Head Fencing Coach

Position Summary The Head Fencing Coach is responsible for the leadership, development, recruitment, and overall management of Hargrave Military Academy's fencing program. This full-time position provides technical instruction and mentorship to Cadet-athletes while actively recruiting prospective students and building a competitive, sustainable program aligned with Hargrave's mission and Four Pillars of Academics, Athletics, Character, and Faith. Responsibilities Lead and manage all aspects of Hargrave's fencing program, including training, competition, recruiting, equipment, and program development. Plan and conduct practices, individual instruction, conditioning, and competitive preparation. Teach Olympic-style fencing, with an emphasis on foil and/or pe, including technique, tactics, rules, scoring, safety, and sportsmanship. Coach and supervise all competitions, tournaments, team travel, and fencing-related activities. Actively recruit prospective Cadet-athletes through tournaments, fencing clubs, coaches, families, and other recruiting networks. Partner with Admissions and Athletics to identify prospective students, support recruiting efforts, and promote Hargrave's fencing program. Develop relationships within the regional and national fencing community to strengthen recruiting and program visibility. Establish and enforce high standards for safety, discipline, sportsmanship, conduct, and equipment care. Maintain fencing weapons, protective equipment, scoring equipment, and uniforms, including basic armory and sewing repairs. Maintain accurate equipment inventories and oversee the setup and breakdown of fencing areas for home competitions. Communicate effectively with Cadets, parents, faculty and staff, athletic personnel, officials, and Academy leadership. Represent Hargrave professionally at competitions, recruiting events, and other on- and off-campus activities. Follow all Academy policies and procedures and perform other duties as assigned by the Athletic Director or President. Qualifications Experience in Olympic-style fencing, with demonstrated knowledge of foil and/or pe. Previous fencing coaching, instructional, or competitive experience required. Knowledge of fencing techniques, rules, safety standards, equipment, and basic armory procedures. Strong recruiting, communication, organizational, and relationship-building skills. Ability to mentor and develop student-athletes. Ability to travel for competitions, tournaments, recruiting, and program-related activities. Commitment to Hargrave's mission and the development of young men through athletics, leadership, discipline, and character. Physical Demands Ability to demonstrate fencing techniques and participate in the physical activities associated with coaching. Ability to stand and move for extended periods and lift or carry equipment weighing up to 50 pounds. Ability to set up and break down fencing and tournament equipment. Ability to work evenings and weekends and travel as required. About Hargrave Hargrave Military Academy, located in Chatham, Virginia, is an all-male military boarding school serving grades 612 and one postgraduate year. Founded in 1909, Hargrave develops young men through a structured college-preparatory environment centered on Academics, Athletics, Character, and Faith.