Assistant Coach for Coed Cross Country

Putnam Public Schools; Putnam (CT); On-site; USD 21,600 - 26,400; Full time

Job summary

Putnam High School within Putnam Public Schools is seeking an Assistant Coach for Coed Cross Country for the 2026-2027 fall season. The role supports the Head Coach in planning practices, meets, and athlete development while emphasizing safety and academic achievement.

The position requires CT Certification 600 or eligibility, First Aid/CPR, and strong communication to foster a positive, competitive environment for student-athletes.

Qualifications

• CT Certification 600 or eligibility required.
• First Aid/CPR Certification.
• Knowledge of soccer/cross country fundamentals, strategies, and rules.
• Ability to follow directions from the Head Coach and work as part of a team.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Commitment to academic excellence and holistic student development.
• Ability to pass a comprehensive background check.

Responsibilities

• Assist Head Coach with planning, organizing, and executing practices and cross country meets.
• Help conduct practices focusing on running mechanics, pacing, trail safety, and conditioning.
• Assist with meet preparation, course setup, runner timing, and competition support.
• Supervise student-athletes during team activities and travel.
• Mentor student-athletes and assist with college recruitment.
• Assist with uniform and equipment management, meet scoring, and communication with staff and parents.
• Ensure compliance with school, district, ECC, and CIAC rules.

Skills

Excellent communication

Interpersonal skills

Motivate student-athletes

Education

CT Certification 600

First Aid/CPR Certification

Job description

Assistant Coach for Coed Cross Country

Putnam High School is seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Assistant Coach for the Coed Cross Country program for the fall season in the upcoming 2026-2027 school year. We are looking for a committed coach to work under the direction of the Head Coach to foster a positive, competitive environment, teach proper training mechanics, and support our student-athletes' growth both on and off the course.

Major Duties & Responsibilities

• Support Head Coach: Assist the Head Coach with planning, organizing, and executing practices and cross country meets.
• Coaching & Instruction: Help conduct effective practices focusing on running mechanics, pacing strategies, trail safety, and physical conditioning.
• Meet Management: Assist with meet preparation, course setup, runner timing, and supporting student-athletes during competitions.
• Logistics & Supervision: Directly supervise student-athletes during all team activities including off-campus trail runs and travel ensuring a safe environment.
• Player Development: Mentor student-athletes, monitor academic progress, assist with college recruitment, and support holistic student growth.
• Administrative Tasks: Assist with uniform and equipment management, meet scoring, and maintain clear communication with the Head Coach, athletic staff, and parents.
• Compliance: Ensure adherence to all school, district, ECC, and CIAC rules and regulations.

Minimum Qualifications

• CT Certification 600: Interscholastic/Intramural Coach or eligibility for certification required
• First Aid/CPR Certification
• Demonstrated knowledge of soccer fundamentals, strategies, and rules.
• Ability to work effectively under the direction of the Head Coach.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to inspire and motivate student-athletes.
• Commitment to academic excellence and holistic student development.
• Ability to pass a comprehensive background check.

Rate of Pay

$2,179 for the 2026-2027 School Year

Application Procedure

EXTERNAL APPLICANTS: Please submit your application through our website: www.putnamschoolsct.org

INTERNAL APPLICANTS: Please submit a letter of interest to Heather Taylor, Principal and Joseph Pishka, Athletic Director

APPLICATION CLOSING DATE: Open until filled

Equal Opportunity Employer