What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assistant Athletic Director position at Aquinas College?
The Assistant Athletic Director for Sport Performance at Aquinas College is responsible for the
leadership, management, and administration of athletic training, strength and conditioning, and
overall student-athlete performance programs. This position ensures the health, safety, and peak
performance of student-athletes through comprehensive programming and oversight of the
athletic training staff. The Assistant Athletic Director for Sport Performance reports directly to
the Director of Athletics and works collaboratively with coaches, faculty, and administration to
support the overall mission and vision of Aquinas College Athletics.
Responsibilities/Duties/Tasks/Essential Functions
Administrative Tasks:
● Oversee the daily operations of the athletic training and sport performance programs,
ensuring efficiency and compliance with all institutional, conference, and NAIA policies.
● Manage budgets for sport performance and athletic training operations, ensuring
responsible fiscal management and resource allocation.
● Supervise and evaluate athletic training personnel, strength and conditioning coaches, and
student workers to maintain high-quality support for student-athletes.
● Maintain accurate medical records, injury reports, and rehabilitation documentation in
compliance with NAIA and institutional standards.
● Coordinate medical care with team physicians and other healthcare professionals,
ensuring efficient and effective treatment plans for injured student-athletes.
● Oversee the purchasing, maintenance, and inventory of all athletic training and sport
performance equipment and supplies.
Sport Performance:
● Develop and implement comprehensive sport performance programs, including strength
and conditioning, nutrition, and recovery protocols tailored to individual and team needs.
● Collaborate with coaching staff to integrate performance programs that enhance athletic
development and reduce the risk of injury.
● Monitor and assess student-athletes' physical progress, adjusting training regimens as
necessary to optimize performance.
● Provide leadership and education on best practices in sport performance, recovery, and
injury prevention.
Injury Prevention, Evaluation, and Treatment:
● Design and implement injury prevention programs, including warm-up routines, mobility
exercises, and workload management strategies.
● Conduct on-field and clinical evaluations of athletic injuries, determining the appropriate
course of action for treatment and care.
● Implement emergency action plans and provide immediate first aid and acute care for
injured student-athletes during practices and competitions.
● Educate student-athletes and coaching staff on injury risks, proper techniques, and
preventive measures.
Rehabilitation:
● Develop and oversee individualized rehabilitation programs to ensure safe and effective
recovery for injured student-athletes.
● Work collaboratively with physicians, physical therapists, and other medical
professionals to execute rehabilitation protocols.
● Monitor progress and adjust rehabilitation plans as needed, facilitating a smooth return to
play for student-athletes.
● Utilize evidence-based methods and modalities to promote healing and functional
recovery.
Other Responsibilities:
● Support recruitment and retention efforts by fostering a high-performance culture that
prioritizes health, safety, and peak conditioning.
● Represent the athletic department at conferences, meetings, and professional
development opportunities related to sport performance and athletic training.
● Develop and implement educational initiatives focused on athlete wellness, including
mental health, nutrition, and recovery strategies.
● Support fundraising efforts and community engagement initiatives that enhance the sport
performance program.
Knowledge, Skills, and Education Requirements
● Bachelor's Degree in Athletic Training, Exercise Science, Kinesiology, or a related field
(Master’s Degree preferred).
● Certification through the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA), NSCA
Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), or other relevant governing body
required. Must be licensed in Michigan.
● Minimum of five years of experience in athletic training, sport performance, or a related
area within collegiate athletics.
● Demonstrated leadership and management experience, including staff supervision and
program development.
● Strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively collaborate with coaches,
student-athletes, medical professionals, and college administrators.
● Understanding of injury prevention techniques, rehabilitation protocols, and sports
performance methodologies.
● Experience managing budgets and allocating resources efficiently within an athletic
department.
● Knowledge of NAIA regulations and commitment to compliance with athletic policies
and procedures.
● Commitment to fostering an environment that prioritizes student-athlete health, safety,
and overall well-being.
Work Environment & Physical Demands
● Work is performed in a variety of settings, including athletic training facilities, weight
rooms, and competition venues.
● Requires the ability to lift and move equipment up to 50 pounds.
● Must be available to work evenings, weekends, and travel with teams as necessary.
● Exposure to various weather conditions for outdoor training and competition settings.
Mission, Vision, and Values
Aquinas College, an inclusive educational community rooted in the Catholic and Dominican
traditions, provides a liberal arts education with a global perspective, emphasizes career
preparation focused on leadership and service to others, and fosters a commitment to lifelong
learning dedicated to the pursuit of truth and the common good.
Aquinas College is recognized as the exceptional Catholic liberal arts college that prepares
individuals for careers of leadership and service in developing a sustainable and just global
community. Aquinas College is recognized by its values: Faith, Service, Learning and
Community.
Aquinas College prides itself as a leader in sustainability, and this requires the participation of
every member of the college community. In this regard, employees and their supervisors are
expected to engage in the process of “appreciative inquiry” to identify ways that each position
can advance sustainability in the employment experience