Head Coach of Riding/Assistant Professor of Physical Education

Washington & Lee University; Lexington (VA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Washington and Lee University seeks an Assistant Professor of Physical Education and Head Coach of Riding. This full-time role involves managing the equestrian program, coaching riders, and ensuring the welfare of horses. Candidates must have coaching experience and a commitment to education.

Qualifications

• 5 years of college equestrian coaching or equivalent experience required.
• Teaching beginner to advanced riders in the American hunter and jumper system.

Responsibilities

• Organize and administer the equestrian program including recruitment and training.
• Supervise and evaluate the assistant coach and manage team budgets.

Skills

Coaching

Communication

Team Management

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Master's Degree

Job description

Washington and Lee University invites applications for the position of Assistant Professor of Physical Education and Head Coach of Riding. Founded in 1749, Washington and Lee is a highly selective, residential, co-educational, liberal arts university of 1857 students located in the beautiful Valley of Virginia. The University is a member of the Old Dominion Athletic Conference and NCAA Division III, sponsoring 24 varsity sports.

This is a full-time, 12-month, non-tenure track faculty position reporting to the Director of Athletics. Responsibilities include organizing, developing and administering all phases of the equestrian program, including: recruitment of academically and athletically qualified student-athletes; supervising and evaluating the assistant coach; preparing, administering and monitoring team budgets and related gift accounts and horse donations; purchasing and supervising maintenance of program equipment and maintaining inventory; student-athlete training and skill development in team practices/individual workouts in preparation for success in NCEA and IHSA competitions; establishing a competitive schedule and coordinating team travel for away competitions; establishing and enforcing team expectations and rules of conduct as well as mentoring student-athletes to foster athletic, academic, emotional, and social growth; communicate with alumni and friends of the program. The successful candidate will also teach in our required Physical Education program.

The Head Coach is responsible for supervising and coaching at home and away events; teaching beginner through advanced-level riders in the American hunter and jumper system; ride and re-school horses as needed; transport horses and students to shows; and support staff and riders in creating a positive team and barn culture committed to student success.

Candidates must be committed to a philosophy of being an educator, maintaining a successful, respected program, and exhibit a strong commitment toward compliance with policies and guidelines of the university, ODAC, and NCAA. Emphasis on academic priorities for student-athletes as well as the importance of good citizenship both in and out of the arena will also be considered. Additional equine responsibilities include ensuring the wellbeing and care of horses within the program, ensuring proper veterinary and farrier care, injury rehabilitation, support regular barn management and chores, and experience driving a rig and six-horse trailer.

To achieve our mission as a liberal arts college, we strive to foster a welcoming campus community, which recognizes the value of all persons. Our department is committed to preparing our students for engaged citizenship by creating a positive learning and working environment for all through open and substantive dialogue. We welcome applications from candidates that would contribute to the University’s mission and Strategic Plan.

A bachelor’s degree and five years of college equestrian coaching or equivalent combination of education and experience is required. A master’s degree and collegiate riding experience is preferred. The salary will be commensurate with the education and experience of the successful candidate.

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled, but to be assured of consideration, credentials should be received no later than May 23, 2025.

Candidates should submit:

• Cover letter addressed to the W&L Riding search committee
• Resume
• Contact information for three professional references

All materials should be submitted through Interfolio at: https://apply.interfolio.com/167178

Applications will only be accepted via the online application process.