OCUA Juniors Coach

Purpose of Position: Help introduce junior aged players (14-18) to the sport of ultimate emphasizing skill development and progression with the potential of joining the competitive juniors program.

Coaches must have a desire to work with junior aged players (14-18) and must have a strong rule knowledge base and technical skill set. Players at the junior level will be made up of those being introduced to the sport for the first time and those graduating from the youth level program (9-13). Coaches will be working with players who enjoy ultimate and wish to one day continue playing as adults and players interested in pursuing opportunities to play youth and adult competitive level ultimate.

Functional Responsibilities/Job Description:

• Provide the next level of coaching for junior players ages 14-18 emphasizing skill development and the opportunity to play at the competitive level while still maintaining the fun and spirit of the game.
• Provide structure, organization, and leadership to team and for all the players on the team.
• Lead the team in functional and progressional drills from a coaching plan (coach will be asked for their input) for improved skill and strategy development and better game understanding.
• Coach juniors to introduce the sport and promote skill development through:

• Explanation and demonstration of rules and game strategy.
• Integrate drills to simulate game situations for stronger understanding.
• Maintain enthusiasm on the sidelines during games, providing feedback and support for improved understanding and skill development.

Qualifications:

• Interest in working with youth and experience with the age group of 14-18.
• Interest in helping players pursue a desire to play ultimate at a more competitive level (competitive juniors program)and to make ultimate an ongoing recreational past time.
• The ability to translate competitive level skills and knowledge to a manner that will motivate and teach the 14-18 aged junior level player in a conducive way.
• Have a competitive or IID/IAD level background with strong rules knowledge and skill base including all kinds of throws and understanding of game strategy.
• Patient, a good communicator, and understands the different needs of players who are learning the game to those that have a desire to play at the next level
• Per activities involved with age groups in the vulnerable sector, coaches are required to complete a Criminal Reference Check.

Best Person For Position: Upper tier level player, potentially with competitive level experience, who meets the qualifications above and is interested in working with youth.

Length of Commitment: The length of the season that the team plays; opportunities for coaches are available in 2 seasons of play.

• Summer; May-August (13 weeks)
• Fall; Mid September-October (6 weeks)

Time Commitment: Maximum time per week 2 hours (additional time for preparation at the discretion of the coach)

Benefits of Volunteering: Satisfaction of cultivating the interest in ultimate in the next generation of players and sharing the importance of the spirit and sportsmanship of ultimate. The importance of instilling important sporting and life values of character-building, integrity, etc.

Coaches will also have the opportunity to begin their National Coaching Certification Program specifically for ultimate and will also receive their first aid and CPR certification.

Additional Comments:
The juniors program is essential to the continued growth of ultimate in Ottawa. The juniors program will provide a place for players to continue playing after they finish in the youth program as well as for players playing for the first time. The juniors program will provide both a foundation for the competitive youth program, and by extension adult competitive programs, and as a way for players to transition into adult leagues and continuing to play ultimate as a recreational past time.

If you are interested in volunteering for this position or have questions please CLICK HERE