Sports Program Specialist

Program Specialist (Sports)

The Program Specialist Sports plays a vital role in advancing the YMCA's mission of strengthening community by connecting people to their potential, purpose, and one another. This position leads and supports skill development and instructional sports clinics that foster confidence, teamwork, and growth. Through coaching, demonstration, and relationship-building, this role helps create a safe and engaging environment where youth and families thrive. Guided by the YMCA's core valuesCaring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibilitywe foster a culture that is Welcoming, Genuine, Hopeful, Nurturing, and Determined.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Lead and facilitate age-appropriate sports clinics and instructional sessions with enthusiasm and professionalism.
2. Demonstrate and teach sport-specific skills with clarity, patience, and developmental awareness.
3. Encourage sportsmanship, teamwork, and personal growth through positive coaching strategies.
4. Support participants at varying skill levels, adapting instruction as needed to ensure inclusion and engagement.
5. Assist in program planning, equipment prep, and activity setup/cleanup.
6. Build strong relationships with participants and families through positive communication and encouragement.
7. Ensure the safety and well-being of all participants; follow and enforce all YMCA safety policies.
8. Model professional behavior while following YMCA policies related to confidentiality, conduct, and behavioral expectations.
9. Communicate effectively with the Sports & Recreation Director regarding program needs or incidents.
10. Model YMCA core values and use the Y-Voice: Welcoming, Hopeful, Determined, Genuine, and Nurturing. Support and guide other staff in demonstrating these behaviors consistently across the program.
11. Perform other duties as assigned in support of the YMCA's mission and strategic goals.

YMCA Competency Areas:

• Program/Project Management: Plans and delivers high-quality, age-appropriate sports experiences.
• Communication & Influence: Builds rapport and trust through instruction and feedback.
• Critical Thinking & Decision Making: Adjusts plans in real time to meet the needs of the group.
• Developing Self & Others: Serves as a role model and encourages continuous growth in others.

Qualifications:

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Strong understanding of the sport(s) being taught and ability to demonstrate skills.
• Prior experience working with youth or in sports instruction preferred.
• Certification in Mandatory Child Abuse Reporting and Emergency Procedures (or willingness to obtain upon hire).
• Ability to communicate clearly, motivate participants, and maintain group attention.
• Understands that the YMCA is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Required Training and Certifications (or willingness to obtain upon hire):

• Bloodborne Pathogens Training (or equivalent approved by the YMCA)
• Mandatory Child Abuse Reporting Certification
• Emergency Procedures Training
• CPR and First Aid Certification

Work Environment and Physical Demands:

• Must be able to lead physical activity sessions indoors and outdoors.
• Requires regular standing, running, bending, and lifting up to 25 lbs.
• May be exposed to varied weather depending on program setting.
• Ability to maintain visual and auditory supervision of participants in active, dynamic environments.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Impact Statement: This role directly contributes to the Norm Waitt Sr. YMCA's mission by creating transformational experiences through meaningful connections, quality service, and a welcoming environment. In doing so, it strengthens both our Siouxland community and the broader impact of the YMCA across the country.