Basketball Program Manager

Job Summary

Free Play for Kids seeks a dedicated and dynamic candidate to join our team as a Basketball Program Manager on a seasonal basis from February to July. In this position, the Basketball Program Manager will be responsible for overseeing the planning, development, and execution of Basketball programs within an organization. This position requires strong leadership, organizational skills, and a passion for promoting the sport of Basketball in a fun and supportive environment.

The ideal candidate will also collaborate closely with staff, coaches, and community partners to ensure the program's success and growth. This is an exciting opportunity to make a positive impact on youth development through sports.

Education & Qualifications:

  • A degree or diploma in Sports Management, Recreation, Physical Education, or a related field (preferred).

  • Prior experience in basketball program coordination.

  • Strong understanding of basketball including rules, strategies, and coaching techniques.

  • Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.

  • Valid driver’s license with a reliable vehicle.

  • Standard First Aid Certification and CPR training or ability to obtain quickly.

  • Clear up-to-date Criminal and Vulnerable Sector check or ability to obtain quickly.

Key Responsibilities:

Operational tasks: (60% of the role)

  • Developing and implementing basketball programs, including recreational and competitive teams, academies, leagues, camps, and special events.

  • Creating a sustainable pathway for the internal development and progression of athletes and coaches with a focus on providing equitable access to basketball opportunities.

  • Registering athletes both within Free Play and with external leagues as needed.

  • Creating and maintaining a schedule of activities, practices, and games.

  • Stepping in when needed to fill staffing holes in programming.

  • Designing and updating training materials, lesson plans, and program guides.

  • Managing equipment inventory, ensuring that all gear is in good condition and adequately supplied.

  • Communicating with participants and parents regarding schedules, program updates, and other relevant information.

  • Ensuring compliance with organizational policies and external league rules.

  • Promoting basketball programs through in-person events in accordance with Free Play’s marketing team’s strategies.

  • Developing relationships with local schools, clubs, and community organizations to increase program participation.

  • Implementing changes and improvements to enhance program quality and participant satisfaction.

Staff Management (30% of the role)

  • Hiring and training a team of Head Coaches and Assistant Coaches.

  • Conducting regular performance evaluations and providing ongoing professional development opportunities.

  • Fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.

  • Leading, managing, and supervising your team of Head Coaches, Assistant Coaches, volunteers, and practicum students that are assigned to your region.

  • Ensuring compliance with the usage and implementation of Free Play’s Sport to Life Curriculum.

  • Approving timesheets, time off requests, and schedules.

Programming (10% of the role)

  • Leading practices, games, drills, and activities with the ultimate goal of creating safe, accessible, and inclusive spaces for kids to play, belong, and grow.

  • Crafting structured training sessions for youth between the ages of 9-17 that align with the organization's mission and vision.

  • Relating to youth from diverse communities and acting as a mentor and role model for kids in the program.

  • Leading practices, games, drills, and activities with the ultimate goal of creating safe, accessible, and inclusive spaces for kids to play, belong, and grow.

  • Understanding the power of sport as a tool for social good.

  • Completing additional training and certifications as required through the Free Play training and development programs.

Position Conditions

  • This is a seasonal part-time position from February to July with opportunities for extension depending on performance.

  • This position requires the flexibility to work non-traditional hours, including weekends and evenings, depending on program schedules.

  • The job is performed in schools and recreation settings, but work settings may vary depending on the project. Hybrid working arrangements are available upon request.

Please send a cover letter and resume to jobs@freeplayforkids.com with the job title in the subject line of the email.ct line of the email.

Free Play for Kids is an equal-opportunity employer. Diversity and inclusion are values of Free Play for Kids. Free Play welcomes applications from qualified individuals from all backgrounds.

Free Play for Kids respectfully operates on Treaty 6 territory, a traditional gathering place for diverse Indigenous peoples including the Cree, Blackfoot, Métis, Nakota Sioux, Iroquois, Dene, Ojibway/Saulteaux/Anishinaabe, Inuit, and many others whose histories, languages, and cultures continue to influence our community.