Our coaches model good sportsmanship and character to enhance the overall sports experience for athletes. Lesson taught by you on the playing field-teamwork, self discipline, and confidence-carry over into the athlete’s everyday lives.
Considerations for Coaches
It is encouraged for prospective coaches to have sport experience, but education opportunities and resources are available to properly prepare individuals for their role as coaches. Please note that the nature of the coaching role typically requires a greater time commitment than other volunteer opportunities.
In addition to the basic requirements, coaches responsibilities include:
- Being available for practices, training and competition
- Registering athletes for competition
- Obtaining equipment for athletic training
- Recruiting assistant coaches for your local training program (LTP)
New Coaches
New coaches that have not been placed with a local training program should email volunteer@sonj.org before registering as a coach. Let us know what county you are located in and what sport(s) you are interested in coaching. You can view our sports offered each season on our Sports Page.
Athletes as Coaches
After spending many years competing, Special Olympics athletes often want to explore a leadership role in coaching. It is important to note that once an athlete begins coaching a sport, that athlete may no longer compete in that sport.
The process for an athlete to become a coach is as follows:
- The head coach of the program in which the athlete will coach needs to send a letter of intent to the state office, signed by the County Coordinator.
- Upon approval, the athlete can complete the coaching requirements and get started!
Coaches Requirements
Coaches must be at least 18 years old. Coaches should register as a coach only once they have been placed with a local training program.
Forms and Trainings: must be completed every 3 years
- Class A Volunteer form and waivers
- Background Check
- Protective Behaviors training
- Concussion Awareness training
Register as a Coach:
- Create an account on our Volunteer Registration Portal.
- Click “Select Your Volunteer Role” and apply as a Coach.
- Click “Go to My Checklist” and complete the requirements.
For questions about coaching, please email volunteer@sonj.org.
To view more information about coaching, please visit our “Coaches” page below.