COACHING SPECIAL OLYMPICS' ATHLETES

Special Olympics coaches are models whose behavior serves as a positive example for their athletes.  They must strive to provide the fairest and most positive competitive experience for every Special Olympics athlete.  A coach is expected to uphold Olympic ideals and values.  The coach must, above all, exhibit respect for the athletes, other coaches, volunteers, families and Games officials.  They must have positive interpersonal relationships, uphold the highest values and be honest, trustworthy and courteous to all persons at all levels of the organization.  Furthermore, the coach's principles of coaching must be compatible with the philosophy and objectives of Special Olympics.  

The coach's verbal and physical behavior is expected to reflect a positive and constructive attitude toward Special Olympics competition and toward those officials, coaches, and event coordinators whose time and efforts provide that competitive opportunity.  This attitude should reflect a confidence in the decisions of the Games Committee and sports officials, a belief that their decisions are made in the best interests of a fair competitive experience for all athletes, and are made in keeping with the goals and philosophies of Special Olympics.  The coach accepts responsibility for the behavior of his or her athletes both in and out of the competitive arena while attending a Special Olympics event.

The Special Olympics coach is one who successfully tempers his or her own competitive urges and desires for success in order to assure that the fairest and most positive competitive experience is realized by all persons involved in the event.  A good coach realizes that the Special Olympics experience is not limited to competition.  The most successful coach is one who focuses on the lifelong benefits the athlete receives.

As a coach, your attitude toward sports and competition will directly affect your athletes.  Special Olympics believes the athletic experience and camaraderie shared by teammates, coaches and other volunteers is what benefits the athlete most.

• Successful coaches help athletes to enjoy mastering new skills, enjoy competing with others and to feel good about themselves.
• Successful coaches are well versed in techniques and skills and know how to teach these skills to their athletes.
• Successful coaches not only teach sports skills to their athletes, they also teach and model skills needed for successful living in society.
• Successful coaches are those who can learn new skills, who are flexible enough to change old ways when needed, who can accept constructive criticism and who are able to critically evaluate themselves.