Club Sports Ice Hockey Head Coach ACHA D1

Sacred Heart University•Fairfield, CT

About The Position

The Head Coach for the Club Sports Ice Hockey ACHA Division I team provides leadership through player recruitment and retention, practice and game-day coaching, and the management of team administrative functions. This is a part-time position that runs from August 15th to May 15th of each academic year.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required; Bachelor’s degree preferred
A minimum of 2 years of collegiate coaching experience or 5 years of coaching experience at the youth, high school, prep, or junior level is required. A combination of experience will be considered
USA Hockey Coaching Level 2 Certification required
Minimum of 5 years of playing experience
Must be available to work nights and weekends, as the vast majority of games are Friday-Sunday
Demonstrate strong leadership, communication, and organizational abilities
Ability to work effectively with diverse populations, including staff and college-age students
Demonstrate professionalism in all interactions and uphold the mission of the University

Responsibilities

Responsible for the recruitment of prospective students who will meet University admission standards
Responsible for all ACHA required paperwork as well as understanding all rules associated with the ACHA
Foster and enhance relationships with other ACHA DI coaches
Work collaboratively with other men’s Club Sports ice hockey programs
Work closely with the Director of Club Sports and Intramurals, or designee, on the preparation of the season, schedule, and develop a recruitment plan beyond the upcoming season
Work with the Athletic Training staff and Strength and Conditioning staff on player safety and development
Responsible for the retention of all team members, particularly first year students and ensuring their seamless transition into college
Work with the Club Sports staff to develop a cohesive program and highlight those via social media and the club sports website
Create and implement a weekly practice plan to ensure all team members are prepared for competition
Recruit and evaluate prospective student-athletes through showcases, junior leagues, and video scouting
Build relationships with junior, prep, and high school coaches
Manage roster construction and balance talent, depth, and team chemistry
Promote program visibility and competitiveness within the ACHA DI landscape
Develop and implement structured practice plans emphasizing skill progression, systems play, and hockey IQ
Provide individualized player development plans focusing on skating, shooting, positioning, and decision-making
Mentor student-athletes on leadership, accountability, and competitive mindset
Prepare players for higher levels of competition, including junior, professional, or international opportunities
Oversee all game day responsibilities, including game planning, transportation, and game roster
Manage coaching staff and student manager staff
Other duties as assigned or required