Athlete Leadership University
Athlete Leadership University helps athletes build leadership skills and prepare for leadership roles.
How to Become an Athlete Leader
Athlete Leadership trainings will be held in person and explore a variety of topics designed to build confidence and leadership skills. To get started, athletes are required to complete two core modules that provide a strong foundation in leadership and help them see themselves as leaders who can make an impact within Special Olympics and their communities.
Introduction to Athlete Leadership introduces the three principles of athlete leadership, including Unified Leadership, and helps athletes begin identifying the leadership roles they’re most interested in.
Understanding Leadership defines what leadership is, highlights the qualities of effective leaders, and introduces six essential leadership skills woven throughout all trainings: communication, decision-making, adaptability, relationship building, action focus, and continuous improvement.
After completing both core modules, athletes can register for additional courses such as Athlete Representative, Athlete Spokesperson/Global Messenger, and Health Messenger.
If you would like to learn more about getting involved in Athlete Leadership University, click the button below to contact Mary-Ellen Powers.
Classes are held at our offices in Smithfield. Classes start at the end of August and go through May with a graduation celebration each June.
Introduction to Athlete Leadership introduces the three principles of athlete leadership, including Unified Leadership, and helps athletes begin identifying the leadership roles they’re most interested in.
Understanding Leadership defines what leadership is, highlights the qualities of effective leaders, and introduces six essential leadership skills woven throughout all trainings: communication, decision-making, adaptability, relationship building, action focus, and continuous improvement.
After completing both core modules, athletes can register for additional courses such as Athlete Representative, Athlete Spokesperson/Global Messenger, and Health Messenger.
If you would like to learn more about getting involved in Athlete Leadership University, click the button below to contact Mary-Ellen Powers.
Classes are held at our offices in Smithfield. Classes start at the end of August and go through May with a graduation celebration each June.
ALU Choice Majors
Participants will choose a “Major,” focusing on the leadership role they’re most interested in pursuing. Each Major includes a total of seven courses, divided across two semesters, to help athletes build the skills and confidence needed to succeed in their chosen role. Available Majors include:
Athlete Spokesperson
formerly known as Global Messenger
Athlete Representative
serving on committees
Healthy Athletes Messenger
serving as a health ambassador for Special Olympics Rhode Island and their team
Additional Information