About this role
Head Athletic Coach – HUHS / Middle School FLSA Status: Exempt To learn more about Harwood Unified Union School District and our schools, visit https://huusd.org/our-schools Position Overview Harwood Unified Union School District is seeking a motivated and skilled Head Athletic Coach to lead one of our varsity, junior varsity, freshman, or middle school sports programs. The Head Coach is responsible for developing student-athletes’ skills, fostering sportsmanship, teamwork, discipline, leadership, and a commitment to academics. This role includes supervising assistant coaches and volunteers, managing practices and games, coordinating logistics, and ensuring compliance with district, VPA, and state policies. The Head Coach is a key leader in the HUUSD athletics program, helping students grow both on and off the field while promoting a safe, inclusive, and positive team environment. Key Responsibilities Coaching & Student Development
• Provide instruction to athletes in sport-specific skills and strategies
• Promote discipline, sportsmanship, and team values; establish and enforce appropriate consequences for rule violations
• Develop and maintain written practice plans for each session
• Foster student self-esteem, leadership, and responsibility
• Maintain a team environment free from hazing and harassment
• Hold tryouts and communicate final roster decisions in alignment with district policies
• Communicate with parents regarding team rules, schedules, and expectations
Team & Program Management
• Supervise all athletes during practices, games, and team travel
• Inventory, distribute, and maintain uniforms and equipment
• Maintain criteria for letters and other awards; track eligibility and distribute awards
• Collaborate with Athletic Director on scheduling contests, transportation, and event logistics
• Ensure facilities and practice areas are safe and properly prepared
Compliance & Policies
• Maintain familiarity with and enforce all HUUSD policies, Coaches’ Guide, VPA rules, and relevant state/federal regulations
• Complete required VPA certifications, including ASEP, Sports First Aid, and Coaching Principles
• Maintain confidentiality of student records in accordance with FERPA and HUUSD policy
Supervision & Collaboration
• Train, plan, assign, and evaluate work of assistant, JV, freshman, and middle school coaches
• Supervise volunteers and ensure adherence to professional standards
• Work closely with the Athletic Director and school administration to plan, coordinate, and execute athletic programs
Supervision
• Reports directly to the Athletic Director or Administrator in charge of athletics
• Responsible for the direct supervision and welfare of all athletes on the team
Qualifications Required
• At least 18 years of age or a high school graduate at the start of the sport season
• Minimum of two years of varsity-level playing experience or equivalent combination of training and experience
• Certification and training in accordance with VPA requirements (ASEP, Sports First Aid, Coaching Principles)
• Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to maintain professionalism in stressful situations and handle conflict constructively
• Word processing experience required; familiarity with databases preferred
Physical Requirements
• Ability to stand, walk, climb, stoop, kneel, and participate in demonstrating the sport
• Occasionally lift/move up to 150 lbs. with assistance
• Work in varying weather conditions; noise levels moderate to loud
Why HUUSD Athletics? At HUUSD, we are committed to providing student-athletes with meaningful opportunities to develop physical, social, and academic skills. Our coaches are valued leaders in the school community, shaping the growth and character of every athlete they mentor. ns.