Head Athletic Coach HUHS / Middle School

Harwood Unified Union School District is seeking a motivated and skilled Head Athletic Coach to lead one of our varsity, junior varsity, freshman, or middle school sports programs. The Head Coach is responsible for developing student-athletes' skills, fostering sportsmanship, teamwork, discipline, leadership, and a commitment to academics. This role includes supervising assistant coaches and volunteers, managing practices and games, coordinating logistics, and ensuring compliance with district, VPA, and state policies.

The Head Coach is a key leader in the HUUSD athletics program, helping students grow both on and off the field while promoting a safe, inclusive, and positive team environment.

Key Responsibilities

Coaching & Student Development

• Provide instruction to athletes in sport-specific skills and strategies
• Promote discipline, sportsmanship, and team values; establish and enforce appropriate consequences for rule violations
• Develop and maintain written practice plans for each session
• Foster student self-esteem, leadership, and responsibility
• Maintain a team environment free from hazing and harassment
• Hold tryouts and communicate final roster decisions in alignment with district policies
• Communicate with parents regarding team rules, schedules, and expectations

Team & Program Management

• Supervise all athletes during practices, games, and team travel
• Inventory, distribute, and maintain uniforms and equipment
• Maintain criteria for letters and other awards; track eligibility and distribute awards
• Collaborate with Athletic Director on scheduling contests, transportation, and event logistics
• Ensure facilities and practice areas are safe and properly prepared

Compliance & Policies

• Maintain familiarity with and enforce all HUUSD policies, Coaches' Guide, VPA rules, and relevant state/federal regulations
• Complete required VPA certifications, including ASEP, Sports First Aid, and Coaching Principles
• Maintain confidentiality of student records in accordance with FERPA and HUUSD policy

Supervision & Collaboration

• Train, plan, assign, and evaluate work of assistant, JV, freshman, and middle school coaches
• Supervise volunteers and ensure adherence to professional standards
• Work closely with the Athletic Director and school administration to plan, coordinate, and execute athletic programs

Supervision

• Reports directly to the Athletic Director or Administrator in charge of athletics
• Responsible for the direct supervision and welfare of all athletes on the team

Qualifications

Required

• At least 18 years of age or a high school graduate at the start of the sport season
• Minimum of two years of varsity-level playing experience or equivalent combination of training and experience
• Certification and training in accordance with VPA requirements (ASEP, Sports First Aid, Coaching Principles)
• Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to maintain professionalism in stressful situations and handle conflict constructively
• Word processing experience required; familiarity with databases preferred

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, climb, stoop, kneel, and participate in demonstrating the sport
• Occasionally lift/move up to 150 lbs. with assistance
• Work in varying weather conditions; noise levels moderate to loud

At HUUSD, we are committed to providing student-athletes with meaningful opportunities to develop physical, social, and academic skills. Our coaches are valued leaders in the school community, shaping the growth and character of every athlete they mentor.