Description

The Head Men’s and Women’s Fencing Coach at Lafayette College is responsible for leading a Division I athletic program, while upholding the institution’s commitment to academic excellence, athletic integrity, and student-athlete development. This role requires strategic leadership in coaching, recruiting, and program administration, ensuring compliance with NCAA and Patriot League regulations. The head coach plays a pivotal role in fostering a positive team culture, mentoring student-athletes, and promoting success both on and off the field. Additionally, the position involves alumni engagement, community outreach, and collaboration with faculty and administration to support the holistic growth of student-athletes within Lafayette’s rigorous academic environment.

Primary Responsibilities:

Coaching & Player Development

• Develop and implement a competitive strategy and team philosophy that promotes program growth and competes for championships.

• Conduct practices and training sessions that enhance technical skills, teamwork, and competitive excellence.

• Foster leadership, discipline, and strong team culture in line with Lafayette’s traditions.

• Utilize performance analysis, conditioning programs, and injury prevention strategies.

• Hire and supervise volunteer assistant coaches while promoting a positive and development-focused approach.

Academic Support & Compliance

• Ensure student-athletes meet Lafayette’s high academic standards and NCAA eligibility requirements.

• Collaborate with faculty, academic advisors, and campus resources to support student-athlete academic progress.

• Maintain high team GPA and strong graduation rates, aligning with the Patriot League’s emphasis on academic excellence.

Recruiting & Retention

• Identify and recruit high-character student-athletes who fit Lafayette’s rigorous academic and athletic profile.

• Develop relationships with high school coaches, club teams, and prospective students to build a strong recruiting pipeline.

• Work closely with Lafayette’s admissions office to guide recruits through the application and enrollment process.

• Implement retention strategies to ensure student-athletes thrive academically, athletically, and personally at Lafayette.

Program Administration & Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with NCAA, Patriot League, and Lafayette College regulations.

• Collaborate with the Athletic Compliance Office on eligibility, recruitment, and reporting.

• Manage team budget, including travel, equipment, scholarships, and fundraising initiatives.

• Oversee scheduling of games, practices, travel, and postseason play while considering academic schedules.

• Engage with Lafayette’s athletic department leadership to align the program with institutional priorities.

Leadership & Mentorship

• Promote Lafayette College’s core values of engaged learning, community belonging, responsible citizenship, purposeful sustainability, and institutional excellence.

• Serve as a mentor, role model, and advocate for student-athletes.

• Foster an inclusive, disciplined, and positive team culture.

• Ensure student-athletes engage in leadership development opportunities on campus.

• Support mental health and well-being initiatives for student-athletes.

Community & Alumni Engagement

• Represent Lafayette College and the athletic program at alumni events, community initiatives, and media engagements.

• Organize and encourage student-athletes to participate in service projects, aligning with Lafayette’s commitment to civic engagement.

• Develop strong alumni relations and fundraising strategies to support program growth.

• Collaborate with the college’s marketing and communications team to promote the team’s success.

Qualifications

• Previous 3+ years of experience as primary assistant coach, associate head coach, or head coach.

• Bachelor's Degree required. Masters Degree preferred.