About this role
Middle School Cheer Head Coach
Winter 2026
University School of Nashville seeks a Middle School Cheer Head Coach for the 2026–2027 academic year. The goal of the school’s athletics department is to create a positive environment that reflects transformational coaching. The position calls for excellent teamwork with colleagues and incorporates best practices into a growth-oriented coaching style in a K–12 school environment.
The ideal candidate will have experience coaching cheerleading and developing student-athletes in a supportive, team-oriented environment. They should align with the school’s values and mission of fostering excellent educational practices while helping each student reach their athletic potential. The Head Coach will lead the Middle School Cheerleading program, emphasizing skill development, teamwork, sportsmanship, school spirit, and a positive team culture.
The cheerleading season runs from November 23, 2026, through February 12, 2027. The Head Coach will work collaboratively with the Middle School Athletic Director to establish program goals, coordinate schedules, organize practices, and prepare student-athletes to support USN athletic events and designated school functions.
Specific Responsibilities:
- Lead, organize, and oversee the USN Middle School Cheerleading program.
- Develop and implement structured practice plans that promote individual skill development, team cohesion, and overall program growth.
- Collaborate with the Middle School Athletic Director to establish program goals, schedules, and expectations.
- Plan and lead developmentally appropriate practices that meet the needs and abilities of middle school student-athletes.
- Develop cheer routines, chants, and other material appropriate for middle school student-athletes and designated school events.
- Foster a positive team culture that emphasizes sportsmanship, teamwork, leadership, school spirit, and respect.
- Prepare the cheerleading team to support USN athletic events and designated school functions.
- Maintain consistent, professional, and timely communication with student-athletes, families, school administrators, and athletic department staff.
- Supervise student-athletes during practices, games, performances, and other assigned team activities.
- Prioritize the health and safety of student-athletes and follow all applicable safety procedures and protocols.
- Manage cheerleading equipment and uniforms responsibly, maintaining an inventory and communicating supply needs as appropriate.
- Apply developmentally appropriate coaching methods that encourage participation, confidence, and individual growth.
- Attend meetings and fulfill administrative responsibilities as required by the Athletic Department.
- Comply with all USN policies, procedures, and expectations for employees and coaches.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Education Requirements:
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Additional education or relevant training in cheerleading, athletics, coaching, or youth development preferred.
Experience and Competencies:
- Previous cheerleading experience required; coaching experience preferred.
- Experience working with middle school students or other youth athletic programs preferred.
- Knowledge of cheerleading fundamentals, routine development, and appropriate safety practices.
- Ability to create an inclusive, supportive, and team-oriented environment for student-athletes.
Skills and Abilities:
- Professional, dependable, and organized, with integrity, enthusiasm, and a positive attitude.
- Strong oral and written communication skills.
- Ability to motivate student-athletes and promote teamwork, sportsmanship, and school spirit.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues, families, and other members of the USN community.
- Ability to exercise sound judgment and maintain appropriate supervision of student-athletes.
- Eagerness to learn, adaptability, and commitment to personal and professional growth.
- Ability to work independently, demonstrate initiative, and maintain confidentiality.