Head Field Hockey Coach

Job Title: Head Coach, Field Hockey
Department: Athletics
Reports To: Director of Athletics
Position Type: 12 months

Institution: Sweet Briar College
Location: Sweet Briar, VA

Job Summary:
Sweet Briar College, a women’s liberal arts institution with a long-standing commitment to academic excellence and women’s leadership, is seeking a Head Field Hockey Coach to lead its NCAA Division III field hockey program. The Head Coach is responsible for all aspects of planning, managing, and growing a competitive field hockey program in line with the College’s values and the regulations of the NCAA and the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC). This is a full-time position requiring active involvement during the traditional and non-traditional seasons, year-round recruiting, and student-athlete development. The position also plays an active role in fundraising, alumnae relations, and the creation of external revenue opportunities through camps, clinics, and events that enhance the program’s visibility and sustainability.

Essential Responsibilities:

Program Leadership & Compliance:

• Lead the women’s field hockey program in accordance with NCAA Division III, ODAC, and Sweet Briar College policies.
• Develop and implement a clear vision for the field hockey program with a focus on competitive excellence, academic success, and personal development of student-athletes.

Recruitment:

• Identify, recruit, and retain student-athletes who align with Sweet Briar’s academic standards and athletic values.
• Coordinate campus visits and collaborate with the Office of Admissions to support enrollment goals.
• Maintain frequent and effective communication with prospective student-athletes, their families, and high school/club coaches.

Coaching & Team Development:

• Plan, organize, and lead team practices and competitions.
• Evaluate team and individual performance; create development plans to enhance skill, fitness, and teamwork.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and empowering team culture that supports leadership and growth.

Program Operations:

• Manage team logistics including game scheduling, team travel, and budget planning in collaboration with the Director of Athletics.
• Oversee the inventory, selection, and maintenance of team equipment and uniforms.
• Collaborate with athletic training and strength staff to implement conditioning and injury prevention programs.
• Ensure player safety and facility upkeep during practices and matches.

Academic Support & Retention:

• Monitor student-athlete academic performance and work closely with faculty and academic support staff.
• Promote a balance between academics, athletics, and leadership development.

Fundraising & External Relations:

• Develop and implement fundraising strategies in coordination with the Office of Alumnae Relations and Development.
• Engage and cultivate relationships with alumnae to foster program support and alumni-athlete networking opportunities.
• Plan, promote, and operate summer camps, clinics, and youth programs as revenue-generating and community outreach opportunities.
• Create donor engagement opportunities tied to program milestones, team events, and facility enhancements.

Administrative Duties:

• Maintain accurate records including statistics, compliance documents, and travel reports.
• Participate in departmental meetings, College-wide events, and community engagement initiatives.
• Supervise assistant coaches and ensure compliance with NCAA and institutional standards.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
• Experience as a coach or player at the high school, club, or collegiate level.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• College-level coaching experience.
• Understanding of NCAA Division III philosophy.
• Current AED/CPR/First Aid certification or willingness to obtain.
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in athletics.
• Experience with fundraising, donor engagement, or running sports-based camps and clinics is highly desirable.

About Sweet Briar College:

Sweet Briar College is a nationally recognized liberal arts college for women with a focus on preparing the next generation of women leaders. Located on a stunning 2,840-acre campus in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the College values excellence in teaching and a strong community built on honor and respect. Sweet Briar is committed to fostering a culture of integrity, inclusion, and lifelong learning.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree
• Must adhere to the philosophy of Sweet Briar College and NCAA Division III rules
• CPR/AED certification
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Experience coaching/participation at the collegiate level
• Demonstrated ability and passion to teach skills to a range of experience levels
• Strong commitment to NCAA Division III philosophy
• Motivation and skill in recruiting prospective student-athletes
• Willingness to fundraise
• Ability to interact with all levels of the Sweet Briar College community
• Ability to work weekdays, evenings, and weekends
• Candidate must have a valid driver’s license and meet college’s insurability standards

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Coaching, Education, or similar field
• Three or more years of collegiate coaching and recruiting experience

Physical Demands: Moderate activity; must be able to work effectively with student-athletes and lift up to 20-lbs on occasion.  Extensive periods of sitting/standing may be required.

Travel: As competition and recruiting needs dictate.

Deadline for Submission: Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. 

Other Duties: This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.