Role Summary
The Head Coach leads the formation and competitive preparation of Team USA Hockey ID (ages 18+, mixed gender) for the 2026 Hockey ID World Cup. The coach is responsible for establishing a high-performance (relative to the competitive landscape), athlete-centered environment that embodies The USA Way and the American Development Model (ADM), while ensuring safe, inclusive participation for athletes with intellectual disabilities. The role includes talent identification, tryout and training design, roster selection (with staff input), match preparation, and post-match analysis.  

The successful candidate will become part of history as USA Field Hockey’s 1st ever Head Coach for the 1st ever US Hockey ID National Team for the 1st ever FIH Hockey ID World Cup.   

Duties & Responsibilities
·         Culture & Standards: model “The USA Way” (inclusion, respect, integrity, teamwork, improvement) and a positive, athlete-first environment —and maintain SafeSport-aligned practices.
·         ADM-Driven Coaching: Plan and deliver sessions using ability-appropriate progressions, small-sided games, clear outcomes, and holistic development (the “6 C’s”: Competence, Confidence, Connection, Character, Caring, Creativity) which fit the athlete ability.
·         High-Performance Environment: Introduce and develop technical/tactical skills, competition routines, and supporting disciplines (psychology, nutrition, recovery) as appropriate for the athletes within Hockey ID.
·         Selection & Pathway: Design/lead accessible tryouts; evaluate athletes with consistent criteria; collaborate with USA Field Hockey staff on selections and next-step development.
·         Performance Monitoring: Track individual/team performance, maintain data, and provide constructive feedback to athletes and families as the athletes grow in their sport.
·         Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Work closely with assistant coaches, athletic trainer, team manager, and communications for integrated support and messaging for the worldwide event.
·         Representation: Serve as a positive ambassador for USA Field Hockey’s Hockey ID Al Starz team with media, partners, and at clinics/activations.

Minimum Qualifications (Must-Have)
·         USA Field Hockey Member Coach in good standing.
·         Current SafeSport training and background screen (or able to complete upon appointment).
·         3+ years of field hockey coaching (scholastic/club/college/adult) with a demonstrable athlete-centered approach.
·         Strong communication skills and the ability to manage individual differences and group dynamics with calm and poise.
·         Experience in a high-performance venue or competition environment with appropriate expectation management and leadership for athletes, families and programs.
·         Ability to adapt coaching for athletes with intellectual disabilities (training provided).
·         Enthusiasm for the sport of hockey and a core belief in the benefit of team sports for personal human development.
·         Valid passport for international travel (or ability to obtain promptly).

Preferred Qualifications
·         International playing or coaching experience.
·         USAFH Level 2+ coach education.
·         Experience in para/adaptive sport (Hockey ID, Special Olympics, etc.) or relevant professional experience within or alongside the disability community.
·         Experience with High Performance environments and expectations

Skills 
·         Excellent observational, analytical, and simplified, direct feedback skills 
·         Inspiring leadership for adult athletes; professional judgment, discretion, and confidentiality.
·         Strong organizational and management skills; self-motivated and collaborative.
·         Strong interpersonal skills for working with athletes and their families. 
·         Capacity to travel domestically (weekends/occasional holidays) and overseas.

Time Commitment (Estimate)
·         Jan–Apr 2026: 2–4 tryout weekends + virtual planning (≈1 hr/week).
·         Early Summer 2026: 3–4 day training camp.  Potential Friendly game.
·         Aug 19–26, 2026: World Cup travel & competition week.
  (Additional scouting/administration as needed.)
·         Ongoing from appointment: Availability for press and interviews as needed

Compensation
Volunteer role; airfare, lodging, ground transport, and event meals covered. Branded team apparel provided.

How to Apply
Email the following to All Starz Program [email protected] by February 5, 2026:
1.      Resume and USAFH member number
2.      Cover letter outlining your USA Way/ADM coaching philosophy 
3.      A tryout session plan for a mixed-ability Hockey ID group (objectives, progressions, constraints, assessment of learning)
4.      Two professional references

This description is not exhaustive and may evolve with program needs.

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.