Graduate Assistant - Women's Softball

Location: Rockford, Illinois | Type: Part-time

About the Role

Rockford University is seeking a motivated and enthusiastic Graduate Assistant for Women's Softball. This is an excellent opportunity for an aspiring coach to gain hands-on collegiate coaching experience while pursuing a graduate degree. The Graduate Assistant will assist in all aspects of the Women's Softball program, including recruiting, player development, practice planning, game preparation, and academic support. The successful candidate will help foster an environment that promotes student-athlete success both academically and athletically while contributing to the continued growth of a competitive NCAA Division III program.

Responsibilities

• Assist with all phases of recruiting, including phone outreach, off-campus recruiting, and coordinating campus visits.
• Visit high schools and recruit prospective student-athletes both in and out of state.
• Assist in planning, organizing, and conducting practices.
• Provide coaching during practices and competitions.
• Conduct individual meetings with student-athletes to support athletic and personal development.
• Monitor student-athlete academic progress through study tables, class attendance, and grade checks.
• Coordinate tutoring and academic support services utilizing Rockford University resources.
• Supervise strength and conditioning activities.
• Analyze practice and game film to assist with player development and game preparation.
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of the Women's Volleyball program.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree required.
• Acceptance into a Rockford University graduate program.
• Collegiate playing experience preferred.
• Strong knowledge of volleyball fundamentals and position-specific skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Self-motivated with a strong work ethic and willingness to take initiative.
• Working knowledge of strength and conditioning principles.
• Valid driver's license, personal automobile insurance, and the ability to meet Rockford University's driver eligibility requirements.

Physical Requirements

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and reaching.
• Ability to coach practices and competitions.
• Occasionally lift and/or move up to 45 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities include close vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment

Work is performed in athletic facilities, offices, and competition venues. Evening, weekend, and travel commitments are required to support practices, competitions, recruiting, and other program activities.

Benefits

• Monthly stipend
• Room and board
• Up to 21 credit hours of graduate tuition remission per academic year
• Valuable collegiate coaching and leadership experience

Schedule

Graduate Assistants typically work an average of 30–40 hours per week over a 12-month appointment.