WestConn is a Division III school and a member of the National Collegiate Athletic Associations (NCAA). The Women’s Ice Hockey program, along with the other 21 intercollegiate athletic programs, are members of the Litte East Conference (LEC), while the football program is a member of the Landmark Conference. The University belongs to conferences and associations appropriate to the specific athletic activity program.Additional information about the department may be found at https://westconnathletics.com. After operating one year as a club program, this is a new program that will compete at the NCAA level in 2026-2027, which is parallel to when the LEC will sponsor the sport championship. Information on the University may be found at https://www.wcsu.edu.
Position Summary: Responsibilitiesinclude, but are not limited to, all aspects of developing a new program and sustaining a women’s ice hockey program that desires to be highly competitive; Providing direction, coordination, and instruction to the WestConn ice hockey team; Specific and defined recruitment and retention of high-quality prospective student-athletes; Supervising assistant coaches; Ensuring compliance with NCAA, LEC, and University policies; Monitor and assisting team members in academic, disciplinary, and personal matters; Assisting with program promotion and marketing; Representing the Athletic Department at professional, civic, charity, and alumni events; Budget management and fundraising leadership are also required. Candidates must demonstrate a proven aptitude for coaching as illustrated by a strong work ethic, organizational skills, computer skills, and the ability to interact professionally within the department, the campus, and the community.
Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree is required; Master’s degree preferred. A minimum of three (3) years of successful coaching experience at the collegiate level, preferably at least two (2) years’ experience as a head coach. Candidates should have a demonstrated ability to recruit, retain, train, and develop student-athletes. Knowledge of NCAA rules and regulations and an understanding of, and a commitment to, the Division III student-athlete philosophy is essential. Extensive computer skills required, as is the ability to use Microsoft Office and sport-specific and budget software. Excellent communication skills are also important to work effectively with diverse populations, including students, administrators, faculty, and alumni. The ability to adhere to the NCAA, LEC, University, and Athletics department policies and rules and regulations is required. The Head Coach will work within the framework of the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics administration and coaches and is expected to communicate effectively with students, faculty, administration, staff, and alumni. Must be or able to be certified in First Aid, AED, and CPR.
A candidate who does not meet the above standards may also be appointed provided the candidate has credentials and/or experience substantially comparable to the above listed experience.
WestConn is particularly interested in applicants who have experience working with students from different backgrounds and a demonstrated commitment to improving access to higher education for first-generation and under-represented groups. The successful candidate is expected to value and encourage all forms of diversity, including neurodiversity.
Salary & Benefits: The hiring salary range is $73,912 – $86,231 and is commensurate with candidates' experience. WestConn offers a comprehensive benefits package. Additional information on benefits can be found at www.wcsu.edu/hr/benefits/. Please note: WCSU is unable to sponsor applicants for work visas at this time. Applicants must currently be authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.
Application Process: Interested candidates must submit a letter of application which outlines interest in, and qualifications for the position; a current resume; and names and contact information for at least three (3) professional references. Questions may be directed to [email protected] referencing Women’s Ice Hockey Head Coach in the subject line.