Head Swim Coach

Whatcom Family YMCA•Bellingham, WA

7d•$22 - $27•Onsite

About The Position

The Whatcom Family YMCA is looking for an enthusiastic and experienced Head Swim Coach to lead our YMCA Swim Team! This is an opportunity to develop swimmers at all levels, mentor fellow coaches, build a positive team culture, and help grow a program where young athletes can challenge themselves, build confidence, and discover what they're capable of—in and out of the pool. We're looking for a coach who understands that success isn't measured only by the clock. It's also measured by progress, teamwork, confidence, sportsmanship, and a lifelong love of swimming. As our Head Swim Coach, you'll provide leadership and direction for the YMCA Swim Team while creating a positive, developmental experience for our swimmers.

Requirements

YMCA Competitive Swimming Certification (to be obtained within 3 months of hire date)
One year experience teaching swim practices/lessons to a range of ability levels and age groups.
Basic life support or professional rescuer CPR/AED, first aid, and emergency oxygen administration
Current YMCA Lifeguard of equivalent
Child abuse prevention training upon hire date
Ability to maintain certification-level physical and mental readiness

Nice To Haves

Knowledgeable skills involved in all levels of competitive swimming
Enthusiastic
Responsible
Able to relate to and motivate participants
Able to supervise all coaching staff
Prior experience with the YMCA swim programs
Water Safety Instructor (WSI) Certification

Responsibilities

Plan and lead engaging, progressive swim practices that support swimmers at varying skill and developmental levels.
Lead the program in accordance with YMCA and PSSA Swim League guidelines.
Mentor, train, and support assistant swim coaches, helping create a strong and consistent coaching team.
Select appropriate swim meets and prepare accurate, timely meet entries.
Represent the YMCA Swim Team at meets and serve as a positive role model for swimmers, families, and coaches.
Help swimmers set goals, improve technique, build endurance, and develop confidence.
Foster a team culture centered on encouragement, sportsmanship, belonging, and healthy competition.
Build positive relationships with parents and maintain clear, consistent communication throughout the season.
Encourage parent involvement and support participation in the team's Booster Club.
Help grow and expand the swim team so that it reflects and welcomes our diverse community.
Maintain required program records, paperwork, equipment, and supplies.
Follow YMCA safety, emergency, medical, disciplinary, youth protection, and mandated reporting procedures.