University of Strathclyde Boat Club Volunteer Coach

Posted: 26 June 2024

Job Title: Volunteer Coach
Club: University of Strathclyde Boat Club
Contract: Voluntary
Location: Strathclyde University Boat Club, West Boathouse, Glasgow Green, G5 0QD

Job Description:

Applications are invited for the position of Volunteer coaches for various squads and crews within
Strathclyde University Boat Club. These include Senior Men (Performance), Senior Women
(Performance) Novice Women (Beginner) and Novice Men (Beginner).

The coach will be required to manage and deliver coaching services to either one or various crews for
training sessions as well as attending most home and away competitions throughout the academic
year. You will be working with the specific crews to come up with training and working with squads to
improve performance over the year.

At Strathclyde over 2024/25 we are trialling a central training program for all squads, who will be
assisted by a variety of volunteer coaches on and off the water. Some coaches are welcome to focus
on performance crews, whilst others are welcome to assist with recreational and beginner program.
We would welcome a applications from various backgrounds and abilities.

Our club recently finished 14/72 universities at BUCS Regatta 2023. In 2024 we competed in three
beginner A finals, including bronze in the beginner mens quad. We compete at a range of
competitions including BUCS Head, HORR, Scottish Championships and have sent small numbers to
Henley Royal Regatta and the European University Championships, including a EUSA gold in the
Lightweight 1x.

Squad Training takes place mainly at the weekend with occasional strength and conditioning and erg
sessions taking place in the early mornings and evenings. All training is out of the West Boathouse,
Glasgow Green.

Successful coaches will provide a positive and enjoyable coaching experience that harnesses talent
and remains competitive. They will work with squad captains to improve the development of SUBC.

An Example of Training times are outlined below:

Running Academic Year September 2024 - May 2025

On the Water Training
Ergo/Strength and Conditioning Training

Senior Men: 12-14 hours per week
Senior Women: 12-14 hours per week
Novice Men: 6 - 8 hours per week
Novice Women: 6- 8 hours per week

Role Responsibilities:
- Lead coaching sessions at allocated crew and squad training times.
- Be available to travel with the club to most events and competitions.
- Lead seat racing and erg testing where necessary.
- Track progress of the crews and athletes.
- Contribute to the enhancement of the student experience through high quality coaching which
engages, sustains and increases participation.
- Regular evaluation of squad performance.
- Support development of leadership skills particularly within the club committee.
- Respect and champion the rights of every individual to take part in sport.
- Develop relationships with participants based on openness, honesty, mutual trust, and
respect.

Ideal Personal Specifications:
- Minimum of 1 year experience as a coach of a competitive rowing squad.
- Ideally hold valid qualifications to at least UKCC Level 1 or equivalent in the sport, as well as
valid insurance, and keep the Sports Union up to date with copies of all relevant certificates.
- Excellent verbal communication skills.
- A clean driving licence (preferred).
- Valid first aid qualification (preferred).
- An understanding of the university sport landscape.
- Experience in a competitive rowing environment.

Rate of Pay:
- Unfortunately we are not in the financial situation to offer a rate of pay for this role. It is hoped
any candidate would have the right enthusiasm to work as a volunteer with their squad to
improve not only their own skill set but the squads overall development.
- All coaches who wish to work with Strathclyde University Boat Club will be required to
complete a University of Strathclyde Sports Union registration form. As well as familiarising
with both the Code of Conduct and USSU Coaching Pack.

Process:
- If you wish to submit your interest please include the following:
- Coaching Experience
- Why you are enthusiastic about this role
- Confirmation of availability
- Please email interest to Matthew Bell, Club Captain at subc.online@gmail.com