Head Coach, Spirit

Role overview

Austin Peay State University is looking for a Head Coach for its spirit program. This position leads the spirit squad by organizing training, practices, tryouts, camps, and game-day engagement while keeping participant safety and program standards at the center of the role.

Key responsibilities

• Design, plan, and oversee workouts and practice sessions for the spirit squad.
• Take responsibility for the wellbeing and safety of all squad members.
• Run tryouts for cheerleaders, dancers, and mascots.
• Build the annual budget and raise funds to help sustain a strong competition program.
• Organize cheer and dance camps.
• Increase crowd involvement and help create an upbeat, high-energy atmosphere at university athletic events.

Knowledge, skills, and abilities

• Experience identifying and recruiting strong student-athletes.
• Ability to assess, teach, and develop the core skills and strategies of the sport.
• Strong understanding of University, TBR, ASUN, and NCAA rules and requirements.
• Clear and professional communication skills.
• Ability to handle confidential records and sensitive information appropriately.
• Comfort working effectively with students, staff, the university community, and the public.
• Skill in maintaining timely and accurate documentation, including budget, eligibility, compliance, and travel records.

Required qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
• At least 2 years of coaching experience at the collegiate level.
• Willingness to earn or renew, within 6 months of hiring, the required safety and training certifications from recognized organizations, including USA Cheer, NFSHS, and First Aid/CPR/AED.
• A valid driver’s license.
• Working knowledge of tumbling, stunting, nutrition, fitness, NCA and UCA guidelines, and relevant NCAA standards.
• Understanding of both all-girl and co-ed cheerleading techniques.
• Ability to coach the fundamentals of cheer and dance and prepare squads for national competitions and public appearances.
• Experience coordinating stunt clinics and workshops.
• Ability to manage and monitor departmental budgets.
• Capability to support fundraising efforts for the program.
• Availability to work evenings and weekends.

Physical demands

This role is classified as medium work, which may require exerting up to 50 pounds occasionally, up to 20 pounds frequently, and up to 10 pounds constantly to move objects.