Job Summary
We Are Not Looking For Volunteers. We are looking for leaders.
HPAD Basketball is seeking two passionate and experienced Lead Coaches to join our Fall Development Program and help build one of Edmonton's most athlete-focused basketball environments. Our philosophy moving forward is simple: Development over exposure.
We believe athletes deserve coaching that prioritizes skill development, accountability, confidence, and long-term growth; not politics, promises, or shortcuts.
As a Lead Coach, you will be responsible for delivering high-quality practices, mentoring athletes, fostering a positive and competitive learning environment, and helping players reach their full potential both on and off the court. Working alongside HPAD leadership, coaches will support athlete development, evaluate player progress, and assist in identifying athletes for additional tournament opportunities.
This seasonal position is ideal for coaches, former athletes, teachers, or basketball professionals who are passionate about youth development and want to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young athletes. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong leadership, professionalism, communication skills, and a commitment to creating an environment where athletes can develop confidence, discipline, and a lifelong love for the game.
If you are passionate about teaching basketball, mentoring young athletes, and helping players reach their potential, we want to hear from you.
Responsibilities and Duties
Athlete Development
- Plan and deliver engaging, age-appropriate basketball practices aligned with HPAD's development philosophy and development curriculum.
- Teach and reinforce fundamental and advanced basketball skills, including shooting, ball handling, footwork, decision-making, and defensive concepts.
- Provide individual feedback and instruction to support athlete growth and confidence.
- Evaluate athlete progress throughout the season and identify areas for continued development.
- Assist with athlete assessments and tournament team selections when required.
Leadership and Mentorship
- Serve as a positive role model by demonstrating professionalism, integrity, accountability, and sportsmanship.
- Foster a culture of discipline, effort, respect, and continuous improvement.
- Build meaningful relationships with athletes while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries.
- Encourage athlete confidence, resilience, leadership, and personal responsibility both on and off the court.
- Support the overall well-being and development of athletes beyond basketball performance.
Tournament and Event Participation
- Attend and coach assigned tournaments, games, showcases, and program events.
- Provide leadership and supervision for athletes during team travel and competition.
- Evaluate athlete performance during competition and communicate development objectives.
- Represent HPAD professionally when interacting with athletes, families, officials, event organizers, and opposing programs.
Requirements and Expectations
The ideal candidate will demonstrate professionalism, accountability, and a commitment to athlete development. Successful coaches will be expected to:
- Possess previous basketball coaching, training, or playing experience.
- Demonstrate strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
- Serve as a positive role model and ambassador for HPAD Basketball.
- Maintain professional and respectful relationships with athletes, families, staff, officials, and community partners.
- Communicate regularly with HPAD leadership regarding athlete development, attendance, and program needs.
- Track and report athlete attendance and participation as required.
- Respond to program communications in a timely and professional manner.
- Participate in coach meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities.
- Collaborate effectively with fellow coaches and HPAD staff to support program objectives.
- Demonstrate reliability, punctuality, and preparedness for all practices, tournaments, and events.
- Maintain a current Criminal Record Check or be willing to obtain one prior to employment.
- Hold NCCP, Alberta Basketball, Canada Basketball, or equivalent coaching certifications (considered an asset but not required).
- Uphold all HPAD policies, procedures, and standards of conduct.
- Maintain confidentiality regarding athlete, family, and organizational information.
- Demonstrate a genuine passion for youth development and a commitment to helping athletes grow both on and off the court.
Compensation
Between $25 and $33 per hour, 'depending on experience'
Additional tournament compensation provided. Performance-based incentives available for coaches who demonstrate exceptional leadership, athlete development, retention, and program contribution.
Time Commitment
- Approximately 3 hours per week
- 2 practices weekly
- 1 tournament weekend per month
- 1 Paid travel opportunity
- September – November 2026
This role is ideal for coaches seeking meaningful impact without the demands of a full club-season commitment.
What Makes HPAD Different?
At HPAD, coaches are not hired simply to supervise workouts. They are entrusted to develop athletes. Our coaches work in an environment where:
- Athlete development comes first
- Coach-to-athlete ratios remain small
- Leadership is valued
- Professionalism is expected
- Effort and impact are recognized
- Opportunities for future seasonal, travel team, and year-round coaching positions within the HPAD system
We are not looking for coaches who simply roll out a basketball and run drills. We are looking for mentors, teachers, and leaders who believe that the right environment can change the trajectory of a young athlete's life. If that sounds like you, we encourage you to apply.
Selection Process
Selected applicants may be invited to participate in a multi-stage hiring process that includes:
- Application review
- Interview
- Practical on-court coaching evaluation
- Reference and background checks
To Apply
Please submit your resume and a brief introduction outlining your coaching background, playing experience, and coaching philosophy.
Only selected applicants will be contacted.
Pay: $25.00-$33.33 per hour
Benefits:
Application question(s):
- In your opinion, what is the most important responsibility of a youth basketball coach and why?
- In 300 words or less, what is your coaching philosophy?
- Do you have Former Coaching & Playing Experience, explain both in brief detail.
Work Location: In person