Jr. Wolves Program Manager
Job Summary
Free Play for Kids is seeking a dedicated and energetic Junior Wolves Program Manager to lead the planning, delivery, and growth of Free Play’s Jr. Wolves Program across all Free to Play schools and participants. This role plays a key part in bringing Free Play’s mission to life by ensuring that every child regardless of background or experience has the opportunity to learn, play, and grow through inclusive, community-driven sport.
The Jr. Wolves Program Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of program operations, from league management and coordination to quality assurance and player development. This role will work closely with managers of the Free to Play program, coaches, schools, and community partners to build safe, inclusive, and accessible sport experiences that support physical literacy and social-emotional learning. Primarily, this role will focus on developing multiple Jr. Wolves Soccer, Basketball and Ball Hockey teams and expand opportunities for youth ages 7-12 to engage in high-quality, community-based sport teams. The ideal candidate is organized, collaborative, and passionate about using sport as a tool for youth development and community building.
Education & Qualifications
Diploma or degree in Sports Management, Recreation, Physical Education, or a related field (preferred)
Demonstrated experience in sports program coordination, ideally across multiple sports such as ball hockey, basketball (including 3x3), and soccer (including futsal)
Moderate proficiency across all three sports (ball hockey, basketball & soccer) with the ability to confidently support skill development, gameplay, and basic coaching principles in each.
Strong understanding of rules, strategies, and player development approaches across the three sports
Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, based on program and league schedules
Standard First Aid Certification and CPR training, or the ability to obtain quickly
Valid driver’s license with a reliable vehicle and the ability to travel within Edmonton
Clear up-to-date Criminal and Vulnerable Sector check
Key Responsibilities
Program Delivery & Operations (75%)
Lead the planning, coordination, and supervision of all sport programming, including in-school sessions, leagues, camps, and special events.
Develop and manage the Jr. Wolves Ball Hockey, Basketball and Soccer internal leagues with the goal of transitioning these teams into the Wolves Athletic Club, external facing leagues.
Oversee participant transitions between internal Free Play for Kids initiatives, such as the Welcome to Play, Free to Play, and Wolves Athletic Club programs.
Oversee player registration within Free Play systems and through external leagues as needed.
Develop and manage practice, game, tournament, and event schedules to ensure smooth operations.
Design, update, and maintain program resources, lesson plans, and training materials aligned with Free Play’s Sport to Life curriculum.
Provide on-the-ground leadership by coaching, supporting staff, or covering sessions when necessary.
Manage equipment inventory and ensure all gear is safe, well-organized, and properly maintained.
Maintain accurate program documentation, including attendance, incidents, and administrative records.
Communicate proactively with families, participants, and community partners about schedules, updates, and expectations.
Build and strengthen relationships with schools, local clubs, and community organizations to expand participation..
Collaborate with the marketing team to promote programs, recruit participants, and highlight success stories.
Continuously assess and enhance program quality, safety, and participant experience.
Work closely with the Director of Programs and Chief Operating Officer to refine systems, policies, and best practices.
Staff Leadership & Development (25%)
Recruit, train, and supervise Head Coaches, Assistant Coaches, Volunteer Coaches, and practicum students.
Provide mentorship, feedback, and professional growth opportunities to all coaching and support staff.
Foster a positive, inclusive, and collaborative team environment that reflects Free Play’s values.
Ensure consistent delivery of programming aligned with the Free Play’s coaching pedagogy including the integration of the Sport to Life curriculum and games-based design, and alignment with Free Play’s mission.
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
Free Play for Kids is an equal-opportunity employer. Diversity and inclusion are values of Free Play for Kids. Free Play for Kids 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.
