After School Coach (26-27 School Year)

Summary

We are actively seeking coaches, college students, and youth development specialists to join our dynamic team of after-school coaches and activity specialists from September 2026 through June 2027. As a valued member of Kids in the Game, you will be able to help us follow and model our 5 organizational core values through action:

• Positivity: Create an energetic and uplifting environment where kids feel excited to participate.
• Empathy: Show understanding and support for each child’s unique needs and emotions.
• Commitment: Be dependable and deliver consistent, high-quality programming.
• Ambition: Strive to continuously improve as a coach and inspire youth to set and achieve personal goals.
• Inclusivity: Ensure every child, regardless of ability or background, feels welcomed and valued.

Qualifications

Our ideal coach would meet some or all of the following qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in the areas of K-12 Education, Sports Management, Physical Education, or a related field is strongly preferred.
• Possess at least two years of prior coaching experience or several years of experience playing specialized sports in competitive or recreational settings.
• Possess strong interpersonal skills to relate to younger children, work with different age groups, and partner with school staff to support children’s physical and emotional needs.
• Be available to work Monday through Friday during after school hours (3-6pm).
• Up-to-date physical exam and tuberculosis test documentation will be required before starting.
• You must pass Federal and NY State background checks and be willing to complete Department of Education fingerprinting before starting.
• CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications are a plus.

Physical Requirements & Active Coaching Expectations

At Kids in the Game, our coaches are active, engaged, and present with kids—on the playground, in the gym, and out in the community. The physical requirements below reflect the essential functions of our coaching roles and the dynamic environments in which our programs take place. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to support individuals with disabilities in performing these essential functions.

Physical activity levels may vary by coaching placement (recess, PE, after school, or summer camp), but all roles involve active supervision, movement, and hands-on engagement with children.

Active supervision & physical requirements include:

1. Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time, including during outdoor activities, playground supervision, gym classes, or park-based programming.
2. Ability to walk to and from nearby program locations or parks, sometimes several blocks, while supervising children.
3. Ability to bend, kneel, crouch, and reach to engage with children at their level, assist with activities, or provide support as needed.
4. Ability to climb stairs in school buildings or community facilities.
5. Ability to lift and carry up to 25–40 pounds, including sports equipment, activity supplies, or personal belongings (weight may vary by role).
6. Ability to participate in active games and movement-based activities, including running, jumping, throwing, and demonstrating basic sports skills.
7. Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, or light rain, depending on program needs.
8. Ability to maintain visual and auditory awareness to supervise children effectively and ensure safety in active environments.

Duties

Daily Program Delivery & Expectations

• Plan and facilitate age-appropriate sports, games, and physical activity sessions focused on skill development, teamwork, and fun.
• Lead pre-designed and themed activities in art, STEM, sports, games, and movement.
• Support and engage with participants during homework help, snack time, and structured activities.
• Adapt lessons to accommodate various skill levels and ensure full participation.
• Promote sportsmanship, resilience, and a growth mindset through consistent encouragement and positive reinforcement.

Engagement & Relationship Building

• Build meaningful relationships with participants, demonstrating care, patience, and enthusiasm.
• Encourage all youth, including those less confident or reluctant, to engage and feel included.
• Serve as a positive role model, reinforcing respect, empathy, and fair play.
• Use positive reinforcement and positive language at all times when engaging with the students.

Safety & Supervision

• Ensure a safe and structured environment by actively monitoring participants, equipment, and facilities.
• Respond appropriately to injuries, behavioral challenges, or conflicts, following organizational policies.
• Maintain awareness of emergency procedures and act quickly when needed.

Team Collaboration & Communication

• Work closely with site directors, other coaches, and program staff to ensure quality programming.
• Communicate effectively about participant progress, incidents, or program needs.
• Attend required trainings, team meetings, and performance check-ins.

Professionalism & Representation

• Arrive prepared, on time, and ready to actively engage with youth.
  • Lateness and absences will be tracked through our call out policy
  • Excessive tardiness and absences could result in reduced schedules or more.
• Be prepared in proper uniform for every day of program.
  • Company shirt or sweater (log visible at all times)
  • Sneakers / Close-Toed walking shoes
    • No Crocs or sandals
  • Athletic shorts or sweatpants
• Uphold the organization’s mission and values both in and out of the program.
• Demonstrate integrity, reliability, and a strong work ethic.