Knoxville, Tennessee
Knoxville, Tennessee
Posted: 05-May-26
Location: Nashville, Tennessee
Type: Full Time
Categories:
Summary
Franklin Road Academy (FRA) seeks a dynamic, strategic, and student-centered Assistant Athletic Director Responsible for Middle School Athletics to lead and advance its middle school athletic program. Reporting to the Director of Athletics and serving as a key member of the athletic leadership team, this twelve-month position is responsible for the vision, management, and execution of all middle school athletics.
The Assistant Athletic Director Responsible for Middle School Athletics plays a critical role in shaping students' first formal athletic experiences, fostering a culture rooted in skill development, sportsmanship, teamwork, and character. This leader ensures that the program reflects FRA's mission and delivers a developmentally appropriate, inclusive, and competitive experience for all student-athletes.
Essential Functions
The tasks, duties, and responsibilities of this job include, but are not limited to:
Program Leadership & Strategy
- Provide strategic leadership for the middle school athletic program, ensuring alignment with FRA's mission and the broader athletic department vision.
- Evaluate program offerings, participation trends, and competitive opportunities to support thoughtful program growth.
- Design and implement a cohesive developmental model that prepares student-athletes for upper school athletics.
- Promote multi-sport participation and a developmentally appropriate approach that prioritizes skill-building, confidence, and long-term athletic growth over early specialization.
Coaching Leadership & Development
- Recruit, hire, mentor, and evaluate middle school coaches in partnership with the Director of Athletics and Head of Middle School.
- Establish clear expectations for coaching aligned with FRA values, including sportsmanship, student safety, and character development.
- Lead ongoing professional development and communication for coaching staff.
Operations & Administration
- Oversee all operational aspects of middle school athletics, including scheduling, transportation, facilities, equipment, and game-day management.
- Ensure compliance with league regulations, school policies, and best practices in student-athlete health and safety.
- Manage budgets and resource allocation in coordination with the athletic department.
Student-Athlete Experience
- Maintain a consistent and visible presence at practices and competitions.
- Partner with faculty and administrators to support student-athlete well-being and academic balance.
- Foster a positive and inclusive environment that prioritizes participation, growth, and enjoyment.
- Communicate proactively and effectively with students, families, and coaches.
Collaboration & Community Engagement
- Collaborate with the Director of Athletics and varsity head coaches to ensure alignment across all levels.
- Serve as a visible ambassador for FRA within the middle school and across the broader community.
- Build strong relationships with families, faculty, and community stakeholders.
Additional School Responsibilities
- Teach up to three classes and serve as a middle school advisor, as needed.
- Serve as a head varsity coach, contributing to the broader athletic program.
Qualifications
Education/Experience
- Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree preferred.
- Proven experience in coaching and/or administering middle school athletics.
- Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
- Understanding of adolescent development and age-appropriate athletic programming.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.
- Commitment to the mission and values of Franklin Road Academy.
Preferred Attributes
- Experience within independent school environments.
- Collaborative leadership style with the ability to build trust across constituencies.
- Passion for athletics as a platform for leadership and character development.
- Strategic mindset with the ability to balance long-term program development and day-to-day execution.
Physical Requirements
This position operates in both indoor and outdoor athletic environments and requires regular standing and walking, as well as occasional running. Responsibilities may include exposure to varying weather conditions and the ability to lift or assist with items up to 50 pounds. Reasonable accommodations will be made in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Additional Responsibilities
The statements in this job description are intended to represent the key duties, essential nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be all the responsibilities or qualifications of the job.
All employees are expected to support the mission of Franklin Road Academy, and contribute to the overall life of the school.
