Head Team Coach - West Loop

Overview

First Ascent is the largest program in the Midwest area with many nationally competitive youth climbers, multiple athletes on the National Team, previous and current National Champions, and IFSC Youth World Championship experience. First Ascent West Loop seeks a Head Youth Team Coach with excellent initiative, communication skills (youth and parents), motivational skills, knowledge of the mechanics of climbing, and a personality that thrives on diversity.

This full-time hourly role will receive guidance from the First Ascent Team Director. Primary working hours will be Monday through Friday in the evenings with some occasional weekends for competitions. The season runs from Labor Day through June 30th. This position requires someone who is inspired to teach talented youth climbers in a competitive program, who is extremely knowledgeable in climbing movement and physical training, and has experience working within the USAC competition youth series.

The Head Coach will be tasked with 4 main priorities:

• Integrating the current training structure, style, levels, and methodologies of the current West Loop team program with the FA team program.
• Growing the program at all levels—from new U11 competitors to seasoned Elite Level competitors.
• Evaluating, developing, and directing new Asst. Coaches.
• Building a strong, collaborative relationship between the youth team, the setting team, gym management, and the general membership of the West Loop facility.

The below responsibilities are subject to change based on the needs of the organization.

• Contribute to the development of a periodized training plan that the team will follow through the 10-month season.
• Contribute to and execute a structured daily training plan that follows the 10-month plan for all levels of the team.
• Conduct climbing team practices with safety, efficiency, intentionality, and enthusiasm.
• Regular communication with the Team Director to address concerns, discuss program adaptations and review program KPIs.
• Conduct regular one-on-one meetings with periodic reviews with asst. coaches.
• Travel to USAC Competitions to coach athletes and direct asst. Coaches.
• Set, or direct the setting of, team specific boulders and/or training exercises.
• Represent First Ascent in a professional manner, and be an exceptional ambassador of climbing.

• Minimum of four years youth coaching experience.
• Minimum of two years coaching experience in USA Climbing.
• Minimum of six years of climbing experience.
• Exceptional top rope, and lead belaying skill with experience in teaching belaying to youth climbers.
• Some route setting experience is preferred.

• Friendly demeanor, positive attitude, and adaptability to various personality types.
• Must be able to take constructive feedback well, and to transform it into lasting changes.
• Must be comfortable working in a fast-paced, and variable environment.
• Must prioritize collaborative and constructive feedback for youth athletes.
• Must have an enthusiasm for sharing knowledge, and love climbing, and fitness.
• A positive attitude, flexible working style, and creative problem-solving skills.
• Familiarity with USA Climbing Rules, disciplines, and competition formats.
• Ability to meet USA Climbing’s Level 2 Coach certification requirements.

• Pay range: $19–$25 per hour, depending on experience. Full-time, hourly
• 401k Available.
• Free membership to all First Ascent locations.
• Access to pro-deals.
• Access to First Ascent’s Employee Assistance Program.

• Climate controlled indoor environment.
• Noise level ranges from moderate to loud.
• Commercial gym space with non-team members in the same, or adjacent space.
• Most of the working time is spent on your feet.

First Ascent is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. First Ascent does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, marital status, protective order status, military status, sexual orientation, citizenship status, genetic information, ancestry, pregnancy or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local law.

First Ascent prohibits harassment of any individual on any of the protected characteristics listed above.

Since 2015, First Ascent Climbing & Fitness has been sharing our love of climbing, yoga and fitness with everyone that walks through our doors. With 8 gyms in the First Ascent family, we’re excited to keep serving and growing the climbing community, one climber at a time.