Head Coach Middle School Cross Country

Position Summary/Goal

The Head Coach will facilitate and enhance communication and collaboration between and among the Erie School District, parents, students, and community stakeholders. The Head Coach will promote a positive school culture, foster academic excellence, and exemplify good character for student-athletes. The Head Coach is expected to serve as a positive role model, mentor student-athletes, and embrace all concepts of good citizenship.

Term of Employment

12-month position

Schools/Location

• All 3 middle schools - one team

Reporting Relationships

• High School Varsity Cross Country Head Coach
• Building Principal
• Assistant Athletic Director

Qualifications

• Knowledge of cross country training principles, running mechanics, conditioning, and athlete development
• Demonstrated ability to teach, motivate, and mentor middle school student-athletes
• Understanding of age-appropriate training methods and injury prevention strategies
• Ability to develop and implement practice plans that promote skill development, fitness, teamwork, and sportsmanship
• Ability to support the transition of student-athletes into the Erie High School Cross Country program
• Must hold or obtain FBI, Criminal History, and Child Abuse Clearances
• Working knowledge of Erie School District policies, procedures, and organizational structure
• Must possess strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Must complete all Coaching Education requirements of the PIAA
• Possess a thorough understanding of all PIAA and NFHS rules appropriate to the sport
• Experience working with student-athletes in an urban educational environment preferred
• Urban student experience a plus

Special Requirements

• Work Environment: School and office with frequent travel between schools, parks, meet locations, and various locations within the Erie community
• Must complete all Coaching Education requirements of the PIAA and PDE

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Monitor grades and conduct of student-athletes
• Implement the program philosophy created by the Varsity Cross Country Coaches
• Attend all season practices, meets, and team functions
• Create weekly practice plans and forward to the High School Varsity Coach by Monday morning each week during the season
• Conduct practices a minimum of three days per week and emphasize skill development, conditioning, and sportsmanship
• Maintain and review transportation schedules for away meets, if applicable
• Instruct athletes in the rules, regulations, equipment, and techniques of cross country
• Assess skills and development of athletes and keep the Head Varsity Coach informed of athlete progress
• Participate in parent nights, banquets, awards programs, and other team activities
• Host a parent meeting before the first competition
• Maintain positive communication with athletes, families, community members, and district administration
• Collect and inventory uniforms and equipment

Professionalism

• Possess the ability to be a team player
• Be cooperative, service-oriented, and promote these characteristics with the team
• Represent Erie's Public Schools with the high level of ethical behavior and professional standards

Evaluation

• High School Varsity Head Coach, Building Administrator, Athletic Director, and/or Assistant Athletic Director