Coaches play a unique and indispensable role in Special Olympics Kansas. They provide the sports skills and spirit that define a true athlete and serve as role models and character builders.
Why should YOU become a coach?
- You’ll be a role model in your community
- It’s a great way to stay in good physical condition
- You’ll expand your network of friends and have fun
Coaches and program volunteers are needed in communities all across the state. Be the difference maker your community needs.
1
Get Connected
Get connected with a local program
Make sure you have filled out the coach interest form. We will contact local programs in your area and find the right fit then reach out to you.
Click here to find Local Programs in your area.
2
Requirements
Complete coaching requirements below
Complete the necessary requirements to become a Certified Coach. It is required that these forms be completed before working with athletes. We recommend that you be connected with a local program/team before filling out the paperwork.
HOW TO BECOME A CERTIFIED COACH
A Certified Coach is a volunteer for the local program who has met the SOKS requirements to become a coach. The coach provides athletes with sports training and competition opportunities.
1
REQUIRED: Fill out the Class A Volunteer form (Under 18? Fill out the Minor Class A Volunteer form instead.). Once you complete the Class A Form, you will receive an email from Sterling Volunteers within one business day to complete a background check. (Renewal required every three years.)
2
REQUIRED: Complete Protective Behaviors training (on-line training regarding Abuse & Neglect). Documentation must be on file at SOKS. Renewed every 3 years rounded to the end of the year.
3
REQUIRED: General Orientation (on-line training) One-time only. Includes: Principles of Coaching, General Orientation to Special Olympics, and Athlete Centered Coaching Guide.
4
RECOMMENDED: Concussion Training — Complete the “Heads up Coaches Concussion in Youth Sports” – free through Special Olympics North America. Documentation must be on file with SOKS. Renewed every 3 years rounded to the end of the year.
5
RECOMMENDED: Complete Sport Certification test (on-line training). Found with each sport listing here.
CERTIFIED COACH RESPONSIBILITIES
- To know and understand the rules of the sport being coached: Special Kansas Modifications to rules; Official Special Olympics Sports Rules; National Governing Body Rules; Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA). This includes knowing the order in which they will be followed.
- A Certified coach is required to be "on the bench" during competitions.
- Attend Coaches Training Schools and other training opportunities.
- Evaluate athletes’ abilities according to the Special Olympics standards. This includes conducting Skill Assessment tests when required.
- Ensure athletes participate in an eight week training period prior to competing. It’s understood due to weather or facility issues 8 weeks of training isn’t always possible however every attempt should be made to meet the 8 weeks of training guideline.
- Provide a safe environment for athletes to train and compete.
- Know emergency procedures- this would include weather safety, basic first aid, etc.
- Ensure athletes have adequate and properly fitted equipment. Example- Athletes should not be wearing jeans when competing in athletics.
- Work with Local Program Coordinator to ensure athletes Medical/Release forms (physicals), Health Information Update Forms, and Down Syndrome Addendum Forms are taken to training locations and competition sites.
- Plan and organize practice sessions.
- Maintain communication with Local Program Coordinator, athletes, and their families.
- Work with Local Program Coordinator to be sure accurate assessment information is recorded on registration materials and submitted by regional or state deadlines.
- To execute the moral and ethical responsibilities of a Coach.
- Follow Coaches’ Code of Conduct.
TIME COMMITMENT
Time commitment is usually 8-12 weeks per sport. Certified Coach are required to attend weekly practices (usually 1 hour per week) in addition to 2 competitions which are roughly 6 hours each.
Note: Some state competitions are more than 1 day thus requiring travel and overnight stay. A certified coach is required to be “on the bench” during competitions.
COACHING CODE OF CONDUCT
All coaches are asked to adhere to the Code of Conduct. Click here to download the Coaches Code of Conduct.
