Job Summary:
The Head Cheer Coach is responsible for providing ethical leadership in managing all aspects of the Cheer program, including, but not limited to, fostering a positive team environment, recruitment and retention of academically and athletically qualified student-athletes, and preparing student-athletes for success through planning, strategy development, and skill instruction. Prepare the team to perform at all home football games and home men’s & women’s basketball games during normal university sessions (not during any breaks and/or vacation periods).
Essential Functions:
- Promote Franciscan ideals and adherence to the Mission of the University as demonstrated by the University Ideal Characteristics. As we are an equal opportunity employer committed to Franciscan values, all employees share responsibility for advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the performance of their roles while demonstrating: service orientation, respect for all, intellectual curiosity, solution focus, innovation, and mutual accountability.
- Maintain all appropriate trainings and certifications to ensure safe and compliant practice and competition sessions. Preferred completion of the American Association of Cheerleading Coaches and Administrators (AACCA) safety course.
- Work with Admissions Office to identify, recruit, and retain academically and athletically qualified student-athletes in accordance with all university admissions standards and procedures; meet or exceed annual established recruiting goals.
- Ensure commitment to the academic success of the student-athletes, including monitoring academic progress and attendance, and involving appropriate academic support resources when necessary.
- Foster a positive environment where student-athletes can learn, grow, and reach their potential; serve as a mentor, advisor, positive role model, and exemplar of good character and integrity; monitor discipline and conduct of student-athletes to foster personal growth and ensure adherence to community standards and appropriate codes of conduct/expectations.
Additional Responsibilities:
- Maintain appropriate records and paperwork and ensure program (head coach, assistant coaches, student-athletes, etc.) compliance with all university, Middle Atlantic Conference (MAC), and NCAA policies (where applicable), rules, and regulations. Keep accurate and detailed records of all financial transactions, including fundraising money collected from student-athletes and/or their families.
- Select, schedule, and train the mascot for appearances at games, the university, and community events.
- Foster a positive team environment with regular meetings with student-athletes, assistant coaches, and appropriate administrators.
- Work with the Coordinator of Equipment & Operations and the Director of Athletics for budget/purchasing planning to ensure a balanced budget annually.
Qualifications/Education:
- Commitment to the mission statement, core values, and goals of Alvernia University.
- A bachelor’s degree and successful experience as a student-athlete and/or coach are required. A master’s degree and college head coaching experience are preferred.
- A demonstrated ability to effectively communicate with student-athletes, coaches, athletic trainers, and athletic administration. Commitment to being a good colleague and team player.
- Demonstrated problem-solving, strong leadership, communication, organizational, and team-building skills/capabilities; ability to handle and prioritize multiple tasks/projects in a fast-paced environment.
- Commitment to fostering a positive student-athlete experience where the safety, health, and well-being of student-athletes is paramount.
Physical Requirements:
- Attendance is required to perform the duties of this job.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.
- Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
- Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times.
- Frequent travel is required.