Director of Cross Country and Track & Field | Young Harris College

Young Harris, Georgia, Young Harris College invites applications for the position of Director of Cross Country and Track and Field. The Director will provide comprehensive leadership for the College’s cross country and track and field programs, overseeing all aspects of coaching, recruiting, student-athlete development, team administration, and program advancement. Competing in Conference Carolinas and NCAA Division II, Young Harris College is committed to providing a holistic student-athlete experience that supports academic achievement, personal growth, athletic excellence, and meaningful engagement with the campus and broader community. The successful candidate will be an effective coach and mentor who builds a positive, inclusive, and competitive team culture while ensuring compliance with all College, Conference Carolinas, and NCAA Division II policies, rules, and regulations. The Director will also contribute to community outreach and fundraising initiatives and collaborate with colleagues across campus to advance the mission and visibility of the program. Primary Responsibilities Lead all aspects of the cross country and track and field programs, including practice planning, competition preparation, coaching, and student-athlete development. Recruit, evaluate, and retain qualified student-athletes who align with the academic and athletic mission of Young Harris College. Develop individualized training and development plans that support student-athletes’ athletic growth and competitive success. Foster a positive, disciplined, and team-oriented culture built on accountability, respect, sportsmanship, and personal development. Promote high academic achievement by establishing appropriate academic expectations and supporting student-athletes through study halls, academic meetings, and other resources. Coordinate team logistics, scheduling, travel, competition preparation, equipment, and other administrative responsibilities. Conduct and coordinate scouting, film review, performance analysis, and other preparation necessary for successful competition. Maintain effective communication and professional relationships with student-athletes, coaches, administrators, faculty, staff, alumni, and community partners. Support community outreach, fundraising, alumni engagement, and other initiatives that promote and strengthen the program. Ensure the program operates in full compliance with Young Harris College, Conference Carolinas, and NCAA Division II rules and regulations. Perform other duties as assigned in support of the College and the Department of Athletics. The successful candidate will demonstrate the ability to: Build strong, professional relationships with student-athletes, coaches, administrators, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members. Communicate effectively with student-athletes and members of the coaching and administrative staffs. Lead a team in a manner that promotes accountability, collaboration, discipline, sportsmanship, and a positive student-athlete experience. Manage multiple priorities and administrative responsibilities while maintaining attention to detail. Recruit and retain student-athletes who contribute to the academic and competitive goals of the program. Work collaboratively across campus and represent Young Harris College positively within the community. Adapt to changing priorities and the demands of a collegiate athletics environment. Bachelor’s degree required. Collegiate coaching or competitive collegiate playing experience required. Demonstrated ability to recruit, mentor, develop, and motivate student-athletes. Strong interpersonal, organizational, communication, and leadership skills. Commitment to the academic, athletic, and personal development of student-athletes. Demonstrated commitment to NCAA Division II rules and regulations and the values of Young Harris College. Ability and willingness to work a flexible schedule, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and travel as required.