Let me win.
But if I cannot win,
Let me be brave
In the attempt.
~ Special Olympics Oath

Become a Coach

A Coach speaking with an athlete.

Local Program Coordinators and Coaches

Our local program coordinators and coaches are the heart and soul of our volunteer movement. Over 400 dedicated individuals volunteer their time and talents, many year-round, to provide our athletes with optimal training opportunities and other life-enriching experiences.

Special Olympics Rhode Island takes great pride in the talents of these individuals and most will tell you, "They get more out of being involved in Special Olympics than they could ever give back."

This section is intended to provide those individuals with the information necessary to carry out their responsibilities.

Head Coach

The head coach is responsible for a team – and all aspects of it – just like any other sports organization. SORI requires that all head coaches complete the Class A Volunteer requirements and strongly encourages each head coach to become certified in the sport. (Each team attending a competition must have at least one certified coach on its coaching staff)

In addition, head coaches are expected to ensure the following responsibilities are carried out:

  • Attend all sports meeting pertaining to specific sports.
  • Encourage assistant coaches to become certified.
  • Maintain athlete records and complete registration process for competition.
  • Assess each athlete to determine appropriate skill level for training and competition.
  • Develop an 8-10 week training program for the team (or each athlete for skills event) including fundamental skills, conditioning and rules.
  • Conduct well organized practices, utilizing assistant coaches and team volunteers.
  • Have complete knowledge of and abide by sports rules of Special Olympics.
  • Attend competitions with the athletes.

Assistant Coach

  • Assist in assessing each athlete to determine skill level for competition and training.
  • Assist in developing 8-10 week training program for each athlete including fundamental skills, conditioning and rules.
  • Attend competitions with athletes.
  • Have knowledge and abide by sports rules of Special Olympics.

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