Boys Freshman Basketball Head Coach

Oakwood School is an independent, non-sectarian, college-preparatory school for students in preschool through twelfth grade. Students come to Oakwood for an outstanding, balanced academic program led by expert, passionate teachers who foster confident self-expression and self-discovery. Our diverse community, thriving on an expansive campus, provides a home for an extended family of learners. Here, we share our unwavering commitment to a more intentional education.

Oakwood School fosters a learning environment where meaningful peer relationships and strong teacher interactions create a foundation for student growth. We believe that students thrive when they feel supported and encouraged to take risks, embracing a growth mindset as a key pillar of learning. Our educators cultivate a safe and engaging classroom atmosphere that nurtures curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning.

Located in beautiful suburban Morgan Hill, CA, Oakwood offers its faculty convenient access to many amenities, such as shops, restaurants, and a variety of outdoor recreational activities. The world-class resources of Silicon Valley, Stanford University, the University of California-Berkeley, San Francisco, and the entire Bay Area are only a short drive away.

SUMMARY

Under the direction of the Athletic Director, the Boys Freshman Basketball Head Coach  is responsible for leading and managing the Freshman Boys Basketball program, focusing on player development, team strategy, and overall program success.. The coach will foster a positive and respectful team culture rooted in discipline, sportsmanship, and teamwork while developing players so that they might achieve a high level of skill in preparation for junior varsity and varsity level competition. This position requires travel and work in the evenings and weekends.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Player evaluation and development
• Assess players consistently and fairly to determine playing time, roles, and readiness for advancement to junior varsity and varsity
• Focus on developing fundamental basketball skills and game understanding
• Prepare players for junior varsity and varsity level competition
• Team Leadership
• Foster a positive, disciplined, and respectful team culture that emphasizes sportsmanship and teamwork
• Design and execute organized, efficient, and purposeful practices that address individual and team needs
• Develop and implement effective game plans while making in-game adjustments to support player growth and team performance.
• Supervise player behavior and conduct, ensuring a safe environment during practices, games, and travel
• Coordinate with the junior varsity and varsity head coaches to align systems, terminology, and expectations across the basketball program
• Student athlete support and mentorship
• Serve as a positive role model, encouraging personal growth, accountability, and a strong work ethic both on and off the court
• Monitor academic progress and encourage student-athletes to maintain eligibility and prioritize their education
• Maintain clear and respectful communication with players, parents, junior varsity and varsity coaching staff, and school administration and the schools athletic directors.
• Transport players using a school vehicle to all road contests

OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Attend various coaches meetings, trainings, Senior Nights, awards nights, and other events as scheduled
• Embody Oakwood School’s mission and values
• Support and follow school policies and procedures

REQUIREMENTS

• Passion for coaching student athletes
• Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license and clean driving record
• Successfully pass a mandatory background check 
• CPR & First Aid Certification required or ability to be certified
• Ability to motivate, teach, and recruit qualified student-athletes to reach their full potential
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize
• Experience working and communicating with diverse groups of people.
• Ability to act professionally, use discretion, and maintain the highest level of confidentiality 
• Ability to make decisions and handle conflicts 
• Problem-solving skills and creativity

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Required

• Deep understanding of basketball fundamentals, rules, and regulations
• Ability to develop game plans and adjust strategies during games
• Experience with player development and skill progression
• 1-2 years of coaching experience at the high school, competitive club, or collegiate level

Useful/Preferred

• Familiarity with CIF rules and regulations

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

• Heavy work, exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects

• Specific vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

• Ability to assist with athletes of various weights and heights
• Ability to stand for long periods of time, have good mobility skills and be able to walk long distances
• Ability to carry training kits and coolers for long distances
• Use strength to lift items, raising objects from lower to a higher position or moving objects horizontally from position-to-position
• Ability to bend at hips and knees
• Ability to  work in noisy and crowded environments

COMPENSATION & TERM

• This position has an expected stipend of $3,500
• Seasonal employment approximately November through February