Become a Coach
Special Olympics West Virginia athletes participate in more sports and at higher levels than ever before. Much of this success can be attributed to the coaches. As a coach, you provide the sports skills and spirit that, when instilled, define a true athlete. You are a role model and character builder. You give Special Olympics athletes the most immediate awareness of their self-worth, ability, courage, and capacity to grow and improve.
HOW TO GET STARTED
Complete the Class A Volunteer Registration Form. Class A background clearance is required for any volunteer in close contact with athletes – including coaches, Unified Partners, chaperones, committee members, or handles money on behalf of our organization.
Please download and email your completed form to Wendy Miller
Please register on the SO Learning Portal and under the “Volunteer” section, complete the Protective Behaviors & Heads Up Concussion Awareness trainings. BOTH are required of all Class A volunteers, including county directors, committee members, coaches, assistant coaches, chaperones, and Unified Partners over the age of 18. Hang onto a copy of your certification for verification purposes.
All coaches must be certified in their respective sport to coach. Review the Coaches Resources under each sport’s page, then take the online Coach Certification Test for your sport. Visit your respective sport to learn more!
If you have not already been in touch with your Special Olympics county director, you can find their information here.
If you are coaching Unified Sports for Special Olympics, you must also be certified in Coaching Unified Sports course.
This free one-hour long course is designed to explain Special Olympics Unified Sports and offer guidance on how to become a successful Unified Sports coach.
You will need to create an account, and “purchase” the free course. Once completed, please send your certificate to Wendy Miller.
Want more information? Check out our Coaches Corner for additional resources.