Head Coach, Cross Country, Men's & Women's

William Jewell College, an NCAA Division II institution competing in the Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC), invites applications for the position of head men’s and women’s cross country coach. This role is responsible for providing leadership, vision, and direction for all aspects of the cross country programs, including recruiting, coaching, program administration, academic support, and student-athlete development.

The head coach will cultivate a competitive, values-driven environment aligned with the College’s mission, institutional priorities, and the Division II “Life in the Balance” philosophy.

The head coach will recruit during the 2026-2027 academic year with expectation for full sport sponsorship participation in the fall of 2027.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

Program Leadership amp; Culture

· Establish a program identity centered on academic achievement, competitive excellence, and personal growth.

· Create a positive, disciplined, and inclusive team culture that emphasizes character, accountability, and high standards.

· Plan, implement, and evaluate practice sessions, tactical systems, training cycles, and game-day strategies.

· Provide individualized instruction to enhance technical, tactical, and physical development.

· Oversee strength training, conditioning, and sport performance in collaboration with campus partners.

· Identify, evaluate, recruit, and retain student-athletes who reflect the academic and athletic profile of the College.

· Manage all recruiting communication, talent identification, scouting, and on-campus visits in accordance with NCAA and GLVC regulations.

· Oversee program budget, team travel, scheduling, equipment inventory, and operational logistics.

· Manage assistant coaches, graduate assistants, and student staff (if applicable).

· Maintain strong working relationships with athletic training, strength amp; conditioning, admissions, and academic support services.

· Ensure full compliance with NCAA Division II, GLVC, and William Jewell College policies and procedures.

· Complete required documentation, reports, and training modules in a timely manner.

· Promote a safe, healthy environment for student-athletes.

· Represent William Jewell College with professionalism in all internal and external interactions.

· Participate in departmental and institutional initiatives, community service, and campus events.

· Engage alumni, donors, and the broader community to elevate program visibility and support.

Qualifications

Required

· Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.

· Demonstrated coaching experience in cross country (collegiate, club, or professional).

· Proven ability to recruit, teach, and develop student-athletes.

· Strong understanding of NCAA rules and a commitment to compliance.

· Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills.

Preferred

· Master’s degree.

· Previous NCAA Division II or collegiate head coaching experience.

· Experience in fundraising, alumni engagement, and program-building initiatives.

· CPR/First Aid certification.

Position Details

· Employment Type: Full-time

· Compensation: Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications

· Benefits: Full William Jewell College benefits package

· Work Schedule: Flexible; includes evenings, weekends, and travel as required for training, competition, and recruiting