Middle School Athletic Coach - Multiple Sports

Bennett Day School is seeking dynamic and dedicated coaches for the upcoming season. In this pivotal role, coaches will guide student-athletes and the team in mastering the fundamentals, rules, physical conditioning, and game strategies essential to excel in their chosen sport.

Coaches are also responsible for cultivating strong character, sportsmanship, and teamwork among the student-athletes and the team. By working closely with student-athletes, coaches will not only foster a deep appreciation for the sport but also shape positive habits and attitudes that extend beyond athletics, encouraging lifelong personal growth and achievement.

THE ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Student-Athlete Development: Foster the physical, social, and emotional growth of student-athletes by creating a positive, inclusive, and supportive team environment that emphasizes sportsmanship, leadership, and personal responsibility.
• Practice & Game Management: Plan and lead engaging, age-appropriate practices that develop individual skills, team concepts, and a strong understanding of the sport. Coach and supervise student-athletes during practices, competitions, and team events.
• Communication & Family Engagement: Maintain consistent and professional communication with student-athletes, families, and the Athletics Department regarding schedules, expectations, team updates, and student progress.
• Program Administration: Assist with team logistics, including attendance, equipment management, uniforms, transportation, and ensuring all required student-athlete compliance documentation is complete and current.
• Student Supervision & Safety: Provide active supervision during practices, competitions, travel, and all other team activities. Promote a safe environment by following school policies, league policies, the Illinois Elementary School Association (IESA), and appropriate emergency procedures.
• Collaboration & School Engagement: Work collaboratively with the Athletics Department, faculty, staff, and fellow coaches to support the school's mission and enhance the overall student experience.
• Professionalism & Leadership: Serve as a positive role model by demonstrating integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to the school's values. Uphold league, IESA, conference, and school expectations while encouraging respect, accountability, and teamwork.
• Additional Responsibilities: Participate in all scheduled coaches’ meetings, professional development opportunities, and other duties as assigned by the school and/or the Director of Athletics and Co-Curriculars.

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS

• Education: Bachelor’s degree or progress toward a bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Experience: Previous coaching experience at the Middle School, Upper School, high school, collegiate, or youth level is strongly preferred. Playing experience in the sport is also valued.
• Sport Knowledge: Comprehensive knowledge of the sport is required, with competitive playing experience preferred.
• Rules & Compliance: Experience with and familiarity with Illinois Elementary School Association (IESA) and Illinois High School Association (IHSA) rules and regulations, along with a commitment to positive youth sports and student-athlete development, is preferred.
• Certifications: Current CPR/AED certification is strongly preferred.
• Coaching Credentials: Current Illinois State Board of Education coaching approval or certification, or completion of an American Sport Education Program or National Federation of State High School Associations coaching education program, is preferred.
• Student-Centered Approach: Demonstrated ability to build positive relationships with adolescents while fostering confidence, resilience, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to effectively engage students, families, colleagues, and administrators.
• Organization & Time Management: Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage practices, competitions, scheduling, and multiple responsibilities simultaneously.
• Technical Proficiency: Comfortable using Google Workspace, email, and school-based communication and scheduling platforms.
• Leadership & Problem Solving: Ability to remain composed under pressure, make sound decisions during practices and competitions, and adapt to changing situations.
• Commitment to Equity & Inclusion: Demonstrated commitment to creating an inclusive environment where all student-athletes feel valued, supported, and challenged.
• Background Check: Must successfully complete a criminal background check and any other required pre-employment screenings.