The Head Swimming & Diving Coach at Lafayette College is responsible for leading a Division I athletic program within the Patriot League, while upholding the institution’s commitment to academic excellence, athletic integrity, and student-athlete development. This role requires strategic leadership in coaching, recruiting, and program administration, ensuring compliance with NCAA and Patriot League regulations. The head coach plays a pivotal role in fostering a positive team culture, mentoring student-athletes, and promoting success both on and off the field. Additionally, the position involves alumni engagement, community outreach, and collaboration with faculty and administration to support the holistic growth of student-athletes within Lafayette’s rigorous academic environment.
Primary Responsibilities:
Coaching & Player Development
- Develop and implement a competitive strategy and team philosophy that promotes program growth and competes for championships.
- Conduct practices and training sessions that enhance technical skills, teamwork, and competitive excellence.
- Foster leadership, discipline, and strong team culture in line with Lafayette’s traditions.
- Utilize performance analysis, conditioning programs, and injury prevention strategies.
- Hire and supervise assistant coaches while promoting a positive and development-focused approach.
Academic Support & Compliance
- Ensure student-athletes meet Lafayette’s high academic standards and NCAA eligibility requirements.
- Collaborate with faculty, academic advisors, and campus resources to support student-athlete academic progress.
- Maintain high team GPA and strong graduation rates, aligning with the Patriot League’s emphasis on academic excellence.
Recruiting & Retention
- Identify and recruit high-character student-athletes who fit Lafayette’s rigorous academic and athletic profile.
- Develop relationships with high school coaches, club teams, and prospective students to build a strong recruiting pipeline.
- Work closely with Lafayette’s admissions office to guide recruits through the application and enrollment process.
- Implement retention strategies to ensure student-athletes thrive academically, athletically, and personally at Lafayette.
Program Administration & Compliance
- Ensure full compliance with NCAA, Patriot League, and Lafayette College regulations.
- Collaborate with the Athletic Compliance Office on eligibility, recruitment, and reporting.
- Manage team budget, including travel, equipment, scholarships, and fundraising initiatives.
- Oversee scheduling of games, practices, travel, and postseason play while considering academic schedules.
- Engage with Lafayette’s athletic department leadership to align the program with institutional priorities.
Leadership & Mentorship
- Promote Lafayette College’s core values of engaged learning, community belonging, responsible citizenship, purposeful sustainability, and institutional excellence.
- Serve as a mentor, role model, and advocate for student-athletes.
- Foster an inclusive, disciplined, and positive team culture.
- Ensure student-athletes engage in leadership development opportunities on campus.
- Support mental health and well-being initiatives for student-athletes.
Community & Alumni Engagement
- Represent Lafayette College and the athletic program at alumni events, community initiatives, and media engagements.
- Organize and encourage student-athletes to participate in service projects, aligning with Lafayette’s commitment to civic engagement.
- Develop strong alumni relations and fundraising strategies to support program growth.
- Collaborate with the college’s marketing and communications team to promote the team’s success.
Qualifications:
- Previous 2-5 years of experience as primary assistant coach, associate head coach, or head coach.
- Bachelor’s Degree required. Masters Degree preferred.
- Upon position acceptance, successful completion of PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Candidates must exhibit the ability to build and maintain professional relationships with student-athletes and staff, showcasing a genuine passion for enhancing the student-athlete experience. Strong organizational, verbal, and written communication skills are essential. The ideal candidate will excel in collaborating with individuals from diverse backgrounds, educational levels, and cultural perspectives. They must demonstrate a commitment to adhering to Lafayette College, Patriot League, and NCAA rules and regulations. Flexibility to work evenings and weekends is required.
Compensation & Application:
This is a full-time 12 month position and includes a competitive benefits package. Salary range is commensurate with qualifications and experience. Please apply via https://apply.interfolio.com/190959 and provide 3 professional references, resume, and cover letter. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
Lafayette College is committed to creating a diverse community, one that is inclusive and responsive, and is supportive of each and all of its faculty, students, and staff. All members of the College community share a responsibility for creating, maintaining, and developing a learning environment in which difference is valued, equity is sought, and inclusiveness is practiced. All Lafayette operations reflect the College’s commitment to Diversity, Equity, Access, and Inclusion (DEAI) initiatives, and Lafayette welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds.
