Leonardtown, Maryland, St. Mary’s Ryken (SMR), a proud member of the nationally respected Washington Catholic Athletic Conference, offers a vibrant and competitive athletic program with 40 teams at the varsity, JV, and freshman levels. Our high school is rooted in the Xaverian values of Compassion, Humility, Simplicity, Trust, and Zeal. At SMR, Athletics is about more than competition—we are committed to developing student-athletes of character who pursue excellence in all areas of life.
SMR seeks a Head Girls Basketball Coach to begin immediately for the 2026–27 season. This leader will guide and inspire student-athletes on and off the court while building a transformational program centered on accountability, growth, and a championship way of life. A bachelor’s degree and relevant coaching experience are required. This is a contract position that includes a stipend. This position may be paired full-time or part-time faculty/staff position, as available, for qualified candidates. WHAT YOU’LL DO
Mission & Program Leadership
Model and advance the St. Mary’s Ryken mission, helping form student-athletes of strong character, faith, and competitive spirit.
Foster a positive, mission-centered team culture that encourages student-athletes to grow academically, athletically, and spiritually.
Inspire student-athletes to pursue excellence in the classroom, in competition, and in service to the community.
Coaching & Player Development
Plan and lead purposeful, high-energy practices that emphasize skill development, basketball IQ, teamwork, and attention to detail during the traditional season and throughout the off-season.
Design and implement a comprehensive player development plan that focuses on individual growth, position-specific skills, and overall team improvement.
Utilize film review and performance analysis to teach the game, reinforce team concepts, and help student-athletes understand how to prepare and compete at a high level.
Collaborate with the Director of Sports Performance to implement a strength and conditioning program that promotes performance, injury prevention, and long-term athletic development.
Monitor student-athlete progress and provide individualized feedback, goal setting, and mentorship throughout the season and off-season.
Support student-athlete success by working closely with the Athletic Academic Advisor to promote strong academic habits, time management, and personal responsibility.
Encourage holistic development by supporting student-athletes in their growth as competitors, students, leaders, and members of the SMR community.
Recruitment and Retention
Recruit and mentor student-athletes who are excited to compete at a high level in the WCAC while representing St. Mary’s Ryken with pride and integrity.
Build and sustain a strong program pipeline by engaging prospective student-athletes and families throughout the admissions process.
Develop meaningful relationships with current players to support retention, leadership development, and long-term program commitment.
Collaborate with the Admissions Office and Athletic Department to identify, evaluate, and attract mission-aligned student-athletes.
Promote the program through outreach, camps, clinics, and community engagement to strengthen interest in SMR basketball.
Maintain consistent communication with players and families to ensure a supportive and connected program experience.
Program Management & Communication
Provide consistent leadership and supervision during all team activities on campus.
Work collaboratively with the Athletic Director to align program goals, scheduling, and team needs with the department’s vision.
Maintain clear, weekly communication with players and families regarding schedules, expectations, and program updates.
Actively participate in athletic department meetings, events, and the broader school community.
Compliance & Student-Athlete Well-Being
Ensure full understanding and implementation of SMR and WCAC policies and procedures.
Manage team rosters in compliance with league reporting requirements.
Communicate and collaborate with Sports Medicine staff to prioritize the health, safety, and well-being of student-athletes.
WHY IT MATTERS
At SMR, athletics are about more than competition. Coaches play a vital role in shaping leaders, teammates, and young people of character. Your leadership will help student-athletes grow in confidence, accountability, resilience, and pride while competing in one of the nation's premier high school athletic conferences.
This role offers the opportunity to build a program, mentor young people, and make a lasting impact on a community that values excellence, teamwork, and personal growth.
WHO WILL THRIVE AS A SMR COACH
A coach who believes athletics are a powerful platform for mentoring and developing young people.
A leader who brings energy, organization, and a clear vision for building a competitive and positive program culture.
An individual who values teamwork and collaboration with colleagues across athletics, wellness and academics.
A communicator who builds strong relationships with student-athletes, families and the school community.
A competitor who loves the game and is excited to guide student-athletes in one of the most competitive high school conferences in the country.