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Head Softball Coach

Department of Intercollegiate Athletics

Division: NCAA Division II | Conference: CIAA

Position Type: Full-Time, 12-Month | FLSA Status: Exempt

Reports To: Director of Athletics

POSITION SUMMARY

Claflin University invites applications for the position of Head Softball Coach. Reporting directly to the Director of Athletics, the Head Coach is responsible for the comprehensive leadership and administration of a competitive NCAA Division II softball program. This is a full-time, 12-month exempt position. The successful candidate will demonstrate a strong commitment to student-athlete academic success, personal development, and competitive excellence within the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) and the broader NCAA Division II landscape.

ABOUT CLAFLIN UNIVERSITY

Founded in 1869, Claflin University is a private, historically Black university (HBCU) affiliated with the United Methodist Church and located in Orangeburg, South Carolina. Claflin is consistently recognized as one of the top liberal arts HBCUs in the nation and is dedicated to academic excellence, community engagement, and the holistic development of its students. The University fields 14 intercollegiate athletic programs competing at the NCAA Division II level as members of the CIAA.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead, organize, and direct all aspects of the Softball program, including practice planning, game-day coaching, and strategic development.
• Recruit qualified and academically eligible student-athletes who align with the University's mission, values, and competitive goals.
• Monitor and support student-athlete academic progress; maintain graduation rates consistent with or exceeding NCAA and institutional standards.
• Manage all aspects of program operations including budget administration, scheduling, equipment procurement, and facility coordination.
• Ensure full compliance with all NCAA Division II, CIAA, and Claflin University rules, regulations, and policies.
• Develop, implement, and oversee comprehensive strength and conditioning, skill development, and game preparation programs.
• Hire, supervise, and evaluate assistant coaching staff and applicable graduate assistants.
• Foster a culture of integrity, accountability, sportsmanship, and respect among student-athletes and staff.
• Cultivate relationships with alumni, boosters, community stakeholders, and high school/junior college coaches to support program growth.
• Collaborate with the Athletics Department on fundraising, marketing, and community engagement initiatives.
• Maintain current knowledge of NCAA Division II rules and complete all required compliance training.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Athletics.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university required.
• Minimum of three (3) years of collegiate coaching experience at the NCAA or NAIA level.
• Demonstrated success in recruiting student-athletes at the collegiate level.
• Knowledge of and commitment to full compliance with NCAA rules and regulations.
• Valid driver's license and the ability to operate a motor vehicle.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Master's degree from an accredited institution.
• Head coaching experience at the NCAA Division II level or higher.
• Prior coaching experience within the Peachbelt or at an HBCU institution.
• Proven track record of developing student-athletes athletically and academically.
• Experience with budget management and fundraising within an athletic department.
• Strong network within amateur, collegiate, and professional softball communities.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Advanced knowledge of softball strategy, skill development techniques, and player evaluation.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and motivational skills to effectively lead student-athletes, staff, and stakeholders.
• Strong organizational and administrative skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Demonstrated commitment to student-athlete welfare, academic success, and graduation.
• High standard of ethics, integrity, and professional conduct.
• Proficiency in relevant coaching technology, video analysis software, and recruiting platforms.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

This position requires regular outdoor activity including extended periods of standing, walking, bending, and the ability to demonstrate softball skills and techniques. The incumbent must be able to work in varying weather conditions and travel domestically for recruiting and competition.