Youth Sports Coach

YMCA OF ITHACA AND TOMPKINS COUNTY JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title: Youth Sports Coach
Shifts: Part-Time (1-10 hours per week, including nights and weekends)
FLSA Status: Non-exempt
Starting Pay Rate: $15.50 - $17.50 per hour
Reports to: Sports & Youth Programs Director
Revision Date: 10/8/2025
Primary Function/Department: Youth Development

POSITION SUMMARY

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit organization committed to strengthening the community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The Youth Sports Coach at the YMCA of Ithaca and Tompkins County is responsible for coaching and instructing youth participants in various sports. The role provides a positive, safe, and structured environment focused on skill development, fitness, teamwork, and sportsmanship through fun, engaging activities. Responsibilities include planning practices, leading games, and fostering an inclusive atmosphere where children of all abilities feel empowered to succeed and grow. You will also assist in the organization, delivery, and quality of YMCA programs for members, participants, and the community.

OUR CULTURE

At the Y, our mission and core values shape our culture. We strive to live our cause of strengthening communities every day.

• Welcoming: We are open to all, offering a place to belong and grow.
• Genuine: We value and embrace your individuality.
• Hopeful: We believe in your potential to be a catalyst for change.
• Nurturing: We support your journey toward reaching your full potential.
• Determined: We are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger, beginning with you.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Organize participation for various youth sports programs and leagues.
• Ensure programs meet the needs of children across all ages, abilities, and skill levels.
• Develop lesson plans for each session, emphasizing skills and drills appropriate for the age group.
• Greet participants and guardians as they enter and leave.
• Teach skills and teamwork in a safe, interactive way.
• Set a positive example for players and families.
• Set up, take down, and store equipment appropriately.
• Monitor equipment for maintenance and repair needs.
• Take attendance and assist with paperwork as needed.
• Practice and uphold YMCA core values and policies.
• Ensure YMCA program standards and safety procedures are followed.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Knowledge and proficiency in the sport(s) you will be leading.
• Ability to lead and teach multiple sports is preferred.
• Experience working with and supervising children.
• Experience developing, implementing, and evaluating programs.
• Ability to work independently with general direction.
• Strong customer service, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Strong time management skills.
• CPR, First Aid, and Emergency Oxygen certifications required (YMCA will provide within the first 90 days if not currently certified).

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• The employee needs sufficient strength, agility, and mobility to perform essential functions and safely supervise program activities in various indoor and outdoor locations.
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee will frequently use a computer for extended periods and communicate using a computer and phone/smart device.
• The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS

• 403B Tax-Deferred Retirement Savings Plan through YMCA Retirement Fund
• Free individual YMCA membership
• Discounts on YMCA program registrations
• Paid sick time

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $15.50 - $17.50 per hour

Expected hours: 1 – 10 per week

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Gym membership
• Paid time off
• Referral program
• Retirement plan

Work Location: In person

Salary : $16 - $18