Head Nordic Coach- High School

Job Title: Head Nordic Ski Coach

School: Middle Park High School

District: East Grand School District

Location: Granby Colorado

Reports To: Athletic Director

Application Deadline: June 17th

Start Date: Summer 2025

Position Overview:

Middle Park High School a proud member of the East Grand School District is seeking an organized passionate and visionary individual to lead its Nordic Ski program as Head Coach. Situated in a prime location for Nordic skiing with world-class trails nearby the Head Coach will be responsible for building upon the existing program expanding participation and fostering a culture of excellence sportsmanship and lifelong appreciation for Nordic skiing. This role demands strong organizational skills to manage logistics across varied terrain and weather as well as a strategic mindset to recruit and develop athletes from diverse athletic backgrounds driving sustainable program growth.

Responsibilities:

• Program Organization & Management:
• Develop and execute a comprehensive annual training plan including pre-season conditioning in-season practices and race preparation adapted to Grand Countys specific winter conditions and facility access (e.g. Snow Mountain Ranch).
• Efficiently manage all logistical aspects of the program including but not limited to:
• Scheduling practices at appropriate venues considering snow conditions and daylight.
• Coordinating with transportation for practices and competitions.
• Organizing and maintaining team equipment (skis poles boots waxing supplies) ensuring proper fit care and inventory.
• Managing team communication (schedule changes updates results) through various platforms (e.g. email text team app).
• Overseeing uniform distribution collection and maintenance.
• Develop and manage the programs budget responsibly in conjunction with the Athletic Director prioritizing equipment needs travel and coaching resources for growth.
• Ensure strict adherence to all Colorado High School Activities Association (CHSAA) rules and regulations as well as East Grand School District and Middle Park High School policies particularly concerning eligibility safety and competition guidelines.
• Prepare and submit all necessary administrative paperwork accurately and on time (e.g. rosters eligibility forms travel requests accident reports).
• Program Growth & Development:
• Implement and lead strategies to actively recruit new student-athletes to the Nordic Ski program engaging with middle school programs physical education classes and community events (e.g. ski swap youth ski days).
• Develop introductory clinics or learn to ski opportunities for new participants lowering barriers to entry.
• Foster a welcoming and inclusive team environment that encourages retention of current athletes and attracts newcomers regardless of prior experience.
• Collaborate with local ski clubs community organizations (e.g. Grand Nordic) and Nordic centers (e.g. Snow Mountain Ranch) to leverage resources create feeder programs and enhance athlete development pathways.
• Establish clear progression pathways for athletes from beginner to advanced focusing on technique development fitness and race strategy for both classic and skate disciplines.
• Actively seek and participate in professional development opportunities related to Nordic ski coaching waxing techniques sport science and program management to continually enhance the programs offerings.
• Coaching & Mentorship:
• Provide expert instruction in Nordic ski technique (classic and skate) conditioning principles race tactics and ski waxing.
• Design and implement training sessions that cater to varying skill levels within the team promoting individual improvement.
• Cultivate a strong team culture emphasizing sportsmanship perseverance resilience teamwork and a love for the outdoors.
• Act as a positive role model and mentor guiding student-athletes in character development leadership and academic excellence.
• Monitor student-athlete academic progress and communicate effectively with school staff regarding any concerns.
• Communication & Collaboration:
• Maintain open transparent and consistent communication with student-athletes parents assistant coaches school administration and the Athletic Director.
• Conduct informational meetings for prospective athletes and parents to outline program expectations schedules and opportunities.
• Recruit train supervise and mentor assistant coaches fostering a cohesive and effective coaching staff.
• Collaborate with other Middle Park High School athletic programs and coaches to promote a positive and supportive school-wide athletic culture.
• Engage with the East Grand School District community to build support and enthusiasm for the Nordic Ski program.

Qualifications:

• Required:
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Demonstrated knowledge of Nordic ski technique (classic and skate) training methodologies and race strategies.
• Previous coaching experience in Nordic skiing at the high school club or collegiate level.
• Exceptional organizational skills with a proven ability to manage complex logistics schedules and equipment.
• Strong leadership communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse student-athletes parents and colleagues.
• CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain immediately upon hire).
• Ability to pass a comprehensive background check required by the East Grand School District.
• Valid Colorado Drivers License and ability to drive school vehicles for transportation or willingness to obtain necessary endorsements.
• Preferred:
• Bachelors degree in a related field (e.g. Physical Education Sports Management Exercise Science).
• Collegiate Nordic ski racing experience.
• US Ski & Snowboard (USSS) Level 100 or higher coaching certification (or equivalent).
• Experience with ski waxing techniques and equipment maintenance.
• Familiarity with CHSAA rules and regulations specific to Nordic skiing.
• Deep understanding and appreciation of coaching in a mountain community recognizing unique opportunities and challenges (e.g. snow conditions athlete access community engagement).