Become A Coach

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To become a Certified Special Olympics Coach, a volunteer must first get in touch with Melissa O’Brien, Area Director, 410-746-0320, mobrien1964@gmail.com or Joyce Powell, Asst. Area Director, missjmg@yahoo.com.

STEPS TO BECOMING A COACH

Attend a General Orientation as a basic introduction to Special Olympics
Attend an approved second course covering a specific sport, aspects of coaching individuals with intellectual disabilities, or other coaching tactics
Complete 10 hours of working with Special Olympics athletes under an experienced coach; and
Complete the Special Olympics Application for Sports Training Certification and submit it to the Local Special Olympics Program.
Complete the training program for Protective Behaviors and submit confirmation of completion to the Local Special Olympics Program (U.S. only).

Those individuals who are not looking to become a certified coach can serve as an Assistant Coach.

However, an Assistant Coach is encouraged to work towards becoming a certified coach within his/her sport within one year of becoming involved as a coach. Assistant coaches help assess each athlete to determine skill level for competition and training.

In addition, the assistant coach is highly involved in training program for each athlete including fundamental skills, conditioning, and rules. Having a complete knowledge of Special Olympics Sports Rules and abiding by them is required.