OverviewThe Illawarra Basketball Association (IBA) is seeking Expressions of Interest for the position of NBL1 Women's Head Coach for the 2026 NBL1 East season. 
The Head Coach will report to the Head of Basketball and is responsible for leading, recruiting, developing, and coaching the Illawarra Hawks NBL1 Women's team. 
This role requires proven recruitment ability, strong leadership, and a commitment to building a professional culture that develops Illawarra talent while delivering competitive results in the NBL1 East competition.Key ResponsibilitiesProgram LeadershipLead and manage the NBL1 Women's program in line with IBA's values and long-term visionSet and uphold transparent standards around professionalism, accountability, behaviour, and on-court performanceBuild a culture that inspires junior and youth players to progress into NBL1, while delivering a competitive product on the floorUnderstand and assist in managing the program's player budgetsRecruitment & Roster ManagementRecruit and build a roster for the 2026 NBL1 East season in conjunction with the IBA Head of BasketballRecruit a high-level Australian professional (WNBL/NBL1 calibre) to anchor the rosterBalance the roster to achieve success while providing a genuine pathway for Illawarra juniorsRecruit and manage all team staff, including assistant coaches and team managers, in consultation with IBA's processes and policiesCoaching & Game ManagementAttend all NBL1 training sessions and games, lead team preparation and scouting, and develop game strategiesMentor, develop, and coach team members individually and in groups to develop players and demonstrate game techniqueDevelop and adapt systems that suit the Illawarra playing group and maximise competitive successProvide clear player roles, rotation plans, and demonstrate in-game flexibilityBe accountable for the team's performance and results throughout the NBL1 seasonOperationsTake responsibility for team operations, deadlines, administration, and compliance as directed by IBA staffLead coaching staff (Assistants/Team Manager) with clear role allocations (scouting, player support, admin, planning)Support the Head of Basketball to ensure that all players are meeting their contracted or implied duties within the Illawarra communityCommunity & Pathway EngagementRepresent IBA professionally in the community and mediaWork with Youth League and junior programs to maintain a seamless female player pathwaySupport IBA community programs, clinics, and promotional activitiesBuild and nurture positive relationships across the NBL1 squad, staff, and the wider IBA communityKey AttributesDemonstrated excellence in leadership, strategy, and communication in a high-performance basketball environmentProven ability to recruit and retain talent, manage rosters, and build balanced teamsExperience coaching at NBL1 or higher level, with strong knowledge of current basketball systemsStrong organisational skills and willingness to work within IBA's structuresA passion for fostering a culture of holistic development, accountability, and community engagementAbility to hold players and staff accountable in a respectful, constructive wayEssential RequirementsValid NSW Working With Children CheckAssociation Coach Accreditation (Level 2) or higherValid driver's licence 
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📌 Illawarra Hawks Nbl1 East Women'S Head Coach
🏢 ILLAWARRA MERCURY
📍 Wollongong