Middle School Squash Coordinator (Coach)

Overview

MetroSquash was founded in 2005 as an out-of-school time program for Chicago Public School students. The first MetroSquash class consisted of 10 students in fifth grade, and utilized squash courts and classroom space at the University of Chicago. Each year, a grade level was added to realize a pathway of service from 5th grade through post-secondary completion. In 2015, the organization successfully raised over $8M to construct a permanent home – the Hussain MetroSquash Center in Woodlawn.

MetroSquash now has 20 full time staff serving over 400 students and their families each year. In 2018, MetroSquash opened its first satellite location in Evanston to serve students just north of Chicago. MetroSquash Evanston currently serves 40 6th-8th graders and utilizes academic and court space at the McGaw YMCA. The program is now exploring plans to expand to the West Side of Chicago.

The Middle School Squash Coordinator reports to the Manager of Squash and Fitness. The position is ideal for a candidate who loves squash and has a passion for coaching students to reach their potential both on and off the court. This is an exciting opportunity to help build MetroSquash into a national leader in program quality and excellence in squash and fitness.

Key Responsibilities​:

• Develop, manage and lead on the delivery of an effective performance squash coaching programme enabling students to develop to the best of their abilities. This is to include both group and individual technical and tactical coaching, 1 to 1/small group feedback sessions.
• Design and deliver an effective squash and games programme, designed to meet students where they are at and support them in learning about fitness and the holistic benefits of sport. Intentionally provide fun and engaging sessions to all students in squash and games so that they have a meaningful break in their day.
• Plan all sessions in advance with specific student development needs in mind and communicate these plans to assistant coaches, volunteers and department leads.
• Assist in the coordination and planning of student participation in junior tournaments, Squash and Education Alliance (SEA) squash events, and external summer squash camps. Deliver high level squash coaching to students at tournaments.
• Continue to develop your own squash standard, understanding of the game and coaching knowledge through on court practice and professional development.
• Collaborate with the Academic and Enrichment Department to foster a fully integrated approach to academic, athletic and wellness development for each middle school student.
• Work with the Academic Coordinator to help recruit and retain a minimum 20 students per grade, 5th grade through 8th grade, attending outreach events throughout the year aimed at engaging prospective students.
• Track high school squash testing, tournament participation, attendance and all other relevant program metrics.
• Help supervise squash volunteers, Up2Us coaches, and student workers during after-school programming.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Qualities: ​

Candidates should possess the following: Bachelor's Degree, Level 2 US Squash Coaching Award, achieve a squash rating of a 5.0 or higher at some point in their squash career; demonstrated ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment; strong communication and problem-solving skills; comfort with data tracking and goal-setting; strong interpersonal skills with a willingness and desire to engage with diverse stakeholders. Valid driver’s license and ability to drive a 12-15 passenger van a must.

We recognize that valuable skills and experiences come in many forms, so we encourage all passionate and qualified individuals to apply.

Hours: General hours are Monday through Friday 11:30am-7:30pm, though adjustments are necessary due to the organization’s response to COVID-19. The position entails weekend work – particularly on Saturdays during the school year, and travel for tournaments and college tours during the school year.

Vacation & Benefits: 15 days vacation and 5 sick days the first year, 20 days vacation in the second year, and 25 each subsequent year. Full health coverage, including dental.

Other: Must be eligible to work in the United States