Assistant Coach

Job Summary

TITLE: Assistant Coach

LOCATION: Olney neighborhood of Philadelphia, PA

EMPLOYMENT DATES: Winter and Spring Season

ABOUT HARLEM LACROSSE

Harlem Lacrosse is a national nonprofit organization that leverages lacrosse to guide academic progress and prepare underserved youth for life after high school. We provide year round academic, enrichment, and lacrosse programming in cities where lacrosse is emerging and additional educational support is needed. We expand educational access and opportunity by nurturing authentic relationships with students and families from sixth grade through high school graduation. Ultimately, we use everything about the sport we love to help the students we love chase their boldest dreams! 

Harlem Lacrosse Philadelphia began in 2017 and currently operates 4 middle school and 2 high school programs, for boys and girls, in the Olney section of North Philadelphia.

ABOUT THE ROLE: As an Assistant Coach for Harlem Lacrosse, you will gain valuable experience working directly with students throughout the HL - Philadelphia Fall season, discussing and implementing coaching and teaching strategies with Harlem Lacrosse staff. The Assistant Coach will help create a positive, safe, and competitive environment for athletes while ensuring the development of their skills and understanding of the sport.

REPORTS TO: Position reports to the Harlem Lacrosse Managing Director, and works directly with our Program Directors

PROGRAM SCHEDULE: We are currently filling positions for boys & girls coaches

• Monday - Thursday (2-3x per week depending on when programming is)

• 3/4PM - 5:30PM

• Athletic + Academic tutoring options available 

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

IF ATHLETIC:

Practice Support

• Help coach lacrosse practices

• Ensure proper techniques and skills are being taught in line with the program’s goals.

• Offer individual instruction and feedback to athletes, emphasizing skill development and teamwork.

Team Support:

• Encourage teamwork, discipline, sportsmanship, and positive behavior both on and off the field.

• Supervise athletes during training, breaks, and other team-related activities.

• Help with the setup and breakdown of equipment for practices.

• Support the establishment of both a strong team culture and individual relationships with students to encourage attendance and engagement.

Safety & Health:

• Ensure the safety and well-being of all athletes, including first-aid and injury prevention.

• Adhere to safety protocols and guidelines set by the school or athletic department.

• Report injuries to the head coach and assist with basic care and treatment as needed.

Communication & Coordination:

• Maintain a positive and professional relationship with athletes, parents, and summer staff personnel.

Mentorship & Leadership:

• Be a role model for athletes, demonstrating strong leadership, work ethic, and integrity.

• Foster a supportive and encouraging environment to motivate student-athletes.

COMPENSATION:

• Volunteer, School credit, or paid positions available

WHAT YOU BRING:

• Previous coaching experience, preferably at the high school or middle school level, is desirable.

• Experience participating in or coaching lacrosse is highly preferred if interested in athletic support. 

• Skills & Abilities:

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with athletes, coaches, and other staff members.

  • Ability to motivate and inspire athletes while maintaining a focus on development and teamwork.

  • Knowledge of the sport's rules, strategies, and training techniques.

  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a coaching team.

• Personal Characteristics:

  • Enthusiastic, positive, and professional attitude.

  • Strong organizational and time-management skills.

  • Punctual and able to meet specific deadlines.

  • Ability to handle sensitive situations with discretion and professionalism.

  • Strong collaboration skills as this position works directly with our full time High School Program Director.

How to Apply

To apply, send the following to [email protected]  with “Harlem Lacrosse Assistant Coach” in the subject heading:

1. A cover letter stating your interest in interning with Harlem Lacrosse,

2. You weekly availability and area of interest (athletic or academic)

Harlem Lacrosse is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply. Diversity of opinions, experiences, and backgrounds is a key asset. We do not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, ancestry, national origin, religion, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, marital status or any legally protected status. Don’t meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that women and BIPOC are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At Harlem Lacrosse we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive and authentic workspace, so if you are excited about this role but your previous experience may not align exactly with every qualification in the position description, we encourage you to apply anyways. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles with our growing organization.