Job Summary
Free Play for Kids is seeking a dedicated and energetic Wolves Soccer Program Manager to lead the planning, delivery, and growth of the Wolves Soccer pathway, including oversight of a new outdoor soccer and multi-purpose field. This role is responsible for ensuring high-quality, inclusive soccer programming that supports athlete development, community engagement, and Free Play's mission of providing accessible sport opportunities for all youth.
The Wolves Soccer Program Manager oversees program operations, including scheduling, coach support, staffing coordination, and program delivery. They are responsible for creating a positive and development-focused environment that promotes skill development, physical literacy, social-emotional growth, and a lifelong love of sport.
In addition to Wolves Soccer programming, the role supports initiatives connected to the Jumpstart Field, including community activations, field programming, and special events. The position may also provide support to Free to Play and Junior Wolves programming as operational needs arise, helping ensure continuity across Free Play's youth development pathway.
The ideal candidate is organized, collaborative, and passionate about using soccer as a tool for youth development, community building, and positive social impact.
Education & Qualifications
- Extensive soccer coaching experience at a medium to high-performance level.
- Strong soccer playing background; experience participating in other sports is considered an asset.
- Strong technical knowledge of soccer, including the ability to lead skill development sessions, gameplay, and coaching fundamentals. Knowledge of Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) principles is considered an asset.
- Diploma or degree in Sport Management, Recreation, Physical Education, Kinesiology, or a related field is preferred.
- Demonstrated experience coordinating sports programs, with a strong emphasis on soccer programming.
- Solid understanding of soccer rules, tactics, player development pathways, and athlete-centered coaching practices.
- Soccer coaching certifications or licenses, including but not limited to Canada Soccer C Licence, NCCP Coaching Certifications, Respect in Sport, or equivalent credentials, are considered a strong asset.
- Mandatory training to be completed prior to the start of employment includes Rule of Two and Safe Sport certifications.
- Experience leading, supervising, or managing staff, coaches, volunteers, or teams is considered an asset.
- Experience managing or supporting outdoor field operations, scheduling, facility bookings, or league logistics is considered an asset.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, based on program, league, and tournament schedules.
- Standard First Aid and CPR Certification, or the ability to obtain certification promptly upon hire.
- Valid driver's license with access to a reliable vehicle and the ability to travel throughout Edmonton and surrounding areas.
- Clear and current Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Check.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the planning, coordination, and delivery of all Wolves Soccer Club programming, including leagues, academies, camps, tournaments, and special events.
- Develop and manage the Soccer Development Academies, supporting athlete development and progression into club teams.
- Oversee player registrations through Free Play systems and external leagues as required.
- Coordinate practice, game, tournament, and event schedules to ensure smooth program operations.
- Support fundraising initiatives for Wolves Soccer teams and programs.
- Develop and maintain program resources, lesson plans, and training materials aligned with Free Play’s Sport to Life curriculum.
- Train, supervise, and support Head Coaches, Assistant Coaches, and Volunteer Coaches.
- Manage staff scheduling, timesheet approvals, performance evaluations, and staffing coverage.
- Provide hands-on leadership by coaching, mentoring staff, and supporting program delivery when needed.
- Manage equipment inventory and ensure all equipment is safe, organized, and well maintained.
- Maintain accurate records, including attendance, incident reports, evaluations, and program documentation.
- Communicate effectively with families, participants, coaches, and community partners regarding program updates and expectations.
- Build and maintain relationships with schools, soccer clubs, community organizations, and key stakeholders.
- Collaborate with the marketing team to promote programming, recruit participants, and showcase program successes.
- Continuously evaluate and improve program quality, participant experience, safety, and athlete development outcomes.
- Work closely with the Director of Programs and Chief Operating Officer to strengthen systems, policies, and operational practices.
Community Engagement
- Support the planning, coordination, and delivery of programming connected to the Jumpstart Field initiative.
- Lead or assist with community activations, field programming, tournaments, and special events hosted at the Jumpstart Field.
- Collaborate with community partners and organizational staff to maximize the use, accessibility, and impact of the Jumpstart Field within the community.
- Ensure field operations are safe, organized, welcoming, and aligned with Free Play’s mission, values, and participant experience standards.
Organizational Support
- Provide operational and program support to other Free Play initiatives as required, including Free to Play, Junior Wolves, Welcome to Play, and special organizational programming.
- Assist with in-school Free Play sessions and Junior Wolves programming when operational needs arise.
- Work collaboratively across departments to ensure consistency, alignment, and continuity throughout Free Play’s youth development pathway.
- Support organizational events, community initiatives, tournaments, field trips, and special projects as assigned.
- Contribute to a positive, collaborative team culture and support the overall success of Free Play for Kids programming and operations.
Position Conditions
- This full-time position requires working Monday through Friday, with the flexibility to work non-traditional hours, including weekends and evenings, depending on program schedules
- Work performed primarily in a recreation centre environment; program sites may vary
Please send a cover letter and resume to [email protected] with the job title in the subject line of the email.
Free Play for Kids is an equal-opportunity employer. Diversity and inclusion are values of Free Play for Kids. Free Play welcomes applications from qualified individuals from all backgrounds.
Free Play for Kids respectfully operates on Treaty 6 territory, a traditional gathering place for diverse Indigenous peoples, including the Cree, Blackfoot, Métis, Nakota Sioux, Iroquois, Dene, Ojibway/Saulteaux/Anishinaabe, Inuit, and many others whose histories, languages, and cultures continue to influence our community.
Pay: $50,000.00-$60,000.00 per year
Application question(s):
- This position requires working in Edmonton, AB. Are you located here or able to commute?
- Are you able to obtain and submit a Police Information Check with a Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC) if selected? (Typically requires applicants to be 18+ yrs)
- Are you currently certified in First Aid + CPR Level C, or willing to obtain this certification if selected?
Work Location: In person
