The Donaldson Run Thunderbolts, a member of the Northern Virginia Swim League (NVSL), is seeking a dynamic and experienced Head Swim Coach with strong technical and stroke development skills for the 2026 Summer swim season. The ideal candidate will be a highly motivated leader with a passion for coaching swimmers of all ages and abilities.

Located in the picturesque Donaldson Run neighborhood of Arlington, VA, we have approximately 300 swimmers aged 5-18, including our developmental swim program (Thundersquad). We place a strong emphasis on inclusivity, community, team spirit, sportsmanship, and, of course, swimming fast. Our unique position as a neighborhood-districted pool means that we take great pride in building a competitive team from within our walkable community and we have been in NVSL Division 3 or above for a number of years.

Practices start mid- to late-May and end on the last Friday in July (after school while Arlington Public Schools are in session, and from 7.30-11.15am otherwise). Developmental (or “B”) meets are held on Monday evenings, while competitive (or “A”) meets are held on Saturday mornings, with two additional relay meets on Wednesdays. The Head Coach is expected to attend all practices, meets, and official team activities.

Performance Expectations for the Head Coach

This position requires a blend of technical expertise, leadership, and community engagement. Performance expectations are measured by more than just a win-loss record. A successful coach is expected to:

Demonstrate Strong Leadership and Management – The head coach will supervise, train, and mentor a staff of assistant coaches and junior coaches by delegating responsibilities effectively and ensuring a cohesive and well-organized coaching staff.

Develop Swimmers – The head coach will build and implement daily practice schedules and seasonal training plans for swimmers and provide constructive and individualized feedback on performance and technique during practices and meets.

Manage Competitive Operations – The head coach will prepare meet lineups, ensuring fair and strategic placement of swimmers while accurately managing meet entries and working with team representatives to ensure compliance with NVSL rules.

Foster a Positive and Inclusive Team Environment – The head coach will create a culture of good sportsmanship, teamwork, and fun for all swimmers, from the youngest novices to the most experienced senior swimmers. The focus should be on building a love for the sport and a sense of community.

Communicate Effectively – The head coach will establish open and positive communication with swimmers, parents, assistant coaches, and team representatives by responding to questions and concerns in a timely and professional manner.

Ensure Safety – The head coach will maintain a safe and organized pool environment during practices and meets and always be knowledgeable of and adhering to all safety protocols and emergency action plans.

Promote Team Spirit – The head coach will embrace our unique team spirit, which emphasizes inclusivity, fun, and good sportsmanship by actively participating in all team activities, social events, and swim meets to build morale and foster a strong sense of team identity.

Prepare in the Off-season – The head coach will work with swim team representatives on staffing decisions and other swim team planning for the following season.

Qualifications

- A minimum of 5-7 years of coaching experience with a competitive swim team; head coaching experience at an NVSL (or similar league) pool is highly preferred.
- Demonstrated experience in working with and developing swimmers of all ages and abilities.
- Extensive knowledge of USA Swimming rules and procedures, ideally some experience with NVSL (or similar league) rules.
- Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
- Current Lifeguard, CPR, and First Aid certifications (or obtained before the start of the season).

 To apply, please email resume and cover letter to drraswimteamrep@gmail.com.