Aquatics Director

Overview

The Director of Competitive Swimming is responsible for leading and managing the YMCA’s competitive swim program, including coaching, athlete development, and program administration. The role focuses on fostering a culture of excellence, sportsmanship, and inclusion while advancing the YMCA’s mission of youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. This position oversees all aspects of competitive swimming, including staff supervision, team operations, community engagement, and compliance with YMCA and USA Swimming regulations.

• Develop and oversee all aspects of the competitive swim program, including training plans, practice and meet schedules, and team goals.
• Ensure the program meets the needs of all swimmers, from novice to elite levels.
• Create a positive, motivating environment that promotes skill development, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
• Collaborate with other YMCA departments to integrate swim team activities into broader organizational initiatives.
• Collaborate with PSSA, PNS and PNA
• Serve as the head coach for the competitive swim team, leading practices and providing technical instruction.
• Attend swim meets and swim team functions and schedule all coaches to attend meets
• Develop personalized training plans that focus on individual swimmer improvement and team success.
• Monitor swimmer progress and provide regular feedback to athletes and parents.
• Stay updated on the latest coaching techniques and trends in competitive swimming.
• Recruit, train, and supervise assistant coaches and program staff.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and professional growth among staff.
• Conduct regular performance evaluations and provide constructive feedback.
• Recruit, retain and work effectively with volunteers
• Coordinate all aspects of swim meet participation, including entries, logistics, and volunteer management.
• Oversee team registration, communication, and parent engagement.
• Manage team equipment and uniform needs.
• Develop a diverse menu of programs to include and not limited to stroke & turn clinics, specialized clinics and summer developmental team.
• Develop and manage the program budget, ensuring financial sustainability.
• Development recruitment strategies for new swimmers as well as retention strategies for existing swimmers.
• Track and report program performance metrics, including participation and retention rates.
• Secure sponsor ships, grants, and fundraising opportunities to support team operations.
• Ensure all practices and meets adhere to YMCA and USA Swimming safety standards.
• Maintain accurate records of swimmer certifications, including membership, medical, and safety forms.
• Promote and enforce YMCA policies, including those related to child protection and inclusion.
• Serve as a representative of the YMCA at community events, swim leagues, and regional competitions.
• Build relationships with local schools, swim clubs, and organizations to promote the program.
• Act as a liaison between parents, athletes, and the YMCA to foster open communication and trust.

• Bachelor’s degree in physical education, sports management, or a related field (preferred).
• Minimum of 5 years of competitive swim coaching experience, including head coach or leadership roles.
• Proven experience in program development and administration.
• Minimum of 4 years of coaching in a competitive swimming experience
• Current USA Swimming and Y-USA Coach Credentials.
• US Masters Certified Coach (or ability to obtain within 90 days)
• YMCA Lifeguard Certification (or ability to obtain within 90 days).
• CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications.
• YMCA Team Leader Certification (or ability to obtain within 12 months).

· Obtain and maintain all new hire certifications and trainings within 90 days of hire.

· Build relationships with a diverse membership base in culturally responsive ways, connect members with one another and to the YMCA

· Exhibit Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility

· Commitment to Equity and Inclusion.

· Complete required training and certifications within established guidelines

· Arrive on time ready for shift, clock in/out within timekeeping system