[Spring 2025] Middle School Flag Football Assistant Coach - East Harlem

As a Middle School Flag Football Assistant Coach at DREAM, your primary responsibilities include facilitating 1-3 practices each week, managing athlete logistics, and supporting recruitment efforts. You will also be in charge of game day strategy, monitoring team behavior, ensuring the physical and emotional safety of all students, and modeling positive sportsmanship at all times.

To qualify for the Middle School Flag Football Assistant Coach position at DREAM, candidates should have a good understanding of the sport's rules and regulations, along with experience working with school-age children. While 2+ years of assistant coaching experience is preferred, previous competitive play at the high school or college level is also a strong asset. CPR/First Aid certification is a plus.

DREAM is committed to the continuous development of its staff, including our Middle School Flag Football Assistant Coaches. We offer training and resources that align with our mission of promoting youth development through sports, ensuring coaches are equipped to foster a positive and impactful playing environment. Support is provided from our experienced Athletics team, allowing for professional growth.

The role of the Middle School Flag Football Assistant Coach at DREAM is crucial for empowering young athletes. By mentoring and coaching students, you contribute significantly to their physical and social-emotional development. Coaches create a safe environment that promotes teamwork, discipline, and personal growth—all key components in helping youth realize their potential both on and off the field.

The compensation for the Middle School Flag Football Assistant Coach at DREAM is competitive, offering $20 per hour for your valuable time and expertise. This role not only provides a chance to earn while doing what you love but also allows you to contribute positively to the community and the lives of the students.

When managing a diverse group of middle school athletes, I focus on cultivating an inclusive team environment. I emphasize communication, understanding each child's unique background and abilities, and fostering teamwork through shared goals. Setting clear expectations and using positive reinforcement helps all players feel valued and motivated.

Incorporating safety protocols while coaching is vital. I ensure that all practices begin with an overview of safety rules, implementation of warm-up routines, and regular checks on equipment. Additionally, I maintain an open dialogue with students about the importance of following safety guidelines and being aware of their surroundings.

My coaching philosophy centers around promoting personal growth and teamwork within sports. This aligns with DREAM's mission as it fosters students' ability to succeed both on and off the field. I prioritize social-emotional learning, encouraging athletes to support each other and develop resilience, which reflects DREAM's values.

When handling behavioral issues, I adopt a proactive approach by implementing positive discipline techniques. I address issues directly but empathetically, promoting constructive conversation with the athlete to understand their perspective. Encouraging accountability and setting an example fosters a respectful team culture.

To motivate middle school athletes, I create engaging practices that involve fun drills and games. I regularly recognize individual and team achievements, providing constructive feedback that emphasizes improvement. Additionally, I incorporate team-building activities to strengthen camaraderie, making practices enjoyable and impactful.

I once coached an athlete who was struggling with confidence. Recognizing this, I adapted my approach by providing one-on-one mentorship alongside regular drills. Together, we set achievable goals, gradually increasing her comfort level. This tailored support led to her improved performance and helped build her self-esteem.

Promoting sportsmanship involves setting clear expectations for behavior and leading by example. I regularly engage in discussions about the importance of respect for all participants, including opponents and officials. Recognizing and rewarding positive sportsmanship behaviors also reinforces this valuable trait within the team.

Planning for an upcoming game involves a combination of strategic preparation and team engagement. I analyze the opponent's strengths and weaknesses while developing practice sessions that focus on necessary skills. Additionally, I ensure all players contribute to game strategy discussions, fostering ownership and commitment to our game plan.

My expertise in flag football includes a thorough understanding of the game’s rules and regulations, as well as various strategies suited for different team dynamics. I stay updated on best practices through continuous learning, adapting my coaching methods to foster effective gameplay, while ensuring that all athletes understand their roles.

I am drawn to coach for DREAM's Flag Football team because of the organization’s commitment to nurturing youth through athletics. I admire how DREAM focuses on both academic and personal growth, and I believe that participating in sports can profoundly influence children's lives. I want to contribute to this mission while fostering a positive and vibrant team culture.