What are the responsibilities and job description for the Recreation & Area Director position at Rush Soccer?
Position Overview
Rush United FC is seeking a motivated, energetic, and community-driven Recreation & Area Director to oversee and grow recreational soccer programming in the Abingdon area while helping develop the overall Rush pathway throughout surrounding Southwest Virginia communities.
This position is designed for a leader who is passionate about youth development, community engagement, and building positive soccer experiences for players and families of all levels. The ideal candidate will be highly organized, enthusiastic about growing the game, and committed to creating an enjoyable environment for players, coaches, and parents.
The Recreation & Area Director will manage local recreation programming, assist with coach development, oversee festivals and events, support player identification within the Rush pathway, and help expand Rush United FC’s presence within the region.
Primary Responsibilities
Recreation Program Leadership
This position is designed for a leader who is passionate about youth development, community engagement, and building positive soccer experiences for players and families of all levels. The ideal candidate will be highly organized, enthusiastic about growing the game, and committed to creating an enjoyable environment for players, coaches, and parents.
The Recreation & Area Director will manage local recreation programming, assist with coach development, oversee festivals and events, support player identification within the Rush pathway, and help expand Rush United FC’s presence within the region.
Primary Responsibilities
Recreation Program Leadership
- Oversee all recreational soccer programming within the Abingdon area
- Organize and manage player registrations and team formation
- Coordinate seasonal schedules, field usage, and practice plans
- Ensure a positive and development-focused environment for all players
- Maintain strong communication with families throughout the season
Coaching & Staff Development
- Recruit, assign, and mentor volunteer and paid coaches
- Lead coaching education sessions and support curriculum implementation
- Ensure all sessions align with Rush United FC player development philosophy
- Provide ongoing support and evaluations for local coaching staff
Player Development & Pathway Support
- Identify players who may fit into the Rush United FC Academy and competitive pathways
- Help transition interested players into advanced development opportunities
- Support Youth Development Academy events and ID sessions when needed
- Promote the Rush pathway from recreation to regional and national opportunities
Community Engagement
- Build relationships with local schools, recreation departments, and community organizations
- Help grow participation numbers throughout the Abingdon area
- Represent Rush United FC professionally within the local community
- Assist with social media content, promotions, and marketing initiatives
Event & Festival Management
- Organize local festivals, jamborees, clinics, and community events
- Assist with tournament logistics and club-wide programming
- Coordinate field setup, schedules, volunteers, and event operations
Administrative Responsibilities
- Utilize club systems such as Play Metrics for registrations and communication
- Track player participation and program growth
- Submit reports and updates to club leadership
- Maintain organization of equipment and training materials
Qualifications
- Previous coaching or soccer administration experience preferred
- Strong leadership and communication skills
- Passion for youth development and community engagement
- Ability to organize and manage multiple projects simultaneously
- Self-motivated with strong problem-solving skills
- US Soccer coaching licenses preferred (or willingness to obtain)
- Experience working with children and families
- Ability to work evenings and weekends as required
Preferred Characteristics
- Positive and energetic personality
- Strong community presence and networking ability
- Growth-minded leader who wants to help expand soccer opportunities
- Passion for creating a fun and professional club culture
- Ability to lead both recreational and developmental environments
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive compensation based on experience
- Opportunities for additional income through camps, clinics, and training
- Club support for coaching education and licensing
- Opportunities for advancement within Rush United FC
- Access to Rush coaching resources and development systems
About Rush United FC
Rush United FC is committed to developing players both on and off the field by providing professional coaching, clear developmental pathways, and meaningful opportunities within the local, regional, and national soccer landscape. The club focuses on creating a positive culture that emphasizes player development, community impact, leadership, and long-term growth for every athlete involved in the program.
Rush United FC is committed to developing players both on and off the field by providing professional coaching, clear developmental pathways, and meaningful opportunities within the local, regional, and national soccer landscape. The club focuses on creating a positive culture that emphasizes player development, community impact, leadership, and long-term growth for every athlete involved in the program.
Interested applicants are highly encouraged to include a copy of their resume and a minimum of two professional references to Adam Ritchie TechnicalDirector@swvarush.com with "Recreation & Area Director" in the subject line of your email.