Director of Sports and Recreation

Description

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Director of Sports and Recreation supports the daily operations of the YMCA's sports and recreation programs, including youth and adult sports, outdoor recreation, climbing wall activities, skating, rentals, and other recreational offerings. This position helps ensure quality programming, effective staffing, and positive experiences for participants and families.

Under the direction of the Senior Program Director, this position coordinates program schedules, staff and volunteer activities, equipment and facility needs, and other operational responsibilities. The Director provides hands-on leadership, supports program growth, and helps maintain a safe, organized, and welcoming environment consistent with the YMCA's mission and standards.

OUR CULTURE:

Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. 

We are WELCOMING: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. 

We are GENUINE: we value you and embrace your individuality. 

We are HOPEFUL: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. 

We are NURTURING: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. 

We are DETERMINED: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Coordinates daily operations of assigned sports and recreation programs, including but not limited to leagues, clinics, recreational activities, and special events, ensuring programs run safely, efficiently, and consistently with YMCA standards.
2. Assists with recruiting, onboarding, training, scheduling, and supervising part-time staff, coaches, officials, and volunteers. Provides ongoing guidance and support to promote program quality and accountability.
3. Organizes program schedules, team assignments, practices, games, and other activities, coordinating staffing, facility availability, and equipment needs.
4. Supports the development and implementation of new and existing programs, providing feedback and recommendations based on participation, community needs, and operational experience.
5. Maintains program equipment, supplies, and inventory, coordinating purchases, repairs, and facility needs with the Senior Program Director and appropriate departments.
6. Ensures programs follow established safety procedures, YMCA policies, and applicable regulations. Identifies and promptly addresses or reports safety concerns and operational issues.
7. Provides excellent customer service, communicates effectively with participants and families, and assists in resolving program-related questions and concerns.
8. Assists with program registrations, participant records, communications, and other administrative functions necessary for successful program operations.
9. Supports program marketing, community outreach, special events, and YMCA fundraising initiatives as assigned.
10. Monitors program participation, staffing needs, and operational effectiveness, providing updates and recommendations to the Senior Program Director.
11. Maintains an active, hands-on presence during programs, providing direct support to staff and participants and assisting with program activities as needed.
12. Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS

• Associate's or bachelor's degree in recreation, sports management, education, or a related field preferred, or equivalent experience.
• One to three years of experience in sports, recreation, youth programming, or a related field preferred.
• Experience in officiating in any capacity preferred.
• Experience coordinating programs, scheduling activities, and providing direction to staff or volunteers preferred.
• Strong organizational, communication, customer service, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple responsibilities, and collaborate effectively with department leadership and staff.
• Knowledge of recreational sports, program safety, and youth development practices preferred.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends, based on program needs.
• Required YMCA trainings and certifications must be completed and maintained within established timelines, including child abuse prevention, CPR, First Aid, AED, and other applicable certifications.

YMCA LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES

• Advancing Our Mission and Cause
• Building Relationships
• Leading Operations
• Developing and Inspiring People

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Sufficient strength, agility and mobility to perform essential functions and to supervise program activities in a wide variety of indoor locations.
• While performing the duties of this position, the employee works in a variety of office, indoor program, and outdoor recreational environments. The position requires the ability to move throughout YMCA facilities, observe and supervise program activities, use standard office technology, and occasionally lift or move program equipment.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

BENEFITS

Eligible full-time employees receive a benefits package that includes health insurance, generous paid time off (PTO), and an 8% fully funded YMCA retirement contribution upon meeting eligibility requirements. 

DISCLAIMERS:

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed and is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or qualifications. Responsibilities may change based on organizational needs.

The Edwardsville YMCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination and harassment. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.