YMCA Gators Head Swim Coach - Decatur IL

Inspire Young Athletes. Build a Stronger Community. Lead with Purpose.

POSITION SUMMARY:

Are you an experienced swim coach passionate about competitive swimming and youth development?

The Decatur Family YMCA, one of the oldest and most impactful nonprofits in the area, is seeking a dedicated and dynamic Swim Team Head Coach to lead our year-round swim competitive swim program. Serving swimmers ages 5–18, from novice to elite levels, our program focuses on helping youth grow both in and out of the pool.

This position supports the YMCA’s mission to strengthen communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. It's a unique opportunity to mentor young swimmers in a supportive, mission-driven environment where your leadership will make a lasting difference.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Reporting to the Aquatic Director, the Head Coach is responsible for implementing and growing our competitive and developmental swim programs in alignment with YMCA philosophy, aquatic guidelines, and USA Swimming standards.

We are both a YMCA and USA Swimming team that competes in both short and long course seasons, host three home meets annually, and attends in- and out-of-state competitions.

You will lead practices, manage coaching staff, oversee meets and clinics, and create a safe, inclusive, and motivating environment for all team members.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement seasonal training plans and practice schedules for all levels.
• Lead age-appropriate practices focused on stroke technique, endurance, and athlete progression.
• Organize team registration, rosters, meet entries, and lineups.
• Supervise, mentor, and evaluate assistant coaches to maintain a unified coaching philosophy.
• Manage swimmer goal-setting, attendance, and performance tracking.
• Plan and attend practices, meets, and team events—including local, regional, and national competitions.
• Oversee administrative tasks including:  approving timesheets, meet registration, coding of expenses, and hiring of assistant coaches. 
• Promote the program via local schools, social media, and YMCA marketing channels.
• Support the Aquatics Department with swim lessons and lifeguard coverage as needed.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, health, and YMCA/USA Swimming standards.
• Support annual campaign activities including acquisition of lane sponsors and other fundraising to support the team.
• Assist with program growth, community outreach, and strategic planning.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• 4+ years of competitive swimming experience
• 2+ years of coaching swim teams
• Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills
• Driver's license and reliable transportation
• Knowledge of YMCA and USA Swimming guidelines
• Experience with Team Unify, Team Manager, or similar platforms
• USA Swimming Registered Coach or ASCA Level 2 preferred
• Certified Pool Operator (or willingness to obtain with YMCA support)
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office

WHAT WE OFFER:

• Competitive pay: $18–$23/hour
• Comprehensive benefits (health, dental, vision)
• Free Family Goodheart YMCA Membership
• Retirement plan with employer contributions after vesting
• Free training and professional development
• A collaborative, inclusive work environment focused on youth and community impact

Resumes accepted through August 12th.  

Join a cause-driven organization where you'll coach more than just swimming—you'll build confidence, discipline, and lifelong skills in every athlete you mentor.

Ready to dive in? Apply today.