Cross Country Head Coach

Primary Responsibilities

• Build and sustain a highly competitive and respected cross-country program.
• Establish a clear vision, culture, and standards for the program.
• Develop long-term plans for program growth from middle school through varsity levels.
• Promote accountability, discipline, teamwork, and character development.
• Foster positive relationships with athletes, parents, faculty, and administration.
• Plan and implement effective daily practices and pre/post season training programs.
• Teach proper running mechanics, conditioning, race strategy, nutrition, recovery, and injury prevention.
• Develop individualized training plans when appropriate.
• Prepare athletes physically and mentally for competition.
• Maintain compliance with all conference, state association, and school policies.
• Coordinate meet schedules, travel logistics, and race preparation.
• Ensure athletes are prepared and organized for all competitions.
• Demonstrate professionalism and sportsmanship during events.
• Encourage academic success and personal responsibility.
• Serve as a positive role model and mentor for student-athletes.
• Promote leadership development and team unity.
• Maintain open and professional communication with families and school staff.
• Recruit, supervise, and mentor assistant coaches as needed.
• Maintain equipment inventory and assist with budget oversight.
• Organize team meetings, camps, summer workouts, and offseason development opportunities.
• Assist with fundraising and community engagement initiatives.
• Ensure proper supervision and safety of athletes at all times.

Qualifications

• Must have a clear testimony of personal faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and a lifestyle of biblical integrity.
• Previous successful coaching experience in cross country and/or track & field preferred.
• Experience building or leading a successful athletic program is strongly preferred.
• Strong knowledge of endurance training principles and athlete development.
• Excellent leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
• Commitment to professionalism, integrity, and sportsmanship.
• CPR/First Aid certification preferred or willingness to obtain.

Preferred Characteristics

• High-energy and relational leader.
• High-level running experience preferred.
• Strong motivator and culture builder.
• Passionate about mentoring young people.
• Growth-minded with a commitment to continuous improvement.
• Ability to create excitement and visibility for the cross-country program within the school community.