ATR Coach Position Description

Overview

Our coaches are a  crucial piece of the ATR program. Without them, it is not possible to provide organized team basketball to members of our community. Regardless of your prior experience with the game of basketball, we welcome any individual, who meets the necessary qualifications, to serve as an ATR coach. Prior coaching experience may be helpful, but it is not needed. We provide you with coaching resources to assist you in the process, and we are always available to answer questions or provide insight. If you are interested in coaching, please send an email to hrblackmore@lawndalebaptist.org. 

Qualifications and Expectations

• Is a disciple of Jesus Christ which means the following: 

  • I understand I am a sinner by choice and nature (Romans 3:23), and as a result I deserve eternal separation from God (Romans 6:23a).

  • I understand that although I am a sinner, Christ died for me on the cross so that I may receive the gift of eternal life (Romans 6:23b, Romans 5:8).

  • I believe and trust in Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection, and confess that Jesus is Lord as an outward expression of my faith (Romans 10:9-10).

• Regularly attend a local church. 

• The above criteria is essential, as coaches will be responsible for leading a  brief 5-10 minute devotion during each practice (materials will be provided). 

• Those who do not meet the above qualifications may serve as an assistant coach if interested. 

• Has a desire to serve children and their families. 

• Able to fulfill the necessary time commitment:

  • Kindergarten Division: During the first two weeks prior to the first game, coaches will conduct a one hour practice each week with their team. Once games begin, all practices will take place on Saturdays for a short period prior to the start of the game. Court time with the players on game days will be approximately 75 minutes.

  • 1st-12th Grade Divisions: Coaches will conduct a one hour practice per week, with the practice taking place on the same day and at the same time each week. Typical practice times are 5:30pm, 6:30pm, 7:30pm, or 8:30pm on Mondays, Tuesdays, or Thursdays, (possibly Fridays), with younger teams practicing earlier in the evening, and older teams practicing later in the evening. On game days, younger teams play earlier in the day, and older teams play later in the day or into the evening. 

  • All coaches must spend a brief amount of time each week preparing for the upcoming practice. It is essential that each coach has a written, detailed plan for each practice. Additionally, substitution charts should be filled out each week prior to the upcoming game.

  • Able to attend a preseason meeting/training. 

  • Season Dates 2022 TBD

• Prioritize the needs of each child. This requires the coach to value learning and improvement over competitive success. 

• Follow the league rules accordingly. The rules are designed to accommodate all skill levels and allow for each athlete to play substantial minutes during each game. 

• Teach the game of basketball to the best of your ability. 

• Commit to completing the team devotions at each practice. 

• Make appropriate contacts with parents as necessary. 

• Mannerisms and habits should reflect your personal faith and the mission of the ATR program.