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Sports Performance Coach Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

... performances and coaching. * Participate in Schools Event (i.e., Awards Programs, Pep Assemblies, Athletic Boosters Meetings, etc). * Show physical vitality and enthusiasm for the sport and use good ...

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Sports Performance Coach information

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How much do sports performance coach jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for sports performance coach in Indiana is $26.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.68 and $30.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a sports performance coach?

A Sports Performance Coach is a professional who helps athletes improve their physical abilities, mental focus, and overall performance in their sport. They design and implement training programs tailored to each athlete’s goals, often focusing on strength, speed, agility, and injury prevention. These coaches may also work with teams or individuals on nutrition, recovery strategies, and mental skills to optimize performance. Sports Performance Coaches typically collaborate with other professionals, such as athletic trainers and physical therapists, to ensure comprehensive support for athletes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sports performance coach, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sports Performance Coach, you need a strong background in exercise science, biomechanics, and program design, often supported by a degree in kinesiology and certifications like CSCS. Familiarity with performance tracking software, wearable fitness technology, and strength and conditioning equipment is typically required. Excellent communication, motivational skills, and the ability to build rapport with athletes help coaches foster trust and maximize results. These skills ensure athletes achieve peak performance safely and effectively while maintaining motivation and focus.

What are some common challenges sports performance coaches face when working with diverse athletes, and how can they overcome them?

Sports Performance Coaches often work with athletes from various backgrounds, sports, and skill levels, which can present challenges in communication, motivation, and program customization. Successfully navigating these differences requires strong interpersonal skills, adaptability, and a commitment to ongoing education. Coaches can overcome these challenges by building trusting relationships, actively listening to athletes' needs, and staying up to date with the latest training methodologies, ensuring programs are tailored to each athlete's unique goals and abilities.

What is the difference between Sports Performance Coach vs Personal Trainer?

AspectSports Performance CoachPersonal Trainer
CertificationsCSCS, NSCA, NASM PES or CESACE, NASM, ISSA, NASM CPT
Work EnvironmentSports teams, athletic facilities, training centersGyms, fitness centers, private clients
Industry UsageSports teams, collegiate and professional athleticsGeneral fitness, weight loss, health improvement
FocusEnhancing athletic performance, injury preventionImproving overall fitness, weight management

The main difference between a Sports Performance Coach and a Personal Trainer lies in their focus and work environment. Sports Performance Coaches primarily work with athletes to improve athletic skills and prevent injuries, often within sports teams or specialized training centers. Personal Trainers serve a broader client base, focusing on general fitness, weight loss, and health goals in gyms or private settings. Both roles require certifications, but their target populations and objectives differ significantly.

Are sports performance coaches worth it?

Sports performance coaches are valuable for athletes seeking to improve strength, agility, and overall athletic ability through specialized training, often involving assessments, personalized programs, and coaching certifications. Their expertise can help prevent injuries and optimize performance, making them a worthwhile investment for athletes at various levels.

How do you become a sports performance coach?

To become a sports performance coach, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related field, along with certifications such as the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) or NSCA certification. Gaining experience through internships or working with athletes, developing strong communication and coaching skills, and staying updated on training techniques are also important steps in the career path.

What qualifications do I need to be a sports performance coach?

A sports performance coach typically needs a bachelor's degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related field. Certification from organizations such as the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) or the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) is often required or preferred, along with knowledge of training techniques, injury prevention, and athlete development.

What are the most commonly searched types of Sports Performance Coach jobs in Indiana?

The most popular types of Sports Performance Coach jobs in Indiana are:

What are popular job titles related to Sports Performance Coach jobs in Indiana?

For Sports Performance Coach jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Sports Performance Coach jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Sports Performance Coach job openings:

Infographic showing various Sports Performance Coach job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,384 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Assistant Athletic Director - Head Athletic Trainer

Valparaiso University

Valparaiso, IN

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Position Description:

Valparaiso University seeks a Head Athletic Trainer to lead the Sports Medicine Department. This position provides strategic leadership and oversight of all sports medicine services, ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of student-athletes competing in 19 varsity sports.
The Head Athletic Trainer is responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive sports medicine policies and procedures, supervising athletic training staff, coordinating healthcare services with team physicians and other medical providers, and fostering a collaborative approach to student-athlete care. This position serves as a key member of the Athletics leadership team.

Major Responsibilities:

  • Sports Medicine Leadership
    • Provide leadership and strategic direction for the Valparaiso University Sports Medicine Department.
    • Develop and implement policies, procedures, and best practices that promote the health and safety of student-athletes.
    • Ensure consistent delivery of high-quality sports medicine services across all varsity programs.
    • Coordinate athletic training coverage for practices, competitions, camps, and postseason events.
    • Maintain and regularly review emergency action plans for all athletics venues.
  • Student-Athlete Healthcare 
    • Prevent, evaluate, treat, and rehabilitate athletic injuries and illnesses.
    • Coordinate pre-participation physical examinations and medical clearances.
    • Develop individualized rehabilitation and return-to-play programs in consultation with team physicians and sport performance staff.
    • Monitor student-athlete health and wellness while promoting injury prevention strategies.
    • Provide emergency medical care during practices and competitions.
  • Medical Administration 
    • Oversee the department's electronic medical records system, including Healthy Roster, ensuring accurate, timely, and confidential documentation.
    • Coordinate physician clinics and referrals to medical specialists.
    • Maintain compliance with HIPAA, OSHA, NCAA, conference, and university healthcare standards.
    • Ensure proper documentation of injuries, treatments, rehabilitation progress, and medical clearances.
  • Supervision and Staff Development 
    • Recruit, supervise, mentor, and evaluate assistant athletic trainers, interns, and student employees.
    • Foster professional development and continuing education opportunities for sports medicine staff.
  • Collaboration 
    • Work collaboratively with team physicians, sports performance personnel, nutrition services, counseling services, compliance, academic services, coaching staffs, and university administration.
    • Participate in departmental leadership meetings and university committees as assigned.
    • Serve as a resource to coaches regarding injury management, return-to-play decisions, and student-athlete health initiatives.
  •  Budget and Equipment Management
    • Manage the annual Sports Medicine operating budget.
    • Oversee purchasing, inventory, and maintenance of athletic training equipment and medical supplies.
  • Compliance and Risk Management 
    • Ensure departmental compliance with NCAA legislation, conference policies, university policies, and applicable state and federal regulations.
    • Oversee concussion management, environmental safety protocols, and other NCAA health and safety initiatives.
    • Maintain required certifications, licensure, and departmental accreditation standards.
  • Other Responsibilities 
    • Travel with athletic teams as assigned.
    • Support departmental initiatives that enhance the student-athlete experience.
    • Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Athletics and Recreational Sports

Required Knowledge and Skills:

  • Master's degree in Athletic Training
  • Certification by the Board of Certification (BOC).
  • Current eligibility for athletic training licensure in the State of Indiana.
  • Current CPR, AED, and First Aid certifications.
  • Minimum of five years of collegiate athletic training experience, with progressive leadership responsibilities.
  • Demonstrated supervisory experience.
  • Experience utilizing electronic medical records systems, preferably Healthy Roster or similar software.
  • Strong organizational, leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Other Qualifications:

  • Master's degree in Athletic Training.
  • Experience leading a Division I sports medicine program.
  • Knowledge of NCAA Division I health and safety initiatives and best practices.

Additional Information

  • Comprehensive knowledge of athletic injury prevention, evaluation, treatment, rehabilitation, and emergency medical procedures.
  • Strong understanding of NCAA regulations, sports medicine standards, and risk management practices.
  • Excellent leadership and staff management skills.
  • Outstanding organizational and communication abilities.
  • Ability to build trust with student-athletes, coaches, physicians, and campus partners.
  • Commitment to providing exceptional healthcare while supporting the University's mission of excellence in academics, athletics, and character development.


All offers of employment with Valparaiso University are contingent upon the clear results of a thorough background check. Background checks may include criminal history, motor vehicle reports, prior employment verification, and personal/professional references. If applicable to the position, they will also include credit history. Background checks will be conducted on all final candidates for employment.

To be considered for this position, you must upload:

Cover letter

Resume

List of 3 professional references

Answer all application questions

 

Please address the cover letter to:

Merce Poindexter, Sr. Associate Athletic Director for Student-Athlete Welfare & Compliance

Valparaiso University