Job Description for a Varsity Basketball Coach

A varsity basketball coach is responsible for overseeing all aspects of a school's varsity basketball program, a job that requires teaching players skills, making travel arrangements for away games, and working with assistant coaches, among other tasks. As a varsity basketball coach it is important to understand the position because the world of sports is changing, thus leaving head coaches susceptible to criticism from parents and administrators.

  1. Experience

    • A varsity basketball coach will need experience as an assistant coach. Most varsity jobs will require a minimum of three to five years assistant coaching experience and some varsity basketball coaching jobs at bigger schools will require two or more years of head coaching experience. In addition to experience coaching, it is helpful to have experience working different basketball camps and to have head coaching experience at the AAU level.

    Qualifications

    • It is preferable if a varsity basketball coach has a bachelor's degree, however, a master's degree is ideal. There are situations where the right combination of experience will supersede a degree. In addition to education, a varsity basketball coach will need to possess good communication skills, both written and oral, the ability to plan ahead several years down the road, and a proven track record of being able to work with parents.

    Duties

    • Varsity basketball coach duties will always include practice and game management, however, the coach may also be responsible for making travel plans for away games, picking out equipment such as uniforms or shoes, and ensuring the safety of every student athlete by becoming certified in CPR and first aid.

    Compensation

    • The compensation for a varsity basketball coach can vary greatly depending on the level you are coaching at and the type of school. Most small high schools will pay their varsity basketball coach a small stipend to cover nominal expenses such as gas. Bigger high schools may pay their varsity basketball coaches a much larger stipend as well as offer a full-time job in the school building. These jobs include the stipend, a full-time salary, as well as benefits. Similarly, many small colleges have varsity basketball coaches that are part-time and many large colleges have full-time varsity basketball coaches.

    Application Process

    • Applying to become a head varsity basketball coach is simple once you have located the job listing. The job listing will tell you exactly where to mail your resume. Varsity basketball jobs will be listed in the local newspapers print and online editions. Keep an eye on the paper to see who has terminated their coach. These schools will be looking for a coach in the near future and you will have the chance to file an application early. If in doubt, sending your resume to the athletic director is always a safe bet as this person will be involved in the hiring process.