Lead Middle School Cross Country Coach

Erie's Public Schools; Erie (Erie County); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Erie's Public Schools is seeking a 12-month Head Coach for Middle School Cross Country to lead and mentor student-athletes, promote academic excellence, and foster a positive culture. The role requires collaboration with district leadership, parents, and community partners.

You will oversee practices, develop weekly plans, monitor student progress, and ensure adherence to PIAA rules and PDE coaching requirements.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of cross country training principles, running mechanics, conditioning, and athlete development.
• Ability to mentor middle school student-athletes and promote skill development, fitness, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
• Understanding of age-appropriate training and injury prevention strategies.
• Develop and implement weekly practice plans and communicate them to senior coaches.
• Support student-athletes transitioning to the Erie High School Cross Country program.
• Must hold or obtain FBI, Criminal History, and Child Abuse Clearances.
• Work with Erie School District policies and structure; strong interpersonal skills.
• Complete all Coaching Education requirements of the PIAA; know NFHS rules.

Responsibilities

• Monitor grades and conduct of student-athletes.
• Attend practices, meets, and team functions; create weekly practice plans.
• Lead practices at least three days per week focusing on skill development and conditioning.
• Manage transportation schedules for away meets, if applicable.
• Instruct athletes on cross country rules, equipment, and techniques.
• Assess athlete progress and report to Head Varsity Coach.
• Engage in parent nights, banquets, awards, and team activities.
• Host a parent meeting before the first competition.
• Maintain positive communication with athletes, families, community, and district administration.
• Inventory uniforms and equipment.

Skills

Cross country training principles

Running mechanics

Conditioning

Athlete development

Mentoring middle school athletes

Age-appropriate training

Injury prevention

Practice plan development

Transition programs to high school

Clearance compliance (PIAA, PDE)

Interpersonal & communication skills

Tools

PIAA rules knowledge

NFHS rules knowledge

Job description

Erie's Public Schools is seeking a 12-month Head Coach for Middle School Cross Country to lead and mentor student-athletes, promote academic excellence, and foster a positive culture. The role requires collaboration with district leadership, parents, and community partners.

You will oversee practices, develop weekly plans, monitor student progress, and ensure adherence to PIAA rules and PDE coaching requirements.