This position supports the mission and work of the Y, a leading nonprofit, charitable organization. The Swim Team Assistant Coach helps deliver a safe, positive, and developmentally appropriate competitive swim experience. Under the direction of the Head Swim Coach, the Assistant Coach supports practice planning and on-deck instruction; reinforces stroke technique, conditioning, teamwork, and sportsmanship; and helps prepare swimmers for meets while ensuring a culture of belonging and well-being for all participants.
Essential Functions:
- Models and teaches YMCA core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility to participants, families, and staff
- Assists the Head Swim Coach with practice execution, including instruction, lane organization, skill progressions, and modifications for varying ability levels
- Reinforces proper stroke technique, starts/turns, endurance, and training habits while promoting confidence, effort, and team culture
- Supports implementation of practice plans and contributes ideas aligned with season goals and swimmer development
- Assists with meet preparation and operations, including lineups, warm-ups, supervision, volunteer support, and communication
- Maintains active supervision and physical presence at all times, ensuring awareness of surroundings and participant safety
- Adheres to all aquatics procedures and YMCA/Association policies, including safety, emergency response, reporting, and documentation
- Builds positive relationships with swimmers and families through professional and encouraging communication
- Enforces YMCA rules and regulations, including child abuse prevention and mandatory reporting requirements
- Attends required meetings, trainings, and certifications, and completes assigned administrative tasks
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Minimum one (1) year of experience coaching competitive swimming (or equivalent experience as determined by supervisor)
- Strong knowledge of stroke mechanics, training principles, and age-appropriate coaching techniques, with the ability to lead and motivate swimmers
- Current CPR/AED/First Aid certification (or ability to obtain within the required timeframe set by the Association)
- Completion of Safety Training for Swim Coaches within the first 30 days of employment and Safe Sport Act training within the first 90 days (or as required)
- Lifeguarding and/or additional coaching certifications (e.g., YMCA/ASCA/USA Swimming) preferred or as required by the program/Association
- Excellent planning, organization, and communication skills, with dependable attendance and availability for evenings, weekends, and occasional meet travel
