Head Cheer Coach

Position Description Summary/Purpose: The University of Bridgeport is seeking a dynamic and entrepreneurial leader to serve as Head Cheer & Spirit Coach / Director of Cheer Program. This is a unique opportunity to build a collegiate cheer program from the ground up, with a focus on recruiting, student engagement, and future competitive success. The successful candidate will be responsible for launching a sideline cheer team with the long-term goal of developing a competitive cheer program capable of participating in regional and national competitions. Essential Job Functions/Primary Responsibilities: Represent the University of Bridgeport and the Athletic Department in a positive manner with a high degree of integrity and quality. Establish, grow and retain members for the cheer and spirit program. Build relationships with high school programs, all-star gyms, and coaches. Organize and lead tryouts, clinics, and recruiting events. Coordinate choreography (internally or with external choreographers). Promote cheerleading at the University of Bridgeport and have the squad attend various sporting events as well as university events. Provide leadership in the planning and operation of the program. Administer cheer policies as set forth by the governing body standards and the key to UB. Organize and facilitate all practice sessions, contest preparation, and competition. Build toward participation in competitions such as those hosted by Universal Cheerleaders Association and National Cheerleaders Association. Prepare routines, manage travel, and oversee competition logistics. Adhere to budgets as established by the Athletic Department. Assist in promotion and public relations activities for the University. Create a high level of visibility on campus and in the community. Conduct all work in a safe manner and ensure all work safety practices are followed. Other Functions: Collaborate with Athletics, Admissions, and Student Affairs. Perform similar or related work as required, directed or as situation dictates. Continue professional development and training; keep current with trends. Assist other department staff as needed to promote a team effort. Knowledge, Ability and Skill: Manage roster, eligibility, and compliance requirements. Teach fundamental and advanced cheer techniques, including stunting, tumbling, and performance. Ensure athlete safety and proper progression of skills. Demonstrated commitment to developing and fostering best practices and policies to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and build an environment in which all members of the University community are treated with respect and dignity. Qualifications: Minimum Required Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree required. Prior cheerleading experience (collegiate, all-star, or equivalent). Demonstrated ability to teach fundamental cheer skills. Strong organizational and communication skills. Willingness to work evenings and weekends. Preferred: Previous coaching or recruiting experience. Established recruiting network in high school or all-star cheer. Experience with competitive cheer programs. CPR/AED and safety certifications (or willingness to obtain). Physical and Mental Requirements: Work Environment: None. Under 1/3: 1/3 to 2/3: Over 2/3: Outdoor Weather Conditions: X Work with fumes or airborne particles: X Work near moving mechanical parts: X Risk of electrical shock: X Vibration: X Physical Activity: None. Under 1/3. 1/3 to 2/3. Over 2/3. Standing: X Walking: X Sitting: X Talking & Hearing: X Using hands/fingers to handle/feel: X Climbing or balancing: X Bending, pulling, pushing: X Driving: X Lifting Requirements: None. Under 1/3. 1/3 to 2/3. Over 2/3. Up to 10 pounds: X. Up to 25 pounds: X. Up to 50 pounds: X. Up to 75 pounds: X. Up to 100 pounds: X. Over 100 pounds: X. Vision requirements (Especially relevant if driving is required by the job): X Close vision (i.e. clear vision at 20 inches or less) X Distance vision (i.e. clear vision at 20 feet or more) _____ Color vision (i.e. ability to identify and distinguish colors) X Peripheral vision (i.e. ability to observe an area that can be seen up and down or left and right while the eyes are fixed on a given point) X Depth perception (i.e. three-dimensional vision, ability to judge distances and spatial relationships) ___ No special vision requirements (This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between The University of Bridgeport and employee. It is used as a guide for personnel actions and is subject to change by the University as the needs of the University and requirements of the job change.) The University of Bridgeport provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. The University of Bridgeport complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. #J-18808-Ljbffr