Racquets Pro

Job Summary

The Detroit Athletic Club (DAC) Racquets Professional works closely with the Director of Athletics, Head Squash Professional, and Sports Manager to deliver high-quality squash instruction, lead all pickleball programming and operations, and support the development of additional racquet sport opportunities including padel, tennis, and other emerging formats. This is a coaching-forward, member-facing role with modest squash-related administrative responsibilities, focused on maximizing participation, engagement, facility utilization, and the overall racquets experience across the Club while delivering exceptional member service.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Coaching & Programming

• Deliver private lessons, group lessons, and clinics in collaboration with the Head Squash Professional & Sports Manager
• Assist with squash clinics, junior development initiatives, and member engagement efforts.
• Serve as the primary professional lead for Pickleball, including:
  • Lessons, clinics, leagues, ladders, and social programming
  • Skill development for beginner through advanced players
  • Member onboarding, engagement, and retention initiatives
• Support evaluation, planning, and implementation of additional racquet sport opportunities including, but not limited to, padel and tennis.
• Stay current with racquet sports teaching methods, equipment trends, and industry best practices.

Member Experience & Culture

• Actively promote and model the Detroit Athletic Club’s service culture in every interaction.
• Maintain a highly visible, approachable, and energetic presence on and off court.
• Serve as an ambassador for squash, pickleball, and future racquet sport participants of all skill levels.
• Foster an inclusive, welcoming, and community-driven racquets environment.

Operations & Administration (Modest / Shared)

• Assist the Head Squash Professional with limited squash administrative functions, including:
  • Program coordination support
  • Event and clinic setup
  • Member communication as needed
• Oversee pickleball scheduling, court utilization, and program logistics.
• Ensure appropriate balance between lessons, clinics, programs, leagues and administrative duties.
• Assist in tracking participation, lesson activity, and revenue associated with racquet programs.

Collaboration & Growth

• Work collaboratively with the Director of Athletics, Head Squash Professional, and Sports Manager to develop innovative programming and events.
• Partner with Athletics, Marketing, F&B, and Club Operations to enhance racquets-based experiences.
• Assist with racquet sport exhibitions, tournaments, and member socials.
• Contribute ideas and execution support for new racquet-based initiatives and experiences.
• Contribute to expansion of Racquets Pro Shop.

Facility & Professional Standards

• Assist in maintaining racquet courts and related facilities in a clean, professional, and safe condition.
• Enforce all Racquet Sports policies and DAC Clubhouse Rules.
• Attend staff meetings, trainings, and professional development sessions as directed.
• Contribute to overall department success by performing additional duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Strong playing and coaching background
• Minimum 2–3 years of racquet sports coaching or professional experience preferred.
• Demonstrated experience running or supporting racquets programming strongly preferred.
• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a team-oriented athletic department.
• Basic computer and scheduling proficiency.
• Authorized to work in the United States

CERTIFICATIONS (Preferred)

• US Squash, SCR, PPR, or equivalent racquet sport certifications.
• Willingness to pursue additional certifications aligned with program expansion.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT

This role requires the ability to demonstrate skills on court, stand for extended periods, and assist with basic facility operations. Physical demands and work environment are consistent with a high-level athletic and racquet sports facility.