Coaches Corner
Special Olympics coaches play a vital role in the success of Special Olympics. Despite it being one of the most demanding responsibilities you may ever take on, we challenge you to find one more rewarding!
Coaches have access to a variety of information, training plans, and guidance to help the athletes on their team reach their full potential.
Trainings & Resources
All Class A Volunteers (i.e. County directors, coaches, assistant coaches, chaperones, bus drivers, county committee members) are required to have a background check, Protective Behaviors & Concussion Awareness trainings on file with SOWV.
Coaches are required to be certified in their sport (traditional and/or Unified)
Coach Training
Special Olympics WV believes constant training and education not only helps grow our athletes, and increase their skills, but keeps our coaches and volunteers up to date with changes.
This is why Special Olympics requires at least one CERTIFIED Coach for all sports, individual and team.
In accordance with Special Olympics International (SOI) and Special Olympics North America (SONA) guidelines, Special Olympics WV recognizes 3 levels of volunteer & coach certifications.
- Sports Assistant
- Certified Coach
- Advanced Certified Coach
For an overview of all volunteer and coach requirements as of September 1, 2020, click here
- SOWV Class A Volunteer Packet
- SOWV Athlete Participation Packet
- Protective Behaviors
- Concussion Awareness
- SOWV General Orientation
- Coach Code of Conduct
- Sports Specific Recertifications
- Coaching Unified Sports
- Coaching Special Olympics Athletes
- Principles of Coaching (POC)
- Sportmanship
- First Aid, Health & Safety
Share your Sports Knowledge
Are you an experienced SOWV or sport coach interested in helping train other coaches in your community or around the state?
Contact Wendy Miller to learn how to become a Certified Clinician or Train-the Trainer.