Thunder Bay Rowing Club (TBRC) is looking for a full-time Head Coach for the 2025 rowing season. We are a small club that has set ambitious goals for growth with our Vision 2030 Milestones. We have a strong Board of Directors and a roster of dedicated volunteers and stakeholders. We are looking for a coach to grow with us and lead the club in programming at all skill levels but specifically to focus on and grow our competitive programs.
This is a new position responsible for all aspects of practice and competition preparation, recruitment of athletes, and the comprehensive administration of the programs. This is a great opportunity for someone looking to grow their coaching experience with a diverse group of athletes of varying skill levels. It is an ideal position for someone with an entrepreneurial spirit and mindset to grow with us and create a more permanent long-term coaching position.
The TBRC is located on Kam River, at the western head of Lake Superior.The breathtaking scenery and 10+ kilometers of waterways create the best rowing environment in Canada. Thunder Bay is the sunniest city in Eastern Canada, and is known for having affordable living; a thriving food and arts communities; and four-season world class outdoor recreation. Thunder Bay is an ideal place to live, row, and coach.
Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and three references info@thunderbayrowingclub.com.
The Thunder Bay Rowing Club (TBRC) follows the RCA Athlete Development Pathway (LTAD) and supports a safe and fun environment for all athletes. Our goal is to recruit a coach to lead the club in programming at all levels but to focus on and grow our competitive programs (juniors, open, and masters athletes). This position requires a commitment to TBRC’s mission, values and our Vision 2030 Milestones. We are currently seeking a dedicated and experienced Head Coach to join our team.
Head Coach Position Summary
The Head Coach shall be responsible for the day-to-day operations of
the Club, reporting directly to the club’s Board of Directors and its committees.
This position is responsible for the club’s operations, coaching, event planning and maximizing overall member satisfaction. The position is full time (40 hours per week) for a 6 month period with potential to extend.
With the support of our Board and volunteers, the Head Coach is responsible for overseeing the development, training, and success of our competitive, high school and recreational (including LTR and novice) programs. The on-water programs operate from May to end of October and the club currently has over 100 members across the programs. Practices are currently held during early mornings and evenings, Saturday mornings and some weekends for regattas. The Head Coach will actively participate in TBRC’s community relationship programs, identifying opportunities to recruit and attract athletes to the club.
The rate of pay, dependent on experience, ranges from $3,520 to $5,280 per month based on a 40 hour work week. Hours of work are variable based on the seasonal needs of the program and athletes, but typically include weekday mornings and evenings, and Saturday mornings. The position is offered from late April to late October 2025 at minimum, with potential to start earlier or later in April depending on availability. TBRC endeavours to have a full time, year round coach as soon as our funding allows.
Primary Responsibilities
Plan and coach the competitive rowing programs (April to October)
Plan and oversee coaching of the LTR programs – currently scheduled for evenings and potential weekends in May and June
Plan and oversee coaching of the Novice programs (June-October)
Plan and coach the new high school rowing program/club (April, May and June)
Oversee planning and coaching of the recreational rowing program (June to October)
Lead the day to day club operations
General Responsibilities
Program Development:
Design and implement a comprehensive training program, focusing on both physical conditioning and technical skills.
Develop seasonal training plans, ensuring progression and peak performance during competitive seasons
Coaching and Training:
Foster a positive and supportive team environment
Evaluate individual and team performance, identifying areas for improvement and implementing corrective strategies.
Athlete Development:
Monitor the progress of athletes, tracking performance metrics and adjusting training plans as needed.
Prepare athletes for competition, including race strategy, mental preparation, and technical proficiency.
Assist athletes in setting and achieving personal goals related to rowing and overall athletic development.
Leadership and Mentorship:
Demonstrate integrity, and a strong work ethic guided by TBRC Cultural Values.
Inspire and motivate athletes to reach their full potential, both on and off the water.
Provide guidance to and collaborate with volunteer coaches
Communicate effectively with athletes regarding program expectations, schedules, and performance feedback using iCrew club management system.
Administrative Responsibilities, Equipment, and Scheduling
Assist in organizing and coordinating team logistics, including travel/trailer arrangements, equipment management, and competition schedules.
Maintain accurate records of athlete participation, performance evaluations, and training progress usingiCrew club management system.
Ensure compliance with SafeSport and all TBRC policies and procedures during training and competition.
Ensure that damage and incident reports are filed in a timely manner and are reviewed to determine corrective action.
Club Operations
Serve as the boathouse Manager, performing general upkeep and maintenance of equipment.
Provide monthly reports to the Board summarizing progress on items listed above
Marketing and Communications
Provide quality communications with the club’s Board of Directors, employees, members and volunteers through the existing channels
Engage TBRC membership in projects, initiatives, events and problem-solving
Board & Committee Participation
Serve as an ex-officio member of the Board of Directors (non-voting) and certain committees, providingadvice and recommendations where appropriate
Qualifications
Current Standard First Aid and CPR Certification [WHMIS and Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) is also an asset]
Pleasure Craft Operators Card
RCA Coach certified and/or equivalency
Criminal record check (CRC/Vulnerable Sector Screening ) completed within the last 2 years (can be completed before hiring)
Driver’s license and experience with trailering boats to events is an asset
Competencies
Teamwork – Actively builds teams and encourages open relationships for maximum organizational effectiveness.
Excellent Communication Skills – Communicates efficiently and confidently (verbal and written) with athletes, parents/guardians, coaching team, Board, and TBRC members.
Initiative – Does the right thing at the right time without being asked.
Commitment to Service Excellence – Deliberately identifies and creates opportunities to enhance every individual’s experience.
Commitment to Club Athletes – Commits to meeting individual goals of athletes.
Commitment to for Health and Safety – Acknowledges and understands how to manage and educate others about risk and harm reduction.
Knowledge and Skills to Work with all Sport Streams – understands the different requirements and needs of athletes within Instruction, Community Sport, and Competition streams.
TBRC is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome and encourage applicants of all gender identities, as well as people with disabilities. We will work with you to accommodate your needs in line with the Ontario Human Rights Code, and additionally for those with disabilities, the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act.
The successful applicant should have
A demonstrated love for the sport
Rowing coach certification (existing or in progress, completed by April)
A history of competitive racing or coaching in rowing or another sport
A positive experience from other rowing club(s) and a desire to spread that enthusiasm
Ability to drive programs and work with others in all age groups
Strong written, verbal and interpersonal skills
How to Apply
Please apply with a cover letter and resume to info@thunderbayrowingclub.com. The intake for applications is open so please do not delay with submitting your application. If you’d like to discuss the role before applying, please contact the Club President at vince@thunderbayrowingclub.com