Position Summary
The Junior Group Assistant Coach is responsible for assisting the Head Coach in developing swimmers who are building the technical skills, training habits, and confidence needed for long-term success in competitive swimming. This position provides instruction to swimmers in the Junior Group, helping them master stroke technique, starts, turns, race skills, and practice habits while fostering a positive, disciplined, and encouraging team environment.
The Junior Group Assistant Coach plays a vital role in preparing swimmers for advancement to the Senior Group by emphasizing proper technique, consistent effort, sportsmanship, accountability, and a love for the sport.
Essential Responsibilities
- Lead and assist Junior Group practices as directed by the Head Coach.
- Teach proper technique in all four competitive strokes, starts, turns, underwater skills, and race finishes.
- Provide individualized feedback and stroke corrections appropriate to each swimmer's developmental level.
- Reinforce proper training habits, lane etiquette, practice discipline, and coachability.
- Help swimmers build confidence through positive encouragement and consistent instruction.
- Monitor swimmer safety and maintain active supervision throughout every practice.
- Attend assigned swim meets and provide deck coaching before, during, and after competition.
- Assist with swimmer evaluations and communicate observations and recommendations to the Head Coach.
- Support implementation of the training plan established by the Head Coach.
- Assist with practice setup, equipment, and maintaining an organized training environment.
- Serve as a positive role model who demonstrates professionalism, integrity, and respect for all athletes, families, officials, and fellow coaches.
Qualifications
- Competitive swimming experience required; previous coaching experience preferred.
- Working knowledge of competitive swimming technique and USA Swimming rules.
- Ability to teach swimmers with patience, enthusiasm, and clear communication.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively with athletes, parents, and coaching staff.
- Dependable, organized, and committed to the mission and values of the Harrison County YMCA and Capital Aquatics.
Required Certifications
Must obtain and maintain all certifications required by the Harrison County YMCA and USA Swimming, including:
- USA Swimming Coach Membership in good standing
- Athlete Protection Training (APT)
- CPR/AED and First Aid certification
- Any additional certifications required by the YMCA or USA Swimming
Core Expectations
The Junior Group Assistant Coach is expected to:
- Support the vision, philosophy, and direction established by the Head Coach.
- Place swimmer development ahead of winning.
- Foster a culture of commitment, accountability, sportsmanship, and respect.
- Build positive relationships with swimmers and families while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries.
- Communicate professionally with the Head Coach regarding swimmer progress, concerns, and successes.
- Contribute positively to a collaborative coaching staff dedicated to helping every swimmer reach his or her potential.
Work Location: In person
