Cross Coach

A high school cross country coach is responsible for the technical, administrative, and developmental aspects of a long-distance running program, ensuring compliance with TSSAA regulations.

• Training & Instruction
  :
  Develops and implements individualized training plans focused on endurance, pacing, and terrain strategy.
• Meet Management
  :
  Plans race strategies, organizes team travel, and supervises student-athletes during competitions.
• Administrative Duties
  :
  Manages the program budget, maintains equipment and uniform inventory, and coordinates the meet schedule.
• Athlete Welfare
  :
  Monitors academic eligibility, promotes sportsmanship, and ensures a safe training environment, including injury prevention.
• Recruitment
  :
  Encourages student participation and recruits new talent to the program

• TSSAA Certification
  :
  All coaches must register annually with TSSAA. Non-faculty coaches must complete the NFHS "Fundamentals of Coaching" and "First Aid, Health, and Safety" courses.
• Mandatory Safety Training
  :
  Required annual completion of NFHS courses in Concussion in Sports
  , Sudden Cardiac Arrest
  , and Heat Illness Prevention
  .
• Education
  : A high school diploma or GED is the minimum requirement; however, a bachelor's degree in education or a related field is often preferred for faculty-based roles.
• Certifications
  :
  Current CPR and First Aid certification from an in-person, hands‑on course is mandatory.
• Experience
  :
  Previous experience in cross country or track, either as a coach or a competitive runner, is typically required.