Varsity Assistant Jumps and Hurdles Track Coach

Classification: Temporary, Non-Exempt, Seasonal

Reports To: Athletic Director, Associate Athletic Director, and Head Track & Field Coach

Job Purpose: Specialized Technical Development

The Athletics Assistant Coach – Jumps & Hurdles is responsible for the technical instruction and competitive preparation of athletes in specialized field and track events. This role focuses on mastering complex mechanics, ensuring athlete safety during high-impact activities, and fostering a culture of discipline and persistence. Working under the Head Coach, this position bridges individual event success with the overall goals of the Track & Field program.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Technical Instruction and Event Management

• Event Specialization: Plan, direct, and supervise high-quality workouts specifically tailored for hurdles (sprints and intermediates) and jumping events (Long, Triple, and High Jump).

• Mechanics & Technique: Provide expert instruction on hurdle rhythm, lead/trail leg mechanics, approach consistency, takeoff power, and safe landing fundamentals.

• Safety & Injury Prevention: Prioritize athlete wellness by implementing proper warm-up routines, plyometric progressions, and monitoring jump counts to prevent overuse injuries.

• Competition Coaching: Attend all meets and invitationals to manage event check-ins, conduct warm-ups, and provide real-time technical feedback between jumps or heats.

Program Leadership and Team Culture

• Positive Dynamics: Cultivate a supportive "team within a team" environment for jumpers and hurdlers while ensuring they remain integrated with the full Track & Field squad.

• Athlete Mentorship: Build strong, professional relationships with student-athletes, emphasizing the values of sportsmanship, resilience, and academic accountability.

• Communication: Maintain clear and consistent lines of communication with athletes regarding individual training schedules, performance goals, and meet lineups.

• Compliance: Complete and maintain all school and CIF-required coaching certifications, including health and safety protocols.

Operations and Logistics

• Equipment Management: Oversee the setup, breakdown, and storage of event-specific equipment, including hurdles, starting blocks, high jump pits, and measuring tapes.

• Travel Supervision: Fulfill supervisory duties by riding the team bus to away meets and ensuring student-athlete conduct meets school standards during travel.

• Administrative Support: Collaborate with the Head Coach to track athlete progress, submit results, and assist in determining optimal meet entries for scoring.

• Department Integration: Actively participate in all coaching staff meetings and professional development sessions as scheduled by the Athletic Department.

Qualifications and Skills

• Experience: Previous experience as a competitive jumper/hurdler at the high school or collegiate level, or prior coaching experience in these specific disciplines.

• Education: Undergraduate degree preferred.

• Technical Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of track & field rules, biomechanics for jumping events, and hurdle transition patterns.

• Interpersonal Skills: A positive, patient, and student-centered approach. Must be effective at translating complex movements into understandable cues for teenagers.

• Certifications: Current CPR/First Aid Certification is mandatory.

Working Conditions and Physical Demands

The role requires an outdoor time commitment during the spring season, including afternoons and several weekends for invitational meets.

Essential Physical Tasks

• Mobility: Ability to stand, walk, and move across track and field surfaces for extended periods (3–4 hours).

• Demonstration: Physical ability to demonstrate drill mechanics and proper form for jumps and hurdles.

• Lifting: Ability to lift and carry up to 40 lbs (e.g., moving hurdles, heavy high jump mats, or equipment bags).

Direct Reports

• None (Coordinates directly with the Head Track & Field Coach)