NSU University School

Rowing Program Director & Varsity Head Coach
Program Scope: Grades 6–12 (Middle School & Upper School)

Position Overview

The NSU University School Rowing Program Director & Varsity Head Coach is responsible for the vision, leadership, and comprehensive development of the school’s rowing program serving students in grades 6–12.  This individual will serve as the Varsity Head Coach while providing strategic oversight of all program levels to ensure continuity, excellence, and alignment with the school’s mission.  The ideal candidate is a transformational leader committed to cultivating a culture of commitment, accountability, hard work, and competitive excellence, while developing young men and women of character with a drive to compete and win.  This leader will build authentic relationships with student-athletes and families, attract mission-aligned student-athletes, and elevate the program’s reputation within the school and broader community.

Note – a full-time teaching position in the Physical Education Department is available in conjunction with the coaching role if desired by the candidate and experience aligns.

Program Leadership & Vision

• Develop and articulate a clear vision and philosophy for the rowing program aligned with the school’s mission and athletic department values
• Establish consistent standards, expectations, and systems across all levels (6^th-12th grade)
• Foster a culture of accountability, discipline, work ethic, and pride in the program
• Serve as the primary ambassador for the program within the school community and externally

Varsity Coaching Responsibilities

• Lead the Varsity Rowing team with a focus on competitive success, student-athlete development, and team culture
• Design and implement effective practice plans, strategies, and developmental programming
• Prepare student-athletes to compete at the highest levels and pursue collegiate opportunities when appropriate
• Promote sportsmanship, integrity, and respect for teammates, coaches, and opponents

Student-Athlete Development

• Develop young men and women of character through mentorship, leadership training, and life skills
• Emphasize accountability, resilience, teamwork, and competitive mindset
• Support academic success and alignment with school expectations
• Build strong, trust-based relationships with student-athletes

Program Structure & Staff Leadership

• Hire, train, mentor, and evaluate coaching staff across all levels of the program
• Ensure alignment in teaching methods, terminology, and culture
• Collaborate with the Athletic Director on staffing, budgeting, and program planning

Admissions & Enrollment Collaboration

• Partner with Admissions to attract mission-aligned student-athletes who fit the school’s academic and character profile
• Engage prospective families and showcase the program as a destination for growth and competitive excellence
• Maintain positive relationships with local youth programs, feeder teams, and community organizations

Parent & Community Engagement

• Communicate effectively and proactively with parents and families
• Collaborate with the Camp Director and Lower School Director to create engaging programming that develop foundational skills and generates excitement around the program
• Build partnerships with alumni, supporters, and community stakeholders
• Represent the program with professionalism and enthusiasm at school events

Operational Responsibilities

• Oversee scheduling, logistics, budgets, equipment, and facilities usage
• Ensure compliance with the rowing governing bodies and school policies
• Collaborate with athletic training and academic support teams

Qualifications & Experience

• Proven success as a rowing coach and program leader at the high school or collegiate level
• Experience developing student-athletes across multiple age levels (middle school through high school preferred)
• Demonstrated ability to build culture and lead young men and women with purpose
• Commitment to the mission and values of an elite private school environment
• Knowledge of student-athlete development models, team systems, and recruiting pathways
• Relationship-builder who attracts and retains the right student-athletes
• Strong relational skills with students, parents, faculty, and administrators
• Teaching certification or willingness to serve in a teaching role
• Competitive, organized, and detail-oriented
• Passion for excellence

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and supporting documentation to Director of Athletics, Matt McManus, at mmcmanu1@nova.edu.

About NSU University School

NSU University School is a PK1-12, college-preparatory school serving approximately 1,800 students on the larger Nova Southeastern University campus in South Florida.

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