Head Cross Country Coach

The Position

Redeemer University seeks a dynamic individual to lead, organize, direct, & further develop a successful cross country program within the OCAA, CCAA, and NCCAA. The Head Coach must demonstrate the ability to effectively and inspirationally lead a university-level program while fostering a distinctive culture in competitive athletics that trains student-athletes to share the love and hope of Jesus Christ wherever they are called to compete and serve.

The Head Coach will lead a team that displays excellence in Christian service, competition, academics, and campus leadership.

Responsibilities

Coaching

• Schedule, plan and conduct regular practice sessions during the academic year as permitted by OCAA, CCAA, and NCCAA.
• Tactical and technical preparation of the team for meets and traveling with the team to away from home competitions at all times.
• Development and implementation of individual and team high-performance sports training plans that foster student-athlete development and team success, including working with the strength and condition coach to plan and develop a comprehensive and year-round strength training and conditioning program for the student-athlete.
• Coordinate the hiring, training, and mentoring of assistant coaches and/or volunteer assistants with the AD.
• Ensure the safety of student-athletes and coaching staff through careful monitoring of activities, equipment, and facilities utilized by designated sport.

Recruitment

• Develop an effective long term recruitment plan/program in collaboration with the Director of Athletics
• Recruit students who align with the University's mission and are academically eligible to participate according to the OCAA, CCAA, and Redeemer University regulations.
• Able to both communicate and understand what is unique about the Reformed Christian faith and why it is important to the University’s mission and place in higher education, as well as the ability to share this perspective in exciting and engaging ways.
• Conduct off-campus recruiting and talent evaluations as a representative of Redeemer University.
• Work with the Athletic Director, Athletic Department, and Admissions staff to successfully organize and conduct multiple recruiting official visits each year.

Sport Development

• Work with the Athletics Department staff to conduct preseason tryouts, ID Camps, and external running events each season.
• Work closely with the Athletic Department to retain rosters of eligible student-athletes.
• Advance the athletics and cross country program by cultivating and coordinating relationships with program alumni.
• Pursue continuing education in coaching strategies, competencies, and techniques.
• Establish, regulate, and enforce all team and department regulations regarding personal conduct.
• Function as an influential team member, working cooperatively and in unity with the various staff of the athletic department and the institution to achieve departmental goals.
• Assist in creating a culture that embraces and supports student-athletes, coaches, and the team's pursuit of Christian excellence.
• Adherence and compliance with all Redeemer University, OCAA, and CCAA requirements, rules, policies, and procedures

Spiritual Leadership

• Provide consistent opportunities for spiritual development of student-athletes and coaches.
• Contribute to the faith development of the individual student-athlete by challenging student-athletes to excel as followers of Christ for His glory.
• In collaboration with the Athletics Department develop, implement and execute opportunities for Christian service through the medium of sport.
• Oversee the development of a team culture that mirrors the mission and values of the University and Athletics Department.
• Demonstrate Christian values in attitudes, words, and actions that will positively reflect the testimony of Jesus Christ and Redeemer University.
• Ensure assistant coaches and student-athletes are positive Christian representatives of the University at all times.
• Provide leadership that promotes positive attitudes, good sportsmanship, and Christian character.

Preferred Skills and Attributes

• Exceptional interpersonal communication skills, sound administrative skills, and strong motivational abilities.
• A commitment to fair play.
• Willingness and ability to work flexible hours, especially during the sports season portion of the academic year, which includes many evenings and weekends.
• Knowledge and understanding of OCAA and NCCAA regulations.
• Ability to work collegially at all levels, exercising tact and diplomacy, at times in stressful situations.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and disciple student-athletes in their Christian faith.

Education, Training & Certifications

• A college diploma or Bachelor's degree is preferred, combined with coaching experience in an academic setting (asset).
• First Aid and CPR certified.
• Minimum two years of coaching experience at a high-performance level. (college or University preferred).
• Demonstrated success as a coach at a college or university level preferred.
• Knowledge of advanced coaching methods is preferred.
• NCCP LTAD Performance coach stream asset.

Other Requirements

• Understanding and commitment to Redeemer University (mission, values, and Reformed Christian identity)
• The ability, and desire, to work successfully within a team-oriented department environment.
• Ability to do light physical work such as setting up nets and training equipment.

The Application Process

Applicants are requested to email their application materials (cover letter and resume) and include a statement that articulates their faith perspective and its relation to the mission of Redeemer University. A range of qualifications are evaluated including distinguishing characteristics that demonstrate congruence with our identity as a university in the Protestant and Reformed Christian tradition. Only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.