Job Description

About Sacred Heart University

As one of the nation’s largest Catholic universities and among the fastest-growing private doctoral institutions in the U.S., Sacred Heart University is a national leader in shaping higher education for the 21st century. SHU offers more than 100 undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs on its Fairfield, Conn., campus. Sacred Heart also has a campus in Dingle, Ireland, and offers online programs. Nearly 10,000 students attend the University’s nine colleges and schools: College of Arts & Sciences; School of Communication, Media & the Arts; School of Social Work; School of Performing Arts; College of Health Professions; the Isabelle Farrington College of Education & Human Development; the Jack Welch College of Business & Technology; School of Computer Science & Engineering and the Dr. Susan L. Davis, R.N., & Richard J. Henley College of Nursing. Sacred Heart, a Laudato Si’ campus, stands out from other Catholic universities as it was established to be led by the laity. This contemporary Catholic university is rooted in the rich Catholic intellectual tradition and the liberal arts and, at the same time, cultivates students to be forward thinkers who enact change—in their own lives, professions and in their communities. The Princeton Review includes SHU in its Best 391 Colleges: 2026 Edition and Best Business Schools: 2025 Edition. Sacred Heart is home to the award-winning, NPR-affiliate station, WSHU Public Radio; a Division I athletics program and an impressive performing arts program that includes choir, band, dance and theatre. www.sacredheart.edu

View SHU’s Faculty Experts Here

To apply

Qualified candidates are invited to submit a completed application and résumé through the University's online application system. Applications submitted outside of the official Careers at SHU website will not be considered. Applicants should not apply through third-party or external job sites, as such postings may be fraudulent or may misrepresent opportunities that are no longer available at the University. A cover letter or statement of interest is preferred for all staff positions.

Sacred Heart University complies with all federal and state employment laws and regulations. Applicants must be lawfully authorized to work for any employer in the United States. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa for this position.

Position Summary

The Sacred Heart University Department of Club Sports and Recreation is seeking an Assistant Coach for the Men’s Club Rugby team. The Assistant Coach will be responsible for supporting the head coach with duties related to the team. This is a part-time position that will run from September 1st through May 15th of each academic year.

Principal Duties & Responsibilities

• Assist in the development and execution of practice plans, game strategies, and overall team management.
• Focus on the skill development of athletes, offering individual and group instruction tailored to improve performance.
• Aid in identifying and recruiting talented players, attending games, and evaluating potential recruits.
• Help manage the team during games, contribute to strategic decisions, and ensure effective communication among players and coaches.
• Assist with logistical aspects such as scheduling, travel arrangements, equipment management, and compliance with league and school regulations.
• Provide guidance and support to athletes on and off the field, fostering a positive and motivating environment.
• Ensure adherence to safety protocols, support injury prevention and management efforts, and promote overall athlete well-being.
• Facilitate clear and effective communication between players, coaches, and support staff.
• Represent the team in community events, fostering good public relations and building support for the program.
• Other Duties assigned

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Other Attributes

• Minimum of 3 years of coaching experience at the high school, prep, junior, or collegiate level
• Bachelor’s degree preferred
• Must be willing to work nights and weekends as the vast majority of games are Friday-Sunday
• Possesses experience working with diverse staff, including college-age students.
• Must maintain coaching certification or be willing to acquire certification

Unusual Working Conditions

• Nights and weekends will be required.

This job posting provides an overview of the role's general nature and expected tasks. It is not meant to be a comprehensive list of all duties performed. The university reserves the right to modify or reassign job responsibilities at any time. This posting description does not constitute an employment contract, either explicit or implied.

Sacred Heart University is a space that respects and embraces differences, recognizes the unique contributions that individuals can make, and creates a community that maximizes the potential of all faculty and staff. As an equal opportunity employer, we encourage applications from qualified candidates who reflect the wider world in which we live.