Volunteer Football Coach

JOB SUMMARY 

The Recreation Youth Football Coach is responsible for leading, instructing, and mentoring youth. This role involves teaching fundamental football skills, promoting teamwork and good sportsmanship, ensuring a safe and positive environment, fostering teamwork, and respect for all participants. The coach will plan and conduct practices, manage games, and communicate effectively with players, parents, and recreation staff. This is a volunteer position ideal for individuals passionate about community engagement and developing and aspiring youth to become mindful, productive citizens. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Organize and conduct structured practices that focus on skill development, conditioning, and team strategy. 
• Set clear expectations for behavior and effort and model good sportsmanship at all times. 
• Prepare game plans, manage player rotations, and provide real-time coaching during games to ensure player engagement and team cohesion. 
• Adapt sessions to suit different age groups and skill levels. 
• Instruct players on the fundamentals of football, including passing, catching, blocking, tackling, and positioning. 
• Explain game rules and strategies in a way that is age-appropriate and easy to understand. 
• Use drills and demonstrations to reinforce learning and build confidence. 
• Build a team-first mindset by encouraging cooperation, mutual respect, and positive communication among players. 
• Maintain a safe playing environment by enforcing proper techniques, using appropriate equipment, and following all safety protocols.  
• Maintain open and respectful communication with parents regarding schedules, player progress, and team updates. 
• Collaborate with league officials to coordinate games, report scores, and address concerns. 

EXPECTATIONS 

Respect all officiating decisions-Inappropriate behavior toward referees or officials will not be tolerated under any circumstances. 

Distribute schedules -Ensure that all parents receive up-to-date practice and game schedules in a timely manner. 

Punctuality and attendance -Arrive at least 30 minutes before each practice or game and maintain an accurate attendance log for all players. 

Inclusive coaching-Provide equal opportunities for every player to participate and develop their skills, regardless of ability level. 

Follow the Park’s Code of Conduct-Adhere to all behavioral and ethical guidelines established by the recreation department. 

Report incidents -Notify facility staff or park representative of any incidents or concerns immediately following games or practices. 

Be a positive role model -Represent the team and the recreation program with professionalism, integrity, and enthusiasm at all times.

QUALIFICATIONS 

High school diploma or equivalent required 

1 year coaching experience 

Knowledge of offensive and defensive positions 

Basic knowledge of rules and regulations for the sport they coach.  

Must be detail-oriented and highly organized.  

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA  

Must be at least 21 years old. 

Must pass a criminal background check.

Must complete required Coach’s training. 

Must agree to and follow the Park’s Code of Conduct. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION 

Volunteer opportunities at Pelican Park are seasonal and may vary throughout the year based on current programs, special events, and park needs. The assignments will be matched based on your interests and the Park’s current volunteer needs. 

Volunteers will report to the division supervisor or designated coordinator overseeing the area where they are placed. Training and guidance will be provided based on the nature of the assigned duties. 

DISCLAIMER STATEMENT 

Volunteering at Pelican Park is a way to support the community and enhance the Park experience for all, but it does not constitute employment. Volunteers serve in an unpaid capacity and are not entitled to compensation or employment benefits. All volunteers are expected to represent Pelican Park in a respectful and professional manner and abide by all park rules and policies. The above is intended to describe the content and requirements of the performance of this job.  It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or requirements.  Recreation District #1 of St. Tammany reserves the right to change, add, or delete at any time from this job description to meet the need of the organization.

At Pelican Park, we firmly believe in the power of unity. When we come together, as One Team, we create a safe space where every individual and every effort matters. Whether you're a visitor or part of our Team, we all share in the overall success of this incredible park and programs. Let’s grow, connect, and thrive together—because we are all part of something bigger. 

One Park. One Team. One Vision. 

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