Part-Time Cross Country and Track & Field Coach

Position Summary

Cornerstone University seeks a Part-Time Cross Country and Track & Field Coach to assist with coaching and developing student-athletes in both cross country and track & field. The ideal candidate will have a passion for both athletic development and spiritual growth, with a desire to foster a Christ-centered environment that encourages students to grow in their faith and compete at a high level. This position will play a vital role in supporting cross-country and track & field programs and will work closely with the Head Coach and Associate Head Coach to implement training plans, recruit new athletes, and support the personal and spiritual development of student-athletes.

Key Responsibilities:

Coaching & Athlete Development

· Assist the Head Coach and Associate Head Coach in planning and leading cross country and track & field practices for both men’s and women’s teams.

· Provide instruction and guidance in running technique, endurance training, speed work, and event-specific development (e.g., sprints, middle distance, long distance, relays).

· Help evaluate athlete performance and design individualized training programs to enhance skill development and competitive readiness.

· Ensure that student-athletes maintain a high level of discipline, focus, and sportsmanship during training and competition.

Spiritual Development & Discipleship

· Mentor student-athletes in their spiritual growth by fostering a Christ-centered team culture.

· Potentially Lead team devotions, prayer time, and encourage student-athletes in their faith journey both on and off the field.

· Integrate biblical principles into coaching practices, providing opportunities for spiritual development within the athletic context.

· Encourage athletes to embody Christian values such as integrity, teamwork, and perseverance, both in competition and in daily life.

Recruitment & Retention

· Assist the Head Coach in identifying, recruiting, and evaluating prospective student-athletes.

· Engage with high school coaches, athletic clubs, and potential recruits to build relationships and promote the university’s academic and athletic offerings.

· Work with current athletes to ensure they have the resources they need to succeed academically, athletically, and spiritually, encouraging a holistic approach to college life.

Administrative & Event Support

· Assist with budgeting, scheduling, travel planning/implementation, compliance, and facility usage.

· Ensure adherence to all university, WHAC, and NAIA rules and regulations.

· Help maintain team communication, including emails, social media, and team meetings.

· Contribute to alumni engagement, fundraising, team-building activities and community outreach initiatives.

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Qualifications

· A personal faith in Jesus Christ, with a commitment to living out and mentoring others in the Christian faith.

· Bachelor’s degree preferred, with relevant coaching experience (at least 1–2 years) in cross country and/or track & field.

· Experience in coaching endurance events (cross country) and/or sprinting and distance events (track and field) preferred.

· Work hours are limited to up to 18 hours/week on average, up to 936 hours/year.

Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.

· Ability to work effectively with a diverse group of student-athletes, coaches, and staff members.

· CPR/AED and First Aid certification or willingness to obtain.

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About Cornerstone University

Cornerstone University is a Christ-centered institution in Grand Rapids, Michigan, committed to the integration of faith and learning. The university prepares students for lives of leadership and service through rigorous academics, athletic competition, and vibrant spiritual development. Cornerstone is a member of the Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference (WHAC) and the NAIA, and we pride ourselves on providing a supportive, faith-driven environment for student-athletes to thrive both in the classroom and in their athletic pursuits.