Coach

2 February 20, 2025

This is a living document, which may be updated frequently. 
V1.0 Last Updated: Feb 19, 2025

Reporting Line:
Coaches report directly to the Head Coach and the Board of Directors.

Role Duration:
Annually appointed by the Head Coach and Board of Directors by March 1

Role Overview:
Coaches are responsible for delivering Heʻe Nalu’s programs with an emphasis on safety, skill development, and the promotion of our core values. They ensure the consistent implementation of organizational techniques and policies across all programs while fostering a culture of excellence, teamwork, and sportsmanship.

Qualifications:

  • Comprehensive knowledge of NCOCA race rules, outrigger canoe safety, and paddling techniques, such as stroke mechanics and changes.
  • Proficiency in water safety and emergency procedures.
  • Possess a thorough understanding of tides, currents, and weather conditions.  
  • Demonstrates strong communication, interpersonal, and de-escalation abilities.
  • Well-versed in Heʻe Nalu’s policies and programs.
  • Commitment to upholding the Membership Code of Conduct.

Heʻe Nalu offers a variety of programs, including:

  • Competitive Program: Prepare paddlers for races and other competitive events.
  • Novice Program: Introduce beginners to outrigger canoeing.
  • Recreational Program: Provide opportunities for paddling for fitness and enjoyment.
  • Youth Program: Engage younger paddlers in the sport.

Responsibilities:  

  • Instruction: Teach Heʻe Nalu’s organizational techniques, programs, and policies. While they may introduce different techniques, the organization’s methods should remain the primary focus.
  • Values & Culture: Embody and promote the organization’s core values and culture, actively supporting Heʻe Nalu’s mission and goals.
  • Versatility: Serve all members and programs and move between different programs to support and fill in as needed.
  • Teamwork: Collaborate with fellow coaches to maintain consistency and share best practices across programs.
  • Crew Selection: Outline guidelines for forming and managing crews.
    • Set racing crews a minimum of one week before races, and communicate clearly. 
    • Coordinate crews and equipment with the race secretary and directors.  
  • Mentorship: Mentor junior or assistant coaches, establish succession plans, and foster a supportive coaching community.
  • Program Development: Contribute to developing and improving club programs and initiatives.

Equipment & Facilities: 

  • Care of Equipment: Ensure all equipment is used properly, transported, and stored correctly after use.
  • Incident Reports: Promptly complete and submit an incident report within 24 hours of any incident, detailing any damage, injury, or equipment malfunction.
  • Facility Responsibilities: Report any maintenance issues.

Disciplinary Procedures:  

  • Policy Enforcement: Understand and enforce organizational policies and codes of conduct among paddlers.
  • Conflict Resolution: Encourage open communication and mediation between paddlers to resolve personal conflicts amicably before escalating to formal reporting.
  • Formal Reporting: Report serious issues or policy violations to the Head Coach and Directors when informal resolution is insufficient.

Meetings & Communication:  

  • Attend mandatory meetings with the Head Coach and the Board of Directors at the start and end of each season.  
  • Participate in additional meetings as scheduled by the Head Coach or the Board of Directors to ensure ongoing alignment and good standing.