Hockey Director

Job Title: Hockey Director Organization: Shakopee Youth Hockey Association (SYHA)

Location: Shakopee, Minnesota Employment

Type: Full-Time Reports To: Shakopee Hockey Association Board of Directors

Position Overview: The Hockey Director of the Shakopee Youth Hockey Association (SYHA) is responsible for leading and managing the organization’s hockey programs. This role main focuses will be on player development, coach training, team organization, with some scheduling, and overall hockey operations in cooperation with the hockey development committee. The Hockey Director will be a visible leader within SYHA, fostering a culture of excellence, sportsmanship, and inclusivity while promoting a positive and hockey experience for players, coaches, and families.

Key Responsibilities:

Program Development & Operations:

• Design and implement comprehensive player development programs tailored to different skill levels, from beginners to advanced athletes.
• Establish and uphold a cohesive development philosophy aligned with SYHA’s mission and USA Hockey guidelines.
• Oversee player evaluations, team placement, and tryouts to ensure a fair, transparent, and effective process.
• Identify opportunities to enhance programming, including skills clinics, off-ice training, and mentorship initiatives.

Coaching Leadership:

• Recruit, mentor, and oversee coaches to enhance their skills and ensure alignment with the association’s development goals.
• Organize and lead coaching clinics, workshops, and ongoing training sessions to improve coaching effectiveness and team performance.
• Serve as a key resource for coaches, providing guidance on practice planning, game strategies, and player development.
• Promote a culture of learning, collaboration, and continuous improvement among coaching staff.

Player & Parent Engagement:

• Act as a primary point of contact for players, parents, and coaches, fostering open and constructive communication.
• Promote an environment that emphasizes player development, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
• Address concerns, feedback, and inquiries from parents in a professional and transparent manner.

Operational Management:

• Collaborate with the Board of Directors to establish annual goals, budgets, and strategic priorities for SYHA’s hockey programs.
• Maintain accurate records, reports, and evaluations to track progress and inform program improvements.
• Ensure adherence to SYHA policies, league regulations, and USA Hockey standards.

Community Outreach & Growth:

• Represent SYHA in the local community, actively building relationships with schools, businesses, sponsors, and media.
• Plan and execute initiatives to grow hockey participation in Shakopee and surrounding areas, including introductory programs and recruitment efforts.

Qualifications:

Education & Experience:

• Strong background in hockey, with experience as a coach, player, or administrator.
• Knowledge of USA Hockey guidelines, development models, and best practices.
• Previous leadership experience in a sports or youth organization is preferred.
• Experience managing teams, programs, or large-scale hockey operations is an asset.

Skills & Attributes:

• Exceptional organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to effectively manage multiple tasks and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong leadership, mentorship, and team-building capabilities.
• Passion for youth sports, player development, and fostering a positive hockey culture.
• Commitment to professionalism, integrity, and upholding SYHA’s values.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• Flexible working hours, including evenings and weekends during the hockey season.
• Potential for performance-based incentives.

Application Process: Interested candidates should submit the following:

• A cover letter detailing relevant experience, coaching philosophy, and vision for the role.
• A current resume.
• References from previous hockey-related roles (if applicable).

Submit applications to board@shakopeehockey.com by 4/1/25.

About Shakopee Youth Hockey Association: Shakopee Youth Hockey Association is a community-driven organization dedicated to fostering a lifelong love of hockey among youth in Shakopee, Minnesota. Our mission is to develop players’ skills, instill the values of teamwork and sportsmanship, and create a positive, inclusive, and rewarding experience for all participants.

Join our team and help shape the future of hockey in Shakopee!

Job Type: Part-time

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule

Schedule:

• Choose your own hours

Ability to Commute:

• Shakopee, MN 55379 (Preferred)

Ability to Relocate:

• Shakopee, MN 55379: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person