Notre Dame Prep - Head Coach Wrestling

Job description

About Sacred Heart University As one of the nation’s largest Catholic universities and among the fastest-growing private doctoral institutions in the U.S., Sacred Heart University is a national leader in shaping higher education for the 21st century. SHU offers more than 100 undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs on its Fairfield, Conn., campus. Sacred Heart also has a campus in Dingle, Ireland, and offers online programs. Nearly 10,000 students attend the University’s nine colleges and schools: College of Arts & Sciences; School of Communication, Media & the Arts; School of Social Work; School of Performing Arts; College of Health Professions; the Isabelle Farrington College of Education & Human Development; the Jack Welch College of Business & Technology; School of Computer Science & Engineering and the Dr. Susan L. Davis, R.N., & Richard J. Henley College of Nursing. Sacred Heart, a Laudato Si’ campus, stands out from other Catholic universities as it was established to be led by the laity. This contemporary Catholic university is rooted in the rich Catholic intellectual tradition and the liberal arts and, at the same time, cultivates students to be forward thinkers who enact change—in their own lives, professions and in their communities. The Princeton Review includes SHU in its Best 391 Colleges: 2026 Edition and Best Business Schools: 2025 Edition. Sacred Heart is home to the award-winning, NPR-affiliate station, WSHU Public Radio; a Division I athletics program and an impressive performing arts program that includes choir, band, dance and theatre. View SHU’s Faculty Experts Here To apply Qualified candidates are invited to submit a cover letter, resume, or curriculum vitae, along with the contact information for three letters of reference, who will be contacted only if you are selected for an interview. Only applications submitted via our Career portal will be considered. Sacred Heart University complies with all federal and state employment laws and regulations. Applicants must be lawfully authorized to work for any employer in the United States. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa for this position. Position Summary The Head Coach is responsible for leading, developing, and managing a competitive sports team at Notre Dame Prep. This position requires strong leadership skills, a deep understanding of the sport, and the ability to cultivate an environment that promotes sportsmanship, teamwork, and personal growth among student-athletes. The Head Coach will oversee all aspects of the team’s operations, including practice schedules, game preparation, athlete recruitment, and coordination with other school departments to ensure the team's success and well-being. The Head Coach will serve as a role model for student-athletes, promoting the school’s mission and values both on and off the field. Principal Duties & Responsibilities • Team Leadership and Coaching: ◦ Plan, organize, and conduct daily practices to develop the skills, fitness, and teamwork of athletes. ◦ Lead and motivate student-athletes, ensuring they are focused, disciplined, and respectful both on and off the field. ◦ Set clear goals and expectations for the team, and work with student-athletes to achieve them. ◦ Ensure that all team members understand the strategies, tactics, and skills necessary to compete at a high level in the sport. ◦ Promote teamwork, sportsmanship, and a positive attitude among athletes. • Game Preparation and Management: ◦ Develop game strategies and ensure that the team is prepared for competition. ◦ Supervise and manage all aspects of game day, including team warm-ups, player substitutions, and in-game coaching adjustments. ◦ Work with the Athletic Director to schedule games, tournaments, and other competitions. ◦ Coordinate with opposing teams, officials, and event organizers to ensure smooth execution of games and events. • Player Development and Recruitment: ◦ Develop individualized player development plans to help athletes improve their skills and reach their full potential. ◦ Monitor the academic performance of athletes, ensuring they meet academic eligibility requirements and maintain a balance between athletics and academics. ◦ Foster a positive and supportive environment that encourages student-athletes to excel academically, athletically, and personally. • Team Administration and Communication: ◦ Maintain up-to-date records on athletes’ progress, team performance, and other relevant data. ◦ Communicate regularly with athletes, parents, and school administration about practice schedules, game schedules, and team-related matters. ◦ Hold regular meetings with team members to discuss performance, goals, and any issues that may arise. ◦ Assist in organizing team events such as team-building activities, banquets, and fundraisers. • Compliance and Safety: ◦ Ensure the team adheres to all school, league, and state regulations and policies, including eligibility requirements, safety guidelines, and sportsmanship expectations. ◦ Monitor the physical health and safety of student-athletes, ensuring that proper precautions are taken during practice and games. ◦ Work closely with athletic trainers and medical staff to ensure that athletes receive proper treatment and rehabilitation when necessary. ◦ Ensure all equipment is properly maintained and meets safety standards. Return all equipment at the conclusion of the season. • Collaboration with Athletic Department: ◦ Work closely with the Athletic Director and other coaches to develop the overall athletic program and promote a positive, inclusive sports culture within the school. ◦ Attend departmental meetings and contribute to the overall goals of the athletics program. ◦ Support and encourage the involvement of other coaches and athletes in school events and activities, fostering a sense of community across the athletic department. ◦ Work collaboratively with faculty and staff to ensure that student-athletes maintain a healthy balance between their academic and athletic responsibilities. • Community and Alumni Engagement: ◦ Promote the team and the athletic program to the broader school community, including alumni, parents, and supporters. ◦ Represent the team and the school at Open House, community events, alumni gatherings, and other relevant functions. ◦ Foster a culture of pride and support for the team, encouraging school spirit and fan engagement. Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, & Other Attributes • A bachelor's degree in Physical Education, Sports Management, or a related field is preferred. • At least 3-5 years of coaching experience at the high school or collegiate level, with a proven record of success in the sport. Experience as a head coach is preferred. • First Aid/CPR certification is required. • Skills: ◦ In-depth knowledge of the sport, including its rules, strategies, and techniques. ◦ Strong leadership, motivational, and interpersonal skills. ◦ Ability to develop and implement effective training programs and game strategies. ◦ Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with athletes, parents, and school staff. ◦ Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage time effectively. ◦ Commitment to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and competitive team culture. ◦ Knowledge of safety protocols and injury prevention in sports. • Other Qualifications: ◦ A strong commitment to the mission and values of Notre Dame Prep, with a focus on character development, sportsmanship, and academic excellence. ◦ Ability to work with students of diverse backgrounds and skill levels. ◦ Ability to maintain composure and professionalism under pressure, particularly during competitions. ◦ Strong understanding of the importance of balancing academics and athletics for student-athletes. ◦ Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information regarding student-athletes. Unusual Working Conditions • Evening and weekend work is required for practices, games, and tournaments. • Travel may be required for away games or competitions. • Frequent outdoor activity and time spent in various weather conditions, depending on the sport. This job posting provides an overview of the role's general nature and expected tasks. It is not meant to be a comprehensive list of all duties performed. The university reserves the right to modify or reassign job responsibilities at any time. This posting description does not constitute an employment contract, either explicit or implied. Sacred Heart University is a space that respects and embraces differences, recognizes the unique contributions that individuals can make, and creates a community that maximizes the potential of all faculty and staff. As an equal opportunity employer, we encourage applications from qualified candidates who reflect the wider world in which we live.