Head Wrestling Coach and Head of District Wrestling Operations/ Certified or Non-Certified Position

Length of Position: Permanent

Location of Certified or Non-Certified Position: To Be Determined

Location of Head Wrestling Coach: McDowell High School

Type of Benefits:Full if Full time Certified or Non-Certified Position

Months per year: 10 months for Certified or Non-Certified Position and Position Head Wrestling Coach - season starting in Fall 2026

Number of hours per week: 37.50 for Certified or Non-Certifed Full time position and/or Coaching Seasonal

Number of days per week: 5

State Salary Schedule: Yes for Certified or Non-Certified Positon; Coaching Supplement for Head Wrestling Coach

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced and visionary leader to create a sustainable wrestling program from the ground up. The ideal candidate will be responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive wrestling program that emphasizes athletic excellence, academic achievement, and character development at the middle and high school levels.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Program Development and Leadership

• Design and implement a comprehensive wrestling program from middle school through high school levels
• Establish and maintain a regimented and structured documented program that ensures consistency across all levels
• Create and maintain detailed documentation of program policies, procedures, and development plans
• Ensure total compliance with all local NCHSAA regulations and guidelines, including the MCS Athletic Handbook
• Thorough knowledge of all the Athletic Policies approved by the McDowell County Schools Board of Education and is responsible for its implementation by the entire staff of the sports program
• Understand the proper administrative line of command and refer to all requests of grievances through proper channels. Awareness of all public/staff/departmental meetings that require attendance
• Establish the fundamental philosophy, skills, and techniques to be taught by staff. Design conferences, clinics and staff meetings to insure staff awareness of overall program
• Delegate specific duty, supervise implementation, and at season’s end, analyze staff effectiveness and evaluate all assistants
• Maintain discipline adjust grievances, and work to increase morale and cooperation
• Assist the athletic director in scheduling, providing transportation, and requirements for tournament and special sports events
• Assist in the necessary preparation to hold scheduled sport events or practices and adhere to scheduled facility times. Coordinate program with maintenance and school employees.
• Develop and implement effective strategies for student-athlete recruitment, retention and expiration of opportunities for those who seek to wrestle at the JUCO/Collegiate levels.

Athletic Development

• Create and oversee year-round training and conditioning programs spring/summer/fall
• Plan and execute summer camps and off-season development programs
• Promote multi-sport participation amongst all student-athletes
• Support and actively collaborate with other athletic programs within district school
• Implement modern coaching techniques and strategies to maximize wrestler development and improve safety

Community Engagement and Program Management

• Actively participate in fundraising initiatives and program development activities (i.e. Booster Club, fundraising events etc.)
• Build and maintain strong relationships with students, parents, faculty, and community stakeholders
• Establish a relationship with athletic directors, coaches and administrators at local middle schools to develop feeder programs
• Create and maintain a strong sense of pride in community, programs and within oneself

Student-Athlete Development

• Mentor and motivate student-athletes to achieve excellence in academics, athletics, and beyond
• Monitor academic progress and maintain high academic standards for all program participants. Including remediation for those who require it and setting attainable goals for all
• Implement character development and leadership programs
• Foster a positive team culture that emphasizes sportsmanship and personal growth

Qualifications and Requirements

Education and Experience

• Proven successful coaching experience at the high school level or higher
• Demonstrated experience in program building and development

Skills and Abilities

• Strong leadership and organizational skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities
• Proven ability to motivate and develop student-athletes
• Demonstrated success in recruiting and retention
• Proficiency in current wrestling strategies and techniques
• Knowledge of strength and conditioning principles
• Understanding of NCHSAA rules and regulations

Personal Qualities

• Commitment to academic excellence and athletic achievement
• Strong moral character and high ethical standards
• Ability to build and maintain positive relationships
• Dedication to continuous program improvement
• Willingness to participate in all aspects of program development

Physical Requirements

• Ability to demonstrate athletic movements and techniques
• Capable of standing for extended periods
• Ability to lift and move athletic equipment
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel as needed

Additional Responsibilities

• Manage program budget and resources
• Coordinate with athletic administration on scheduling and facility usage
• Supervise and evaluate assistant coaches
• Maintain equipment inventory and safety standards
• Attend professional development opportunities
• Organize and participate in Camps
• Participate in athletic department meetings and events
• All other duties as assigned

The successful candidate will be expected to create a positive, competitive program that emphasizes character development, academic achievement, and athletic excellence while building a strong sense of community and school pride.

DISCLAIMER

The preceding job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees to this job.