Albany Academy·City of Albany, New York
The Assistant Prep Hockey Coach supports the Head Coach in planning practices, developing player skills, and executing game strategies. Additionally, the role involves recruiting prospective student-athletes and maintaining strong relationships within the hockey community.
The Assistant Preparatory Hockey Coach supports the Head Preparatory Hockey Coach in developing and sustaining a highly competitive, student-centered hockey program that reflects the mission and values of the school. This individual is committed to fostering athletic excellence, character development, sportsmanship, and academic success while helping student-athletes reach their full potential both on and off the ice. The Assistant Coach also plays a vital role in recruiting talented student-athletes who will contribute positively to the school community and hockey program Essential Responsibilities: Coaching and Player Development Assist the Head Coach in planning and conducting practices, skill development sessions, and game preparation. Coach student-athletes during practices and competitions, providing technical instruction, tactical guidance, and constructive feedback. Support individual player development through ongoing evaluation, goal setting, and mentorship. Assist in implementing team systems, game strategies, and special teams. Promote a culture of accountability, discipline, teamwork, sportsmanship, and respect. Assist with video analysis, opponent scouting, and player evaluations. Support off-ice training, conditioning, and wellness initiatives in collaboration with athletic performance staff. Supervise student-athletes during practices, competitions, team travel, and other program-related activities. Encourage and monitor student-athletes' academic progress, personal growth, and leadership development. Recruiting Partner with the Head Coach to identify, evaluate, and recruit prospective student-athletes who align with the school's academic standards, character expectations, and competitive goals. Develop and maintain strong relationships with junior, youth, prep, AAA and club hockey coaches, advisors, billet families, and other key contacts to expand the program's recruiting network. Attend showcases, tournaments, combines, camps, and other recruiting events to evaluate prospective student-athletes. Build meaningful relationships with prospective students and their families while effectively communicating the school's academic programs, residential experience, athletic philosophy, and community values. Work collaboratively with the Admissions Office throughout the recruitment and enrollment process, including prospect communication, application support, campus visits, and admissions events. Assist in organizing prospect skates, recruiting weekends, open houses, and other events designed to showcase the hockey program and school. Maintain accurate recruiting databases, player evaluations, communication records, and recruiting timelines. Collaborate with the Head Coach to develop annual recruiting strategies that support both the immediate and long-term success of the program. Serve as a positive ambassador for the school and hockey program within the hockey community. Conduct all recruiting activities ethically and in accordance with school policies, league regulations, and applicable governing body guidelines. Program Administration Communicate effectively with student-athletes, families, faculty, staff, and administrators. Assist with equipment management, travel logistics, scheduling, and other operational aspects of the program. Support fundraising, alumni engagement, and community outreach initiatives as requested. Ensure compliance with school policies, league regulations, and safety protocols. Perform additional duties as assigned by the Head Coach, Director of Athletics, or school administration. Required Qualifications: Collegiate hockey playing experience and/or collegiate, junior, or prep school coaching experience preferred. Demonstrated knowledge of player development, game strategy, and practice design. Strong recruiting background or demonstrated ability to build recruiting relationships. Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills. Ability to mentor adolescents in an independent school environment. Clean and valid NYS driver's license and ability to travel extensively during the hockey season. USA Hockey coaching certification (or ability to obtain).
Bachelor's degree. Experience coaching in an independent or boarding school environment. Established recruiting network within junior, prep, AAA, or elite youth hockey. Experience assisting student-athletes with advancement to junior, collegiate, or professional hockey. Familiarity with video analysis and player evaluation software. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: The successful candidate will demonstrate: A passion for independent school education and student success. Exceptional customer service and hospitality skills. Professional judgment, discretion, and confidentiality. Initiative, flexibility, and a collaborative approach to problem-solving. Strong organizational and project management abilities. The ability to communicate effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds. A positive attitude, resilience, and a solutions-oriented mindset. Commitment to Albany Academy's mission, values, and inclusive community. Physical Requirements This position requires extended periods of standing and skating, lifting and carrying hockey equipment, frequent travel, and the flexibility to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and school breaks throughout the hockey season Disclaimer Must be capable of fully performing all duties described herein, either without or with reasonable accommodation Albany Academy reserves the right to alter this job description Employment with Albany Academy is at-will Qualifications
Candidates should have collegiate hockey playing or coaching experience and possess strong organizational and communication skills. A valid NYS driver's license and the ability to obtain USA Hockey coaching certification are required.
Market context
In New York, assistant prep hockey coach roles are usually tied to schools that want staff with collegiate playing or coaching experience and strong day-to-day organization. Competition can be strong because candidates need both on-ice credibility and the ability to communicate clearly with players, families, and head coaches, plus a valid NYS driver’s license and USA Hockey certification eligibility. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this platform to save research time, then confirm your coaching background and certification path before applying.