Junior High Assistant Coach

The Junior High Assistant Coach supports the Head Coach in planning, organizing, and executing practices and competitions across one or more sports offered through the junior high athletic program. This role is ideal for individuals who are passionate about youth development, enjoy working with middle school-aged athletes, and are eager to contribute to a well-rounded athletic program. The assistant coach may serve across multiple sports and seasons throughout the school year.

Sports Offered May Include

• Football (Fall)
• Volleyball (Fall)
• Cross Country (Fall)
• Basketball (Winter)
• Wrestling (Winter)
• Track & Field (Spring)
• Baseball / Softball (Spring)
• Soccer (Spring)
• Golf (Fall/Spring)
• Other sports as available and assigned

Key Responsibilities

Coaching & Practice Support

• Assist the Head Coach in planning and conducting organized, safe, and productive practices
• Teach sport-specific fundamentals, rules, and strategies appropriate for junior high athletes
• Lead position groups, station drills, or skill segments as directed by the Head Coach
• Provide encouragement, constructive feedback, and individualized instruction to athletes
• Help manage practice flow, time, and transitions efficiently

Game-Day Responsibilities

• Assist with pre-game warm-ups and preparation routines
• Provide sideline/bench coaching support during competitions
• Help manage athlete substitutions, assignments, and positioning as directed
• Represent the program with professionalism in all competitive settings

Player Development & Mentorship

• Foster a positive, supportive environment that builds confidence in young athletes
• Emphasize age-appropriate fundamentals and long-term athletic development over winning
• Encourage student-athletes to develop discipline, effort, coachability, and respect
• Monitor athlete well-being and report any concerns to the Head Coach or Athletic Director
• Support players' academic success and overall school engagement

Safety & Supervision

• Ensure the safety of all athletes during practices, competitions, and travel
• Assist in monitoring locker rooms, transportation, and athletic facilities as assigned
• Administer basic first aid when necessary and report injuries promptly per school policy
• Enforce school and district rules, codes of conduct, and athletic eligibility requirements

Program & Administrative Support

• Assist with equipment setup, inventory, and storage for each sport
• Help maintain a clean and organized practice and game environment
• Attend required staff meetings, parent nights, and school athletic events
• Communicate professionally with parents, school staff, and officials
• Comply with all school district athletic policies and state governing association rules (e.g., IHSA, UIL, MSHSAA, MHSAA, etc.)

Qualifications

Required

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Genuine interest in working with junior high-aged youth (grades 6–8)
• Basic knowledge of one or more sports offered in the program
• Strong communication, patience, and interpersonal skills
• Positive, team-oriented attitude and professional demeanor
• Ability to pass a background check
• Valid driver's license

Preferred

• Bachelor's degree 
• Teachers Certification in Science
• Prior coaching, teaching, or youth mentorship experience
• Playing experience in one or more of the offered sports
• First Aid / CPR certification (or willingness to obtain prior to start)
• Familiarity with middle school athletic development principles
• Experience working in a school or educational setting

Key Competencies

• Youth Development Focus — Understands the social, emotional, and physical needs of middle school athletes
• Adaptability — Comfortable assisting across multiple sports and adjusting to different Head Coaches' systems
• Communication — Able to deliver clear, age-appropriate instruction and maintain professional relationships
• Dependability — Punctual, prepared, and committed for the full duration of each sport season
• Sportsmanship — Models and enforces respectful behavior toward opponents, officials, and teammates