Program Director Athletics

The Program Director / Head of Athletics oversees all athletic programming and the daily flow of activities at camp. This leadership role includes managing a team of approximately seven athletic counselors, designing and implementing sports curricula, and ensuring high-quality instruction across multiple sports. The ideal candidate is a dynamic educator-coach with strong leadership, organizational expertise, and a love for working with boys aged 8–15.

Key Responsibilities

Athletic Programming & Instruction

Develop, organize, and oversee instruction in core sports including:

Baseball, Basketball, Soccer, Volleyball, Flag Football, Street Hockey, Tennis, and more.

Ensure progressive skill development, sportsmanship, safety, and fun in all activities.

Support counselors in lesson planning and maintain consistency in instruction quality.

Leadership & Staff Management

Lead, mentor, and supervise a staff of ~7 athletic counselors.

Conduct pre-season training and provide ongoing coaching support and feedback.

Foster a collaborative, enthusiastic, and professional staff culture.

Daily Scheduling & Program Flow

Create and manage the camp’s daily schedule, balancing athletics, waterfront, wilderness, and cabin life.

Coordinate smooth transitions and timing for all camp activities.

Adapt schedules as needed due to weather or special events, maintaining program excellence.

Camper Experience

Engage directly with campers, promoting participation, character development, and teamwork.

Model Winnebago values: integrity, resilience, kindness, and joyful effort.

Assist with camp events, tournaments, inter-camp games, and special athletic ceremonies.

Qualifications

Required

Demonstrated coaching or athletic program leadership experience.

Strong organizational and time-management skills.

Ability to lead and inspire staff and campers through energy, clarity, and enthusiasm.

Experience working with children or adolescents (ages 8–15).

Hands-on, flexible, and solution-oriented mindset suited to a camp environment.

Preferred

Experience in residential camp, school athletics, or youth development.

Background in multiple sports, physical education, or team management.

Personal Attributes

Charismatic team leader with excellent communication skills.

Passionate about mentoring young people through athletics.

Calm under pressure with strong decision-making abilities.

Creative and adaptable — thrives in a tight-knit, community-focused environment.

Compensation & Benefits

Competitive summer salary

Travel stipend

Room and board included (private or semi-private housing)

All meals and access to camp amenities

Opportunity to join a 100+ year legacy of impactful youth leadership