Coaching Staff

GW Men's Rowing seeks a full-time head coach to lead our rowing program

This candidate’s primary responsibility is to develop the required infrastructure to build and maintain a successful men’s rowing program; defined by competitive success, student-athlete recruitment, and program legacy development.   

About GW Men’s Rowing
Founded in 1956, GW Men’s Rowing has seventy years of competitive history. Located in the Nation’s capital, the team practices on the Potomac River against the backdrop of the monuments and skyline of Washington, DC. The team made the transition from Division I Varsity status in 2021, and now operates as a club program operated by students and supported by an alumni board. We are committed to building and sustaining a program that competes at the highest levels of collegiate rowing, by providing students an unparalleled opportunity for athletic achievement, whilst cultivating individuals develop beyond the sport.

About the Head Coach
GWMR is an ambitious organization that is looking for a multi-talented, experienced head coach to propel us into our next chapter.  You will have deep wealth of experience coaching varsity level rowing at highest levels and in a leadership position. You are driven by the desire to create a nationally competitive men's rowing club and therefore are not afraid to break away from the traditional way of running a team in the USA.

Our Head Coach will direct and manage all aspects of the national level Men’s Rowing Program. Train and coach student-athletes to maximize their potential during practice and competitions, provide a strong student-athlete experience, recruit and retain students who can succeed at GW athletically and academically; supervise and mentor assistant coaches and staff; oversee program budget and fundraise as needed; demonstrate commitment to the team mission and core values.

You will have excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire, enthuse, persuade, influence and motivate those around you and the broader GWMR network. You will be able to work on your own initiative, as well as displaying strong team working skills.  You will be motivated by competing at the highest level and building something of your own legacy.

Job Description and Experience
1. Primary Responsibilities:
•  Overseeing competitive, and safe rowing practices for men of the GW Men’s Rowing Team.
• Creating a competitive training program, and overseeing morning and afternoon practices.
• Recruiting athletes year on year from across the nation, and directing on-campus recruiting.
•  Ensure coaching quality standards are set and maintained throughout the year.
• Building a positive and competitive team culture while adhering to school standards.
• Plan and attend regattas (3-4 Fall races & 5-6 Spring races).
• Lead alumni and student-athletes in annual fundraising.
• Administer and organize a large collegiate regatta in April (GW Invitational).

2. Academic Commitment:
• Reinforce academic goals and progress of student-athletes.
• Recruit student-athletes who are a good academic fit for the university.
• Demonstrate accountability for academic progress.

3. Communication & Leadership:
• Communicate effectively and in a timely manner with athletes, staff, and administration.
• Motivate student-athletes and staff through positive reinforcement.
• Oversee budget responsibly and productively.

4. Relations & Fundraising:
• Promote community involvement/service within the program.
• Support and actively participate in fundraising opportunities.
• Assume responsibility for achieving team fundraising goals.
• Coordinate with University and Friends of GWMR (FOGWMR) regarding annual budget process for the program.
• Participate in budget meetings with University and FOGWMR as necessary.

5. Theory and Techniques of Coaching:
• Apply knowledge of sport to teach skills and techniques.
• Assist student-athletes in reaching their fullest potential.
• Develop and implement effective training protocols.
• Demonstrate ability to evaluate and improve performance as needed.
• Develop positive team culture and morale.
• Enforce team rules, maintain consistent and appropriate discipline.
• Monitor the day-to-day upkeep and operational readiness of the rowing fleet, including shells, oars, launches, and motors.

6. Athlete Support:
•  Coach holistically, developing individuals as athletes and people who will succeed after university rowing.

7. Skills and Experience
• Significant and measurable experience successfully recruiting collegiate standard oarsman.
• At least three years’ successful coaching experience at a College varsity / Club  level at a minimum.
• At least two years working in a leadership and supervisory role.
• Proven strategic planning skills and excellent organizational and administrative skills.
• Experience of setting and working with budgets.
• Highest level of personal integrity, professional zeal and growth mind set.
•  A demonstrable leadership style, with deep understanding of cultivating and developing student-athletes.
• Resilient, determined, professional, friendly and resourceful, evidencing creativity and innovation.
• Ability to obtain CPR/First Aid Certification.
•  Current boater safety license.
• Valid drivers license and experience driving trailers.
• Successfully pass a background check.
• Optimistic, inspiring, technically strong and self-motivated.
•  Excellent communication skills.

Compensation:
• Base: $60,000 -  $70,000 (Commensurate with experience).
• Opportunity for compensation growth tied to program growth, performance outcomes, and fundraising success.

Time Commitment: 
• This is a full-time, 40 hour a week position, and includes working on weekends (Saturday practices) and occasional travel for on weekends for races.

Application Process:
Please submit a resume, and cover letter to: gwmrcoachsearch@gmail.com