Director of Sports and Recreation

Young Mens Christian Association • Edwardsville, IL

1d

About The Position

The Director of Sports and Recreation supports the daily operations of the YMCA’s sports and recreation programs, including youth and adult sports, outdoor recreation, climbing wall activities, skating, rentals, and other recreational offerings. The position helps ensure quality programming, effective staffing, and positive experiences for participants and families.

Under the direction of the Senior Program Director, the Director coordinates program schedules, staff and volunteer activities, equipment and facility needs, and other operational responsibilities. The Director provides hands-on leadership, supports program growth, and helps maintain a safe, organized, and welcoming environment consistent with the YMCA’s mission and standards.

The YMCA describes its culture as welcoming, genuine, hopeful, nurturing, and determined, with a focus on strengthening communities and supporting people in developing their potential.

Requirements

• Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in recreation, sports management, education, or a related field preferred, or equivalent experience.
• One to three years of experience in sports, recreation, youth programming, or a related field preferred.
• Strong organizational, communication, customer service, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple responsibilities, and collaborate effectively with department leadership and staff.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends, based on program needs.
• Complete and maintain required YMCA trainings and certifications within established timelines, including child abuse prevention, CPR, First Aid, AED, and other applicable certifications.
• Sufficient strength, agility, and mobility to perform essential functions and supervise program activities in a wide variety of indoor locations.

Nice To Haves

• Experience officiating in any capacity.
• Experience coordinating programs, scheduling activities, and providing direction to staff or volunteers.
• Knowledge of recreational sports, program safety, and youth development practices.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate daily operations of assigned sports and recreation programs, including leagues, clinics, recreational activities, and special events, ensuring programs operate safely, efficiently, and consistently with YMCA standards.
• Assist with recruiting, onboarding, training, scheduling, and supervising part-time staff, coaches, officials, and volunteers; provide ongoing guidance and support.
• Organize program schedules, team assignments, practices, games, and other activities, coordinating staffing, facility availability, and equipment needs.
• Support the development and implementation of new and existing programs, and provide feedback and recommendations based on participation, community needs, and operational experience.
• Maintain program equipment, supplies, and inventory, coordinating purchases, repairs, and facility needs with the Senior Program Director and appropriate departments.
• Ensure programs follow established safety procedures, YMCA policies, and applicable regulations; identify and promptly address or report safety concerns and operational issues.
• Provide customer service, communicate with participants and families, and assist with resolving program-related questions and concerns.
• Assist with program registrations, participant records, communications, and other administrative functions.
• Support program marketing, community outreach, special events, and YMCA fundraising initiatives as assigned.
• Monitor program participation, staffing needs, and operational effectiveness, and provide updates and recommendations to the Senior Program Director.
• Maintain an active, hands-on presence during programs, supporting staff and participants and assisting with activities as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Health insurance for eligible full-time employees.
• Generous paid time off (PTO) for eligible full-time employees.
• An 8% fully funded YMCA retirement contribution upon meeting eligibility requirements.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Education Level: Associate degree