Assistant Coach
Assistant Coach, High School Cross Country
ABOUT US:
Pinewood School is a joyful and supportive K-12 community where passionate, accessible educators partner with students and families throughout their educational journey. Our three-campus school offers a balanced, challenging academic program enriched with diverse opportunities for students to explore their talents, build confidence, and develop new skills. Rooted in our historical commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals, Pinewood provides a dynamic learning environment that empowers students to grow in knowledge, character, and leadership.
Nestled in Silicon Valley, Pinewood draws a vibrant student body from the diverse communities of the San Francisco Peninsula and the greater San Jose area. Our students seek intellectual challenges and uphold a high standard of character within our nurturing environment. At Pinewood, students are encouraged to become thoughtful, expressive, and self-aware young people, prepared for success in college and life.
Pinewood’s athletics program is an integral part of our mission to develop well-rounded individuals. Our program emphasizes teamwork, character building, and leadership, offering students the opportunity to grow as athletes and leaders in a supportive, community-focused environment. Coaches at Pinewood inspire students to challenge themselves, both on and off the field, helping them build skills that prepare them for success in sports, academics, and beyond. Approximately 65% of our students participate in after school athletic teams.
POSITION SUMMARY:
Pinewood School is seeking an enthusiastic and dedicated Assistant High School Cross Country Coach for our boys' and girls' cross country teams for the 2026–2027 school year. The season runs from mid-August through early November. We are looking for an individual who is passionate about cross country, enjoys working with student-athletes, and is committed to developing runners' skills while fostering teamwork, sportsmanship, and a positive team culture.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Assist with coaching the High School Boys' and Girls' Cross Country teams.
- Plan, organize, and conduct practices that develop athletes' skills, endurance, and performance.
- Assist in developing and implementing effective training plans and race strategies.
- Motivate and mentor student-athletes to achieve individual and team goals.
- Foster a positive, inclusive, and supportive team environment that emphasizes sportsmanship and character.
- Collaborate with the Head Coach and other members of the coaching staff.
- Work closely with school administration, the strength and conditioning, and athletic training staff.
- Ensure the safety and well-being of all student-athletes at practices, competitions, and team events.
- Attend all scheduled practices, meets, and team functions throughout the season.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
- Demonstrate the physical ability to actively coach and supervise practices and competitions.
- Frequently lift, carry, push, and pull equipment weighing up to 20 pounds.
- Possess visual and auditory acuity necessary to monitor student-athletes and maintain a safe environment.
- Ability to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions and indoors as needed.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Minimum of 1–2 years of experience competing in or coaching cross country at the high school or collegiate level.
- Reliable, organized, and punctual.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues.
- Passion for teaching, mentoring, and developing young athletes.
- Ability to create a positive and inclusive learning environment.
- Availability to work after school, evenings, and occasional weekends for competitions.
- Proficiency with Google Workspace; experience using TeamSnap is preferred.
COMPENSATION:
The Assistant Cross Country Coach stipend ranges from $4,750–$6,500 for the fall season (mid-August through early November). Compensation will be based on coaching experience and qualifications.
HOW TO APPLY:
Please send your resume, a letter outlining your interest and qualifications to: Matt Stimson, Athletic Director, at mstimson@pinewood.edu by August 10, 2026 with the subject line: Assistant Coach, High School Cross Country.