What are the responsibilities and job description for the Germantown Academy Aquatic Club Head Age Group Coach – 14 and Under position at Germantown Academy?
Germantown Academy
We inspire students to be: Independent in Thought
Germantown Academy is committed to the work of equity and inclusion and believes that equal opportunity in all aspects of employment supports the mission of the school and the successful attainment of our strategic objectives. Candidates must exhibit an appreciation of, a sensitivity to, and a respect for a diverse academic environment, inclusive of students, faculty, and staff of varying socioeconomic, cultural, ideological and ethnic backgrounds.
Position Summary: The Germantown Academy Aquatic Club (GAAC) is seeking a dynamic and experienced Head Age Group Coach for our 14 and under swimmers beginning April 2025. The successful candidate will be responsible for coaching athletes in the 14 and under age group, developing their skills, fostering a positive team culture, and supporting the overall growth of the GAAC program. This role includes coaching, team administration, staff leadership, communication with athletes and families, and contributing to program development and success.
This is a 12-month position which offers an excellent array of benefits, a competitive salary commensurate with experience, and a rewarding opportunity to work with a dedicated team of athletes. Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter detailing their coaching experience and philosophy. Please include references from previous coaching positions and any relevant certifications. We look forward to finding a passionate, knowledgeable coach who can help lead GAAC’s young swimmers to success!
Key Responsibilities
Coaching & Team Responsibilities:
We inspire students to be: Independent in Thought
- Confident in Expression
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- Collaborative in Action
- Honorable in Deed
Germantown Academy is committed to the work of equity and inclusion and believes that equal opportunity in all aspects of employment supports the mission of the school and the successful attainment of our strategic objectives. Candidates must exhibit an appreciation of, a sensitivity to, and a respect for a diverse academic environment, inclusive of students, faculty, and staff of varying socioeconomic, cultural, ideological and ethnic backgrounds.
Position Summary: The Germantown Academy Aquatic Club (GAAC) is seeking a dynamic and experienced Head Age Group Coach for our 14 and under swimmers beginning April 2025. The successful candidate will be responsible for coaching athletes in the 14 and under age group, developing their skills, fostering a positive team culture, and supporting the overall growth of the GAAC program. This role includes coaching, team administration, staff leadership, communication with athletes and families, and contributing to program development and success.
This is a 12-month position which offers an excellent array of benefits, a competitive salary commensurate with experience, and a rewarding opportunity to work with a dedicated team of athletes. Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter detailing their coaching experience and philosophy. Please include references from previous coaching positions and any relevant certifications. We look forward to finding a passionate, knowledgeable coach who can help lead GAAC’s young swimmers to success!
Key Responsibilities
Coaching & Team Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement age-appropriate training programs for swimmers in the 14 and under age group, focusing on skill development, technique, and performance improvement.
- Lead daily practices, providing constructive feedback and fostering a supportive, motivating environment that encourages personal growth, team unity, and athletic excellence.
- Prepare swimmers for local, regional, and national meets with appropriate training schedules and meet strategies.
- Ensure proper stroke technique, training intensity, and physical conditioning for swimmers to reach their full potential.
- Develop individual performance plans for swimmers, tracking progress and adjusting goals as needed.
- Provide one-on-one coaching to athletes who require additional attention or are targeting specific goals.
- Collaborate with other coaching staff to ensure the alignment of the training philosophy and consistency across all training groups.
- Supervise assistant coaches and provide guidance, mentoring, and professional development opportunities for the age group coaching staff.
- Foster a positive team culture that emphasizes grit, resilience, and reliability, and ownership, both in the pool and outside of it.
- Communication with Membership:
- Serve as the primary point of contact for parents of 14 and under swimmers, providing regular updates on swimmer progress, upcoming events, and team goals.
- Maintain effective communication with families regarding practice schedules, meet schedules, and other team activities.
- Respond to emails, phone calls, and inquiries from parents in a timely and professional manner.
- Conduct regular parent meetings to review team goals, performance, and expectations.
- Assist in the recruitment and retention of swimmers, ensuring an inclusive and welcoming environment for swimmers of all backgrounds and skill levels.
- Work with the head coach and team administration to develop and implement strategies to grow the team and engage the broader community.
- Foster positive relationships with swimmers and families to encourage long-term participation in the program.
- Assist with the planning and execution of team travel arrangements, including meet sign-ups, lodging, and logistics.
- Help manage the team’s competition calendar, ensuring that swimmers are entered into appropriate meets and events.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date swimmer records, including attendance, performance, and progress.
- Collaborate with team leadership to manage day-to-day operations and administrative duties related to the program.
- Lead and coordinate travel for 14 and under swimmers attending swim meets, including team itineraries and transportation and lodging (when appropriate).
- Attend swim meets as the lead coach, managing the team’s warm-ups, event entries, and ensuring swimmers are prepared and focused.
- Ensure that team goals, performance standards, and team values are represented at competitions.
- Supervise and support swimmers at meets, ensuring that they are well-prepared and have a positive experience.
- Monitor and assess swimmer performance at meets and throughout the season, adjusting training plans as needed.
- Provide constructive feedback to athletes on both strengths and areas for improvement, helping them develop their skills.
- Ensure swimmers maintain a positive attitude and always demonstrate good sportsmanship.
- Work with the Head Coach to identify and prepare athletes for competitive opportunities, including championships and qualification meets.
- Stay up to date with the latest coaching techniques, swim trends, and USA Swimming guidelines through workshops, clinics, and continuing education.
- Attend USA Swimming events, conferences, and coach development opportunities to enhance personal and professional growth.
- Demonstrate a commitment to personal growth as a coach and contribute to the overall development of the GAAC coaching staff.
- Proven track record of developing young athletes, with at least 3-5 years of coaching experience, preferably in a USA Swimming environment.
- USA Swimming Registered Coach with current certifications (including background check, safety training, and CPR/First Aid).
- Strong leadership skills and the ability to motivate and engage athletes.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to effectively interact with swimmers, parents, and fellow coaches.
- Ability to work collaboratively with other coaches, parents, and team leadership to achieve the overall goals of the program.
- Experience with swim team administration, including meet entries, team travel, and schedule coordination.
- Proficient with Hy-Tek Meet and Team Manager software and with Team Unify.
- Passion for coaching and a deep understanding of the developmental needs of 14 and under swimmers.