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Training Opportunities for Coaches The Special Olympics coaches training program formally began in 1981. The current Special Olympics Coaches Education System has been recently developed to meet the needs of varying knowledge and competencies of coaches and athletes. Basically, there are two tracks - one for the sport qualified but non-Special Olympics experienced individual, the other for the non-sport qualified and non-Special Olympics experienced individual. General Orientation The General Orientation is a basic introduction to Special Olympics. It covers Special Olympics mission and philosophy, organizational history and structure, mental retardation and eligibility, and sports opportunities, initiatives, and rules. The General Orientation is necessary for all who are interested in working with Special Olympics athletes. For the non-sport qualified and non-Special Olympics experienced coaches-to-be track, there are a variety of additional training opportunities. After each one of the courses, coaches complete 10 hours of practical experience in working with Special Olympics athletes in order to complete certification. Skills Course The Skills Course (formerly Volunteer Coach) is offered in each of the sports and focuses on the basic skills and strategies of the sport. It provides an application of the Special Olympics mission and philosophy in a sport-specific way. The Skills Course includes a classroom session, an activity session performing the skills with the lead trainers, and a model training session with athletes. Principles of Coaching Course The Principles of Coaching Course is non-sport-specific and seeks to expand more of the sport sciences. It addresses the basic principles of coaching, coaching philosophy, planning and coaching administration, fitness and conditioning, and safety and risk management. Tactics Course The Tactics Course is sport-specific and focuses on development of higher-level sport skills, game or event tactics and strategies, expanded skill instruction, and enhancing athlete performance. Comprehensive Mentoring The newest opportunity is Comprehensive Mentoring in which a coach works with and is mentored by an experienced coach in Special Olympics and/or in the mainstream. The coach participates in a variety of opportunities such as staff briefings, practice sessions, weight training sessions, competitions, etc. For the sport qualified but non-Special Olympics experienced coaches-to-be track, there is a new course beyond the General Orientation. After this course, coaches complete 20 hours of practical experience in working with Special Olympics athletes in order to complete certification. Coaching Special Olympics Athletes focuses on what a sport qualified person needs to know about the athlete, added responsibilities of the coach, training the athlete, and preparing the athlete for competition. A practical component in working with Special Olympics athletes under the supervision and guidance of a lead trainer is also offered. Coaches are encouraged and recognized for participating in other approved coaches education that includes, but is not limited to, first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation, rules updates, managing athlete behavior and protective behavior, national governing body courses, training updates, etc. back to top |
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