competitive experience at NCA & NDA Nationals.
• Team coaching experience at the high school level or higher.
• Experience participating on or coaching programs that have a collaborative approach to their cheer and dance programs.

Physical Demands

Must be able to meet the physical demands associated with a busy athletic team schedule. Work is performed indoors and outdoors in a busy University setting. The work schedule will vary.