Youth Coach/Trainer (Rockaway YMCA)

The YMCA of Greater New York empowers youth, improves health, and strengthens community across 24 branches. The Rockaway YMCA is seeking a Youth Coach/Trainer to lead children and teens in a designated sport, fostering enjoyment, physical competence, confidence, healthy competition, and skill development.

Responsibilities

• Provide a fun, safe, and positive experience for all participants.
• Demonstrate strong service and hospitality with participants and parents/guardians.
• Create an all‑inclusive and supportive learning environment.
• Teach progressive lessons and provide opportunities to demonstrate learned skills.
• Encourage a lifetime of participation in sports and physical activity.
• Coach games that allow for equal playing time.
• Be responsible for the team’s equipment.
• Work to establish and improve group unity and spirit.
• Be available on Saturday evenings for the program.
• Embody the YMCA Core Values.
• Work with the Supervisor to develop program objectives, goals, and logistics.
• Schedule team practices and games during Saturday Night Lights (SNL) Teen Center hours in collaboration with Teen Advisors.
• Create written, age‑appropriate, progressive practice plans as needed.
• Supervise players to ensure safety and engagement.
• Modify and adapt coaching styles to meet participants’ needs.
• Emphasize teamwork and sportsmanship over winning.
• Teach rules, fundamentals, and enhance basic skills.
• Communicate with parents/guardians regarding schedules, additional YMCA opportunities, and progress/registration.
• Ensure all equipment is age‑appropriate, safe, and in proper working condition, including scheduled safety checks.
• Develop and lead program promotion and recruitment efforts with the Supervisor.
• Provide direction to volunteers or Teen Advisors supporting the program when applicable.
• Inform the Manager on Duty of any incident reports.
• Actively participate in designated meetings, training sessions, and special events.
• Adhere to all Saturday Night Lights funding expectations and requirements.
• Keep a safe and clean activity space.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent (required).
• Minimum two (2) years experience coaching children/teens sports in a structured setting.
• Experience working with teens in a group setting.
• Coaching license in the respective sport (preferred).
• Content expert in designated sport(s) with in‑depth knowledge of sporting strategies.
• Current First Aid or CPR certifications.
• Must attend YMCA Coaching 101 Training within 90 days of hire.
• Must receive CDC HEADS UP Concussion in Youth Sports Certificate within 30 days of hire.
• Must receive OCFS Mandated Reporter Online and Child Abuse Prevention Certificates within 30 days of hire.
• Must complete YMCA Preventing Sexual Harassment, Discrimination, and Retaliation, Cybersecurity Awareness, and Active Assailant online training courses within 30 days of hire.
• Must complete YMCA Risk Management and Ethics & Boundaries training courses within 60 days of hire.
• Passion for youth development and knowledge of youth development stages.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with members of all ages.
• Must be available to work Saturday evenings.

Benefits

• Retirement benefits
• Medical coverage
• Paid time off
• Free YMCA membership
• Additional benefits based on employment status, tenure, and scheduled hours

Pay

$18.00 – $25.00 hourly (Part‑Time / Regular)

Schedule

Part‑time regular position; required availability on Saturday evenings during Saturday Night Lights Teen Center hours.