Swim Team Coach

About the Role

The Swim Team Coach is responsible for implementing the Competitive and/or Recreational swim teams at the Santa Monica Family YMCA under the guidance of the Aquatic Director. This role involves organizing, supervising, and executing the year-round Swim Crew and/or Swim Team season and clinics, following YMCA Philosophy, Swim Team Guidelines, and Competitive Sports Guidelines.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement age-appropriate swim training plans that support skill progression and stroke development.
• Teach and demonstrate proper swim techniques, adapting coaching methods to meet the developmental needs of swimmers.
• Create a safe, positive, and engaging learning environment that promotes confidence and skill.
• Maintain active supervision of all swimmers during practices and activities.
• Assist with promotion and marketing of the program through flyers, social media, website, and word of mouth.
• Manage all age groups by developing coordinated training and practice plans (land and water exercises).
• Set and evaluate individual goals for swim team members; provide feedback for improvement and recognition.
• Serve as the primary contact for Swim Crew/Swim Team participants and families, communicating program expectations, schedules, goals, swimmer progress, and cancellations.
• Address participant/parent questions, concerns, and feedback professionally and promptly.
• Maintain and prepare equipment, ensuring proper storage and reporting repairs as needed.
• Keep records of attendance, skill development, and progression.
• Represent the YMCA at meets, community events, and meetings.
• Maintain current knowledge of emergency procedures and report incidents and accidents in a complete and timely manner.
• Promote the team philosophy and foster a positive, friendly practice environment aligned with the YMCA Mission.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Qualifications

• Minimum 18 years of age.
• Current YMCA Swim Lesson (YSL) Certification or American Red Cross WSI Certification (must obtain YSL within 6 months).
• A minimum of two (2) years of competitive swimming experience.
• A minimum of one (1) year of coaching or instructing experience in an aquatic environment.
• Must pass a practical skills exam prior to duty.
• Must obtain YMCA Swim Lessons V6 - Advanced Swimming Techniques and Advanced Teaching Techniques within 60 days of hire.
• Current CPR PRO/AED certification from one of the following organizations:
  • American Red Cross
  • American Heart Association
  • American Safety & Health Institute