coach recruitment

ASSEMBLE A KNOWLEDGEABLE TEAM

• Form a small sub-committee consisting of 3-5 members from your club committee, parents, or club members. They will oversee the coach recruitment process. 

• Seek advice from your district association for guidance. Squash NZ can also provide valuable assistance.

DEFINE YOUR IDEAL COACH

Identify the qualities and qualifications you're seeking in a coach that align with your club's vision, goals, and objectives.

Coach Recruitment Checklist

Create a list of key roles, services, and program types you want the coach to bring to enhance club participation. This list will shape your job advertisement and selection criteria. 

ATTRACT A POOL OF COACHES

• If you're looking for a new coach, advertise the position on relevant platforms, including the Squash New Zealand website, to reach potential coaches and coaching businesses.

• Highlight your club's strengths and what it offers to entice prospective coaches. Encourage applicants to address the criteria and explain why they would be a good fit for your club.

CONDUCT INTERVIEWS

• Review all applications against your selection criteria, including screening, qualifications, and experience.

• Conduct initial off-court interviews with shortlisted coaches and your selection committee. Use this opportunity to assess each candidate's alignment with your club's vision and objectives.

• Ask interview questions linked to the criteria and services descriptions and consider implementing a scoring system to facilitate decision-making.

TIP: Request shortlisted coaches to make a 5–10-minute pitch explaining why their coaching business would provide the best service and create a mutually beneficial partnership. 

ON-COURT EVALUATION

• Consider if you want to conduct an on-court interview to observe candidates in action, particularly if their coaching skills are a key focus.

• Appoint a neutral observer with formal coaching qualifications and ample coaching experience to assess the candidates.

CONTRACTURAL FRAMEWORK

• Define the key responsibilities, terms, fees, and service requirements for both the coach and the club in the club-coach contract.

• Set clear expectations and establish a brief set of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).

TIP: Seek specialist advice and review sample contract schedules to ensure the agreement covers all necessary aspects. 

APPOINT A COACH LIAISON

a. Designate a Coach Liaison, often the President and/or Junior Coordinator, to manage the coach-club relationship.

b. Establish a process for committee members and club members to communicate requests, issues, and feedback to the Coach Liaison.

c. Schedule regular informal catch-up meetings, at least quarterly, to maintain a positive and effective relationship.

ONGOING COMMUNICATION

d. Consider setting up formal meetings throughout the year, such as coaching program reports and annual KPI reviews, to monitor progress.

e. Share meeting minutes and relevant correspondence with the coach.

f. Foster constant communication and support, ensuring both parties fulfil their roles and work together for mutual success.

MAINTAIN OBJECTIVITY

g. Prevent conflicts of interest by not granting coaches governance or formal roles on the committee, especially in executive positions.

h. Invite the coach as an 'invited guest' to committee meetings to provide input without participating in decisions where conflicts may arise.

RENEWAL OR REASSESSMENT

a. Reevaluate the coaching contract at least three months before its expiration.

b. Prioritise contract renewal if the relationship is positive and beneficial to both the club and the coach.

c. Develop a scoring system with the coach sub-committee to assess coaching services in relation to goals and targets.

ANNUAL ASSESSMENT

a. At the end of the fiscal year or during the club's AGM, request the coach to provide an annual report on KPIs, achievements, and challenges.

b. Present the coaching report at a committee meeting, allowing for discussion and improvement suggestions.

ANNUAL PLANNING AND TARGET ADJUSTMENT

a. Collaborate with the coach to revise club and coaching plans and targets annually.

b. Ensure that the coach liaison works closely with the coach to agree on any KPI adjustments for fairness and realism.

By following these steps, your squash club can effectively recruit, manage, and evaluate coaching services, fostering a successful and mutually beneficial partnership with your coach.