Coed Cross Country, Middle School Head Coach

We seek a dynamic and energetic Head Coach for our Middle School Coed Cross Country Team. This position is vital for Athletics at Pilgrim, as they will lead the development and implementation of Cross Country coaching and teaching strategies. As the Head Coach, you will oversee our Middle School program, including player development, strategic planning, team communications, and fostering a positive team culture. This is an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic individual who is motivated to grow the success of our athletes both on and off the course. We're looking for someone who loves coaching, is dedicated to youth development through sports, and is ready to help us reach new heights with our program. If that's you, let us know!

Core Duties and Responsibilities

● Create a safe, inclusive, and supportive team environment

● Organize and lead engaging, purposeful, and race-like practice sessions focused on youth development

● Send weekly schedule updates and key reminders to student-athletes and families

● Supervise student-athletes at all practices, games, and events, ensuring safety and positive behavior

● Adapt coaching strategies to meet gender-specific engagement needs, to support and retain girls in sports

● Support the broader Cross Country program by aligning with Varsity coaches, attending trainings, and teaching a shared system of running

● Demonstrate a high degree of ethics, sportsmanship, and professionalism, serving as a positive role model

● Adhere to the school’s mission for athletics as well as league policies and bylaws

● Support program growth, establishing and maintaining partnerships with the broader Cross Country community

● Remain current on rules, best practices, and trends in coaching middle school cross country

● Proactive and open communication with the Director of Athletics on all issues

● Assistance to the Varsity program as needed

Position Requirements

● Prior coaching experience and comprehensive knowledge of Cross Country technique, coaching strategies, and middle school student-athlete development

● Demonstrated success working with diverse student populations and ability to foster inclusion, engagement, and joy in youth sports

● Excellent communication, organization, and leadership skills; able to collaborate effectively with colleagues, parents, and student-athletes

● Basic First Aid and CPR certification (or willingness to obtain before the start of the season)

● Must complete state of CA required background check

Availability: 3 days per week, approximately 4:00 - 5:30 PM, Sept. 2 until Nov. 18, some days earlier based on meet times. Coach is expected to attend preseason training, the end-of-year Sports Banquet, and team meetings

Compensation: $2300 stipend with a bonus of $500 for winning a league championship. Additional stipend opportunities are available for coaching across athletic levels/teams

About Pilgrim School

Pilgrim School, founded in 1958, is a mastery-based, college preparatory school in Koreatown with an inclusive community serving Preschool through 12th Grade.

Our Purpose

To inspire and challenge students to better themselves and the world around them.

Our Anchors

Joyful Experience | Personal Attention | Focus on Mastery

To be fully considered for this position, send a resume and cover letter to staub@pilgrim-school.org, addressing them to Sam Taub, Director of Athletics.