Unified Outdoor Track Assistant Coach

The Assistant Unified Outdoor Track Coach supports the Head Coach in leading the unified track program, which integrates students with and without intellectual disabilities. The assistant coach helps create an inclusive, positive, and educational environment that promotes skill development, teamwork, and personal growth. This role includes supporting practices, meets, and mentorship while ensuring all athletes are engaged, motivated, and safe. Key Responsibilities Coaching & Athlete Development Assist in teaching track and field skills adapted for athletes of varying abilities, including running, relays, jumps, and throws. Provide individualized instruction and support to promote skill growth, confidence, and enjoyment. Encourage teamwork, perseverance, and positive social interactions among all athletes. Help modify drills and activities to meet the needs of diverse participants. Practice & Competition Support Assist in planning and conducting structured, inclusive practices. Support athletes during competitions, including event assignments, warm-ups, and in-event guidance. Collaborate with the head coach to ensure all athletes have meaningful opportunities to participate. Reinforce rules, teamwork, and sportsmanship during practices and competitions. Team Culture & Mentorship Promote a positive, inclusive, and supportive team culture. Encourage leadership, responsibility, and respect among student-athletes. Serve as a role model demonstrating patience, professionalism, and integrity. Support the social, emotional, and athletic development of all participants. Program Administration Assist with attendance, participation tracking, and communication with families. Help manage equipment, uniforms, and meet logistics. Collaborate with the head coach and athletic department to ensure program alignment and smooth operations. Support volunteer coordination and engagement when appropriate. Safety & Compliance Ensure the safety and supervision of all athletes during practices, meets, and travel. Follow North Middlesex School District, MIAA, and NFHS guidelines for unified sports. Maintain required certifications including First Aid, CPR, and concussion training. Reinforce proper warm-up, cool-down, and injury-prevention techniques tailored to all athletes. Qualifications Required Knowledge of track and field fundamentals and ability to adapt instruction for a wide range of abilities. Ability to teach, mentor, and motivate student-athletes with varying skill levels. Strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills. Completion of required coaching certifications and successful background checks. Preferred Experience with unified sports, adaptive athletics, or coaching students with disabilities. Familiarity with inclusive coaching strategies and best practices. Ability to collaborate effectively with head coach, volunteers, aides, and school staff. Experience promoting social, emotional, and athletic growth in diverse student populations. Work Environment & Schedule Practices typically held after school; competitions may include afternoons or evenings. Participation in preseason planning, skill clinics, and optional offseason development programs. Collaboration with head coach, volunteers, and athletic department staff to ensure meaningful experiences for all athletes.