Head Youth Coach

Head Youth Coach

Onsight Rock Gym seeks a dynamic, reliable, self-motivated, personable, and optimistic individual with a passion for climbing to join our team as a head coach for our established competitive youth climbing team with multiple nationally-ranked young athletes. This role involves cultivating the skills and enthusiasm of young climbers at Knoxville’s largest indoor rock climbing facility. We are dedicated to nurturing a team of committed professionals who derive genuine fulfillment from their work.

If you are psyched to join our team, please send your cover letter, resume, and references to: jobs@onsightrockgym.com

Scheduling:

• Full time position (40 hours a week coaching + setting)
• The climbing team will meet for practice four times a week in the afternoon/evenings.
• You will also be traveling with the climbing team for competitions and other team events.

Your Roles: (Include but are not limited to)

• Lead practices for Onsight’s competitive youth climbing team
• Travel with the team on away trips and competitions
• Develop a curriculum for the season that includes skill development, physical conditioning, strength training, mental training, competition preparation, goal setting, and more.
• Create a variety of competition style skills stations and problems to challenge the athletes on a regular basis
• Maintain a positive energy and ensure climbing team members are engaged, motivated, and following the curriculum
• Maintain an open line of communication with each team member’s parent(s)
• General team management and planning

Qualities of an Ideal Candidate:

• Experience: Prior experience as a climber and ideally as a coach is crucial. This ensures the coach understands the technical aspects of climbing and how to effectively teach them.
• Communication Skills: Clear and effective communication is key when working with young athletes. The ability to explain techniques and strategies in a way that is easy to understand is essential.
• Patience: Working with youth requires patience. Coaches must be willing to work through challenges and setbacks with their athletes, providing support and encouragement along the way.
• Adaptability: Each young athlete is different and will require a unique approach. A good coach can adapt their coaching style to meet the needs of each individual climber.
• Safety Consciousness: Safety should always be the top priority, especially when working with young climbers. Coaches must be knowledgeable about proper safety procedures and be diligent in enforcing them.
• Motivational Skills: Inspiring young athletes to reach their full potential requires strong motivational skills. Coaches should be able to encourage and push their climbers to achieve their goals.
• Leadership Abilities: As a coach, you will be a role model and leader for your athletes. Strong leadership skills are necessary to guide and mentor them effectively.
• Organizational Skills: Managing a youth climbing program requires organization and attention to detail. Coaches should be able to plan and coordinate practices, competitions, and other events efficiently.
• Positive Attitude: Maintaining a positive attitude, even in the face of challenges, is essential for keeping athletes motivated and engaged.
• Continuous Learning: The climbing world is always evolving, with new techniques and strategies emerging. A good coach should be committed to continuous learning and staying up-to-date with the latest developments in the sport.
• Empathy and Understanding: Understanding the unique challenges and pressures that young athletes face is important for building trust and rapport. Coaches should be empathetic and supportive of their athletes both on and off the wall.

Compensation/Perks

• Pay to be determined based on experience, skills, and credentials.
• Free climbing gym membership and pro-deal discounts with select brands.
• Opportunity to live in one of the best areas of the country for access to world-class outdoor climbing including the Red River Gorge, Stone Fort, Horse Pens 40, New River Gorge, The Obed, and countless more!