Commencement Date: 1 April 2026
Location: Somerset College, Somerset West, Western Cape, South Africa
Closing Date: 26 November 2025
Email: humanresources@somcol.co.za
Website: Somerset College
Job Overview:
Somerset College is seeking a Head Rowing Coach to lead the school’s rowing programme starting 1 April 2026. The successful candidate will be responsible for coaching, developing, and mentoring athletes, overseeing the rowing programme’s operations, and collaborating with various stakeholders. This role combines high-level coaching with strategic planning and performance management, ensuring that Somerset College Rowing maintains excellence in all aspects of the sport.
Key Responsibilities:
Coaching & Athlete Development:
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Provide high-level coaching and mentorship for athletes and assistant coaches.
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Shape the direction, culture, and performance standards of the Somerset College Rowing Club.
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Deliver structured pre-season and in-season training programmes to support holistic student-athlete growth.
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Coach on weekdays and Saturdays during the rowing season, maintaining excellence in technical, physiological, and safety standards.
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Ensure all safeguarding standards are met and implemented.
Programme & Performance Management:
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Oversee athlete and crew selection processes with transparency and maintain detailed performance records.
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Plan and manage training camps and regattas, ensuring efficient logistics, fair selections, and alignment with performance goals.
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Supervise equipment management, including boat rigging, loading, and maintenance.
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Collaborate with the Master in Charge (MIC) of Rowing on coach recruitment, evaluation, and remuneration.
Administration & Stakeholder Engagement:
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Manage daily club operations, including equipment, communication, and scheduling.
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Coordinate race calendars with Western Cape Rowing (WCR) and RowSA, ensuring compliance with regulations.
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Represent Somerset College at WCR and RowSA meetings.
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Provide strategic input on the long-term direction and alignment of the rowing programme with the school’s values and objectives.
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Maintain positive relationships with neighbouring schools and rowing clubs.
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Engage with support services and participate in public relations, fundraising, and promotional activities.
Qualifications, Experience, and Prerequisites:
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Proven experience as a rowing coach, ideally at a competitive school or club level.
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Strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
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In-depth knowledge of rowing techniques, training methodologies, and safety standards.
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Familiarity with RowSA regulations and competitive rowing structures.
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A coaching qualification and/or teaching background is advantageous.
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Must maintain current certifications in first aid, CPR, and AED use (proof required within 30 days of employment).
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Relevant RowSA coaching accreditations and levels required (FISA accreditation is a plus).
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A valid Police Clearance Certificate (not older than 1 month) is required.
How to Apply:
To apply, please send a letter of application, CV, and three contactable references to the Human Resources Officer at humanresources@somcol.co.za.
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Closing Date: 26 November 2025
Somerset College is an equal opportunity employer, and submission of an application does not guarantee an interview. The school reserves the right not to make an appointment.
Somerset College will ensure the confidentiality of all applicants in line with POPIA (Protection of Personal Information Act).