The mission of The University of Bridgeport is to promote academic excellence, personal responsibility, and commitment to service. Distinctive curricula in an international, culturally diverse supportive learning environment prepare graduates for life and leadership in an increasingly interconnected world.

Position Description Summary/Purpose:

The Head Coach of Competitive Dance is responsible for launching and leading the University of Bridgeport’s competitive dance program. This position will recruit, develop, and coach a student dance team to represent the university at athletic events and regional or national competitions beginning in the 2027 season. The coach will establish the team culture, training program, choreography, and recruiting pipeline.

Essential Job Functions/Primary Responsibilities:

(The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.)

• Program Development

• Establish the University of Bridgeport Competitive Dance Team program and strategic plan.

• Develop team policies, practice schedules, and training programs.

• Choreograph routines or coordinate choreography for performances and competitions.

• Coordinate auditions and selection of team members.

• Actively recruit prospective student-athletes for the dance team locally, regionally, and nationally.

• Build relationships with high school dance programs, studios, and competition teams.

• Collaborate with admissions and athletics recruiting staff.

• Coaching & Training

• Conduct regular practices and conditioning sessions.

• Develop team techniques in jazz, hip-hop, pom, and other competitive styles.

• Prepare routines for competitions, game-day performances, and university events.

• Coordinate participation in collegiate dance competitions (UDA, NDA, etc.).

• Manage game-day performances at university athletic events.

• Oversee travel and logistics for competitions.

• Conducts all work in a safe manner and all work safety practices are followed.

Other Functions: 

• Ensure compliance with university, conference, and NCAA/athletic department policies.

• Work with athletics marketing for promotions and community engagement.

• Manage program budget and equipment needs.

• Performs similar or related work as required, directed or as situation dictates.

• Continues professional development and training; keeps current with trends.

• Assists other department staff as needed to promote a team effort.

Knowledge, Ability and Skill:

• Student Development

• Promote academic success, leadership, and positive team culture.

• Supervise student leadership positions (captains, officers).

• Demonstrated commitment to developing and fostering best practices and policies to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and build an environment in which all members of the University community are treated with respect and dignity.