About Our Coaches

Coaches play a unique and indispensable role in Special Olympics around the world. Coaches provide the sports skills and spirit that define a true athlete. In addition, coaches are role models and character builders. Coaches give Special Olympics athletes the most immediate awareness of their own worth, ability, courage and capacity to grow and improve.

Special Olympics coaches often find that the personal rewards received are equal to or even outweigh the benefits they offer the athletes. Special Olympics coaches have a unique opportunity to work with athletes in competitive situations to assist in their training for life.

Requirements to Coach Special Olympics

You must be at least 16 years old. In addition, no Coach/Chaperone under the age of 18 should be solely responsible for the supervision of athletes at any time.
Coaches are Class A volunteers.
Coaches must re-certify every three years.
Head Coaches must be Level 3 certified. (For more about levels of certification)

Getting started:

Level 1
Required Courses:

General Orientation

Must attend an in-person class offered in various locations at various times throughout the state

Upon completion one can take the in-class quiz or complete the quiz here:
General Orientation Quiz

In addition, the Application for Coaches Training Certification must be completed and faxed to 605-331-4328 or emailed to Chad VanderPoel at cvanderpoel@sosd.org