Head Coach Position – South Run Seahawks Swim Team (2025 Summer Season)

The South Run Seahawks (SOR), in Fairfax Station, are seeking an energetic, experienced, and motivational Head Coach for the 2025 NVSL summer season. Our team, comprised of approximately 160 swimmers aged 4-18, values a positive, fun, and inclusive environment focused on personal and team growth. We are looking for a coach who can lead our swimmers to excel in both competition and sportsmanship while maintaining a strong sense of community and enjoyment.

Position Summary:

The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of coaching swimmers across various age groups and skill levels, from young beginners to advanced competitors. The Head Coach should be an organized leader with excellent communication skills and a commitment to creating an engaging and supportive atmosphere for all team members.

Key Responsibilities:

Coaching and Practice Management:

• Design and implement age- and skill-level-appropriate practice plans focusing on stroke development, starts, turns, and race strategies.
• Lead all swim practices and meets, providing individualized feedback and encouragement to swimmers.
• Prepare competitive meet line-ups for Saturday 'A' meets, Divisional Relays, and Divisionals, ensuring strategic placement of swimmers based on the ladder and availability.
• Oversee Monday developmental meets by coordinating with coaching staff and volunteers.
• Maintain a safe environment at all practices and meets, adhering to all safety and health guidelines set by local authorities, NVSL, and the South Run Board of Trustees.

Staff Management:

• Supervise, mentor, and manage a team of assistant, lane and junior coaches, setting clear expectations and responsibilities.
• Schedule and coordinate coaching staff for practices, meets, and team events.
• Provide regular feedback, professional development opportunities, and support to coaching staff, fostering a collaborative and positive work environment.

Team Management and Culture:

• Foster a culture of strong sportsmanship, inclusion, and teamwork
• Select and recognize swimmers for weekly and end-of-season awards who exemplify team values such as respect, positivity, enthusiasm, and leadership.
• Actively participate in all team activities, including Saturday and Monday meets, pep rallies, and the end of season party, promoting a positive team spirit.
• Work closely with the Swim Team Reps and pool board on season planning, staffing, and communication strategies.

Communication:

• Communicate regularly with swimmers on development, team expectations, and upcoming events.
• Respond promptly to inquiries from parents and swimmers.
• Serve as the team’s primary cheerleader and advocate.
• The South Run Team Reps make every effort to handle most parent communication so the Head Coach can focus on the swimmers.

Qualifications:

• 5+ years of swim coaching experience, with at least 1 year in a head or assistant head coaching role within NVSL (head coaching experience preferred).
• Experience coaching swimmers of all ages and abilities, with a focus on technique and stroke development.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Pool Operator Certified or the ability to become certified prior to season start.
• Lifeguard certification and CPR for professional rescue preferred.
• Extensive knowledge of NVSL rules and meet procedures.

Salary and Bonus:

• Competitive base salary with a variable end-of-season bonus.

How to Apply: To apply, please email your cover letter and resume to teamrep@southrunswim.com. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. We look forward to welcoming a new Head Coach who will lead the South Run Seahawks to a successful and fun 2025 season!