As the second-largest Catholic university in New England, and one of 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. More than 10,000 students attend the University’s eight colleges and schools: College of Arts & Sciences; School of Communication, Media & the Arts; School of Social Work; School of Computer Science & Engineering; College of Health Professions; the Isabelle Farrington College of Education & Human Development; the Jack Welch College of Business & Technology 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 institutions as it was established and led by laity. The 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 390 Colleges: 2025 Edition, and Best Business Schools: 2024 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. www.sacredheart.edu
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 Assistant Coach will work alongside the Head Coach to support the development and coaching of student-athletes at Notre Dame Prep. This position is focused on fostering a positive and competitive environment while promoting academic excellence, physical fitness, and sportsmanship. The Assistant Coach will contribute to the team’s training, development, and performance, helping to ensure that the athletic program aligns with the school’s mission and values.
Principal Duties & Responsibilities
- Assist the Head Coach in planning, organizing, and conducting practices, training sessions, and team events.
- Provide instruction, feedback, and motivation to student-athletes during practices and competitions.
- Help develop and implement team strategies, drills, and plays to improve performance.
- Monitor and ensure that student-athletes follow all school and athletic policies, including academic eligibility and conduct standards.
- Assist with the evaluation of new student-athletes.
- Assist with team communications, including emails, announcements, and social media, to keep players and families informed.
- Help organize and supervise team events, including team-building activities, fundraisers, and special occasions.
- Support the Head Coach in managing the team’s equipment, uniforms, and other logistical needs.
- Foster a positive, respectful, and inclusive environment that promotes good sportsmanship, discipline, and teamwork.
- Attend coaching staff meetings and contribute to the planning and review of the team’s progress throughout the season.
- Assist with monitoring the health and wellness of student-athletes, ensuring they receive proper care and attention during and after practices or competitions.
- Provide feedback and recommendations to the Head Coach regarding team performance, individual player progress, and areas for improvement.
- Represent the school positively and professionally at all times, both on and off the field.
- Other duties as assigned by the Head Coach or Athletic Director.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, & Other Requirements
- High school diploma required; high school athletic experience or coaching certification preferred.
- At least 1-2 years of coaching or playing experience in the sport, ideally at the high school or collegiate level.
- Ability to complete and maintain First Aid certification
- Strong knowledge of the sport, including techniques, rules, and strategies.
- Ability to communicate effectively with student-athletes, parents, and school staff.Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and inspire student-athletes.
- Ability to work as part of a team and collaborate effectively with the Head Coach and other coaching staff.
- Organizational skills to manage practice schedules, equipment, and other team logistics.
- Ability to foster a positive, respectful, and inclusive team environment.
- Strong commitment to the academic and personal development of student-athletes.
- Ability to maintain professional conduct at all times, representing Notre Dame Prep both on and off the field.
Unusual Working Conditions
- Evening and weekend hours are often required for practices, games, and team events.
- Travel to away games, tournaments, or competitions may be required.
- The position involves physical activity, including standing for extended periods, participating in drills, and demonstrating techniques.
- Flexibility to assist in multiple roles (e.g., recruiting, event planning) depending on the needs of the team and school.
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.
