become a TEam Verge coach

Who: Adults with a running or athletic background who are enthusiastic about helping youth develop or advance a love of running.

Verge athletes are people who benefit from a more individualistic approach, who often don’t fit in typical programs or who need to gain some experience before joining typical programs. Verge athletes have varied abilities, communication and learning styles. Coaches should be open to learning and engaging with all. Through our program and coaching, our goal is to also help the runners develop security in themselves and strength in expressing their voices, while increasing social awareness and connection.

Assistant Coaches (volunteer) lead small groups, offer guidance and support, and help modify workouts to athletes’ abilities. Should be able to instruct drills, exercises, and stretches. Ability to run is a plus.
Assistant coaches need to commit to full season, but can coordinate attendance throughout season with other assistant coaches.
Head Coaches (seasonal stipend) lead and manage practices and the team as a whole; offer guidance and support; plan workouts and modify workouts to athletes’ abilities; transport gear; maintain communications with athletes, parents, and volunteers; and mentor teen volunteers.

Ability to run is a plus, but little running is required. Should be able to instruct drills, exercises, and stretches. Should have working understanding of basic exercise physiology and anatomy. Should believe in fundamentals and developmentally appropriate training for long-term development.

Verge is not a competitive club, we focus on all-round development. We do offer competitive opportunities each season (track, XC, 5K’s) and support athletes who desire additional competitive opportunities. If you have specific interests/experience in sprints, distance, or hurdles, that will add benefit for runners with those interests.

There is an element of thinking on your feet in a dynamic environment that is needed and being able to maneuver and orchestrate situations to enhance and maximize the experience for the group and individuals physically, mentally, and socially.

Head Coaches should be able to commit to 1, 2, or 3 practices per week for 10 week seasons. Programs run fall (Sept-Nov), winter (Jan-March), spring (April-June).

Starting as a volunteer assistant coach is a good introduction to determine if head coaching is a fit for you.

*There are adaptive support coaches on site to aid athletes with behavioral or communication challenges and assist you as needed.

Adaptive Support Coaches (paid) - Special educators, BCBA’s, child development specialists, or similar experience in working with people with autism/dev. disabilities to join our team as support to assist individuals with challenges as needed; determine ways to help them have a successful experience; guide volunteers and coaches; communicate with parents. Should be able to run or jog short distances.