Description

The YMCA of the Suncoast operates swim teams at five branches within our Association that compete collectively as PYP. We are seeking an experienced and mission-driven Head Swim Coach to lead and grow our competitive swim program at the Citrus Branch. This branch, less than ten years old, is located in a rapidly growing community on Florida’s West Coast, approximately 90 minutes north of Tampa.

Our current part-time coaching staff—comprised of dedicated high school teachers and coaches—has built the program to approximately 50 swimmers. The team regularly qualifies athletes for Florida Swimming Age Group and Senior Championships and has produced multiple national-level qualifiers in recent years, including Speedo Sectionals and the program’s first Winter Junior National qualifier this past December. The staff is enthusiastic about collaborating with a full-time Head Coach who can continue to elevate and expand the program.

The Head Swim Coach is responsible for developing swimmers of all ages and abilities, from age group fundamentals through senior-level competitive athletes, while upholding the YMCA’s core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility. The ideal candidate is a strong stroke technician, an effective leader, and a program builder who can grow participation and foster a positive, inclusive, and high-performing team culture.

Requirements

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement comprehensive training plans for age group and senior swimmers aligned with long-term athlete development principles
• Provide high-quality stroke technique instruction across all four strokes, starts, turns, and finishes
• Develop swimmers progressively from foundational skills to advanced competitive performance
• Lead, mentor, and evaluate assistant coaches to ensure consistent coaching standards and YMCA values
• Create a safe, positive, and inclusive team environment that supports character development and sportsmanship
• Grow the swim team through recruitment, retention, and collaboration with YMCA aquatics and youth programs
• Plan and attend practices, swim meets, team events, and YMCA activities
• Communicate effectively with swimmers, parents, and YMCA leadership regarding athlete progress, program goals, and expectations
• Ensure compliance with YMCA policies, Safe Sport requirements, and governing body regulations
• Support YMCA fundraising, community outreach, and program promotion efforts as needed

Qualifications

• Demonstrated expertise in stroke technique instruction and swimmer development
• Proven ability to coach both age group and senior-level swimmers
• Strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills
• Commitment to the YMCA mission and youth development philosophy
• Ability to build and grow a competitive swim program within a community-based setting
• Current or ability to obtain required certifications, including CPR/AED, First Aid, Lifeguard (if required), and USA Swimming credentials

Preferred Experience

• Prior YMCA or community-based swim coaching experience
• Experience leading or managing a swim program or coaching staff
• History of athlete progression and retention across multiple seasons

Compensation and benefits are commensurate with experience and YMCA guidelines.