Junior Program Head Coach

Position Summary:

Southwestern Yacht Club (SWYC) is seeking a knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and organized Full Time Head Coach to lead our Junior Sailing Race Team. The Head Coach will be responsible for managing and coaching youth sailors in multiple racing classes including Naples Sabots, O’Pen Skiffs, CFJs, Club 420s, and ILCAs. This role focuses on skill development, regatta preparation, and building a fun, competitive, and safe team environment that reflects the club’s values and commitment to youth sailing.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead on-water and classroom coaching for all junior racing fleets (Sabot, O’Pen Skiff, CFJ, C420, ILCA)

• Design and implement seasonal training plans with a focus on skill progression, race strategy, and team-building

• Supervise, schedule, and mentor assistant coaches and volunteers

• Coordinate team logistics including regatta registration, travel, equipment preparation, and communication with families

• Ensure safe operation and maintenance of junior program equipment and coach boats

• Communicate regularly with sailors, parents, and club staff to maintain program alignment and progress

• Foster a positive, inclusive, and sportsmanlike culture across all age groups and skill levels

• Represent Southwestern Yacht Club at regional regattas and interclub events

Preferred Attributes:

• Former competitive sailor (high school, college, or national level)

• Familiarity with Southern California regatta calendar and venues

• Positive, team-oriented attitude and a commitment to youth development

• Strong organizational and time-management skills

Schedule & Compensation:

• 32 hours/week depending on regatta and practice schedules may vary

• Full Benifits (401k, health insurance, PTO and more!)

• Compensation is competitive and commensurate with experience and certifications

• Opportunities for private lessons, clinics, and travel coaching available

Job Requirements:

Education & Certifications:

• US Sailing Level 1 Instructor Certification (Level 2 or 3 strongly preferred)

• Current CPR/First Aid Certification

• SafeSport Certification (or ability to obtain before start date)

• California Boater Card

Experience:

• Minimum of 2 years coaching youth or junior sailing programs

• Prior coaching or competitive experience in one or more of the following fleets:

  • Naples Sabots

  • O’Pen Skiffs

  • CFJs / Club 420s

  • ILCAs (Laser Standard, Radial, 4.7)

• Demonstrated success coaching at local, regional, or national-level regattas

• Experience supervising and mentoring assistant coaches or volunteers

Skills & Attributes:

• Strong knowledge of dinghy sailing, racing rules, and race tactics

• Confident and safe operation of coach boats in a variety of conditions

• Excellent communication skills with sailors, parents, and staff

• Ability to develop age-appropriate training plans and instruction

• Organized, dependable, and capable of managing regatta logistics

• Enthusiastic, team-focused, and committed to fostering a positive, inclusive culture

Availability:

• Must be available for regular weekday afternoon practices and weekend regattas during the racing season

• Flexibility to travel for regattas and occasional off-season clinics or events