What are the responsibilities and job description for the Cross Country Head Coach position at Grace Christian Academy?
GCA CROSS COUNTRY PROGRAM HEAD JOB DESCRIPTION
Position Type: Stipend / Seasonal Coaching Position
Reports To: Athletic Director
Position Summary:
The Head Cross Country Coach is responsible for leading and developing a competitive, Christ-centered, and student-centered cross-country program that promotes excellence in athletics, academics, character, leadership, and sportsmanship. The coach will oversee all aspects of the boys’ and girls’ cross country program, from elementary to high school, including athlete development, practice planning, competition preparation, program culture, and community engagement.
The ideal candidate is a strong leader, effective communicator, relationship builder, and program developer with a passion for mentoring student-athletes both on and off the course.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Program Leadership & Development
- Build and sustain a highly competitive and respected cross-country program.
- Establish a clear vision, culture, and standards for the program.
- Develop long-term plans for program growth from middle school through varsity levels.
- Promote accountability, discipline, teamwork, and character development.
- Foster positive relationships with athletes, parents, faculty, and administration.
Coaching & Athlete Development:
- Plan and implement effective daily practices and pre/post season training programs.
- Teach proper running mechanics, conditioning, race strategy, nutrition, recovery, and injury prevention.
- Develop individualized training plans when appropriate.
- Prepare athletes physically and mentally for competition.
- Monitor athlete progress and provide consistent feedback and encouragement.
Competition Management
- Coordinate meet schedules, travel logistics, and race preparation.
- Ensure athletes are prepared and organized for all competitions.
- Demonstrate professionalism and sportsmanship during events.
- Maintain compliance with all conference, state association, and school policies.
Student-Athlete Mentorship:
- Encourage academic success and personal responsibility.
- Serve as a positive role model and mentor for student-athletes.
- Promote leadership development and team unity.
- Maintain open and professional communication with families and school staff.
Staff & Program Administration:
- Recruit, supervise, and mentor assistant coaches as needed.
- Maintain equipment inventory and assist with budget oversight.
- Organize team meetings, camps, summer workouts, and offseason development opportunities.
- Assist with fundraising and community engagement initiatives.
- Ensure proper supervision and safety of athletes at all times.
Qualifications:
- Must have a clear testimony of personal faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and a lifestyle of biblical integrity.
- Previous successful coaching experience in cross country and/or track & field preferred.
- Experience building or leading a successful athletic program is strongly preferred.
- Strong knowledge of endurance training principles and athlete development.
- Excellent leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
- Commitment to professionalism, integrity, and sportsmanship.
- CPR/First Aid certification preferred or willingness to obtain.
Preferred Characteristics:
- High-energy and relational leader.
- High-level running experience preferred
- Strong motivator and culture builder.
- Passionate about mentoring young people.
- Growth-minded with a commitment to continuous improvement.
- Ability to create excitement and visibility for the cross-country program within the school community.
Expectations:
- Maintain a positive and professional representation of the school and athletic department.
- Support the overall mission and vision of the school and of Grace Baptist Church
- Collaborate effectively with other coaches and athletic department staff.
- Attend required meetings, trainings, and school events.
- Demonstrate commitment to the holistic development of student-athletes.