About this role
Application Deadline: September 10, 2026 Position Start:Fall 2026 Position Summary Grand Rapids Catholic Central is seeking an energetic, experienced, and student-centered Varsity Head Track & Field Coach to lead our boys and girls Track & Field program. This is an opportunity for a strong program builder to lead both the boys’ and girls’ teams as one unified program under a single head coach. The Head Coach will be responsible for establishing the vision, culture, standards, and competitive direction of the entire program while creating an environment where student-athletes of all ability levels can develop and succeed. The successful candidate will be an outstanding teacher and mentor who understands that high school athletics is about developing the whole student-athlete. The coach will work collaboratively with the Athletic Department, school administration, assistant coaches, student-athletes, and families to build a sustainable program that reflects the mission and values of Catholic Central. Key Responsibilities
• Lead and oversee the entire Varsity Track & Field program.
• Establish a clear program philosophy, culture, and standards for both boys and girls.
• Plan and conduct organized, purposeful practices that develop student-athletes across all track and field events.
• Develop training plans appropriate for sprinters, distance runners, hurdlers, jumpers, throwers, and multi-event athletes.
• Work with assistant coaches to provide quality instruction and development in individual events.
• Identify and develop student-athletes at all levels of experience and ability.
• Prepare student-athletes for regular-season competition, conference championships, regional competition, and the MHSAA postseason.
• Create opportunities for student-athletes to pursue individual and team excellence.
• Foster a culture of accountability, discipline, sportsmanship, teamwork, and perseverance.
• Promote participation and retention in the Track & Field program.
• Build positive relationships with student-athletes and serve as a mentor and role model.
• Communicate effectively and professionally with student-athletes, parents, coaches, school administration, and the Athletic Department.
• Organize and manage team logistics, meet preparation, lineups, entries, and competition responsibilities.
• Assist with scheduling, equipment management, uniforms, fundraising, and other program needs.
• Work collaboratively with the Athletic Department on program planning, budgeting, and long-term development.
• Support summer training, camps, clinics, and other opportunities that strengthen the program.
• Adhere to all Catholic Central, conference, MHSAA, and applicable athletic policies and regulations. Leadership Expectations The Head Track & Field Coach will be expected to:
• Lead one program: Boys and girls will operate as a unified Catholic Central Track & Field program with a consistent philosophy and culture.
• Develop people: Prioritize character, confidence, leadership, and personal growth alongside athletic development.
• Build relationships: Know student-athletes, understand their individual needs, and create a program where they feel valued and challenged.
• Develop coaches: Recruit, organize, and effectively lead assistant coaches and event specialists.
• Compete with purpose: Establish high expectations and pursue competitive excellence while maintaining perspective and sportsmanship.
• Represent Catholic Central: Model the school’s mission and values at practices, competitions, and throughout the community. Qualifications
• Previous high school, collegiate, club, or comparable Track & Field coaching experience preferred.
• Strong understanding of Track & Field training, event development, and competition.
• Demonstrated ability to lead a comprehensive co-ed program.
• Ability to recruit, organize, and develop a strong coaching staff.
• Strong communication, leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to motivate student-athletes with varying levels of experience and ability.
• Commitment to the educational and developmental mission of high school athletics.
• Ability to obtain all required MHSAA coaching certifications and clearances. Preferred Characteristics The ideal candidate will be:
• Supportive of the mission of Catholic education and the role athletics plays in forming young people.
• A passionate teacher and mentor who understands the developmental nature of high school athletics.
• An organized and detail-oriented program leader.
• A strong communicator who builds trust with student-athletes and families.
• A collaborative leader who values and develops assistant coaches.
• A program builder with a vision for long-term growth and sustainability.
• Committed to providing opportunities for both competitive athletes and students who are discovering Track & Field for the first time.
• Dedicated to creating a positive, inclusive, and competitive team culture. Compensation Stipend commensurate with experience and qualifications. Application Process Interested candidates should submit a letter of interest, resume, and references to Mike Jacob, Athletic Director at Catholic Central High School – [email protected]