Coaches Training and Progression Plan

 
​We are excited you want to know more about advancing as a Special Olympics Coach! 
This SOAR Coach Training and Progression Plan will guide coaches through our education system and provide opportunity to enhance their skills

​Download this entire checklist for yourself here.   Coach must attach the 2nd page with each portion they completed checked off along with paperwork verifying each requirement is completed. 

CERTIFIED COACH
  • ​Must have current   Protective Behaviors, Concussion Training   Concussion Awareness Policy  course options :   NFHS Concussion    or   CDC Concussion  (both completed online) & General Orientation   ( in person or virtual education course)
  •  Complete Waiver and Release for Communicable Diseases  (provided in the downloadable checklist  above)
  • Must have a current   Class A Volunteer Form/background check completed
  • Certified in a minimum of one sport – In person training   Calendar of Events   .   Online Sport Specific Trainings will be offered by Special Olympics Arkansas
  • Maintain your sport certification by taking approved continuing education courses once   every three   years   (found on the website)
  • Those coaching in Unified Sports complete the course “Coaching Unified Sports” (This can be taken face   ​to face at pre-determined locations throughout SOAR or on-line, both are free of charge)

BRONZE LEVEL COACH
The Bronze Level requires a coach to complete the basic level above. Bronze Level enhancements include education course, Coaching Special Olympics Athletes and implementing Fit 5 for athlete training

  • Complete all Certified Coach Level requirements
  • Have coached Special Olympics Athletes for a minimum of one year
  • Complete CPR Certification
  • Actively participate in Fit 5 Wellness Program (turn in yearly exercise, nutrition and hydration tracking sheet)
  • Complete the course “Coaching Special Olympics Athletes”. (You can take this course “Face to Face” for   free at pre-determined locations throughout SOAR or on-line for $19.95.)​ ​

SILVER LEVEL COACH
​Level required of Head Coaches attending USA National Games in the specific sport being coached.
The Silver Level requires the coach achieve Bronze Level. Enhancements for coaches in the this level include education course, Principals of Coaching, athlete goal setting, athlete leadership, and year round training
​
  • Complete all Bronze Coach Level requirements
  • Appoint an athlete to lead Healthy Habits/Fitness for a portion of practice.  ( Resources for Wellness Plan    /   Wellness Resources)
  • Include individual athlete goal setting in your trainings
  • Increase your training program from 8 weeks to 12 weeks      (Must send example of your training schedule) Training examples one and two 
  • Complete the course “Coaching Essentials”.this course is 19.95 online or You can take our principals of coaching course  “Face to Face” for free at pre-determined locations throughout SOAR.)

GOLD LEVEL COACH
Level required of Coaches attending World Games.
The Gold Level coaches must have exceeded all other levels. This level includes advance tactics for sport of choice and work, two elective courses, and tracking athlete advancement and personal bests
Elective Courses and additional training resources for all Special Olympics Arkansas Coaches​
Recognition and Incentive Plan:
Coaches that complete the bronze and silver level will receive a lanyard in the color of their level, gold level coaches receive a lanyard and t-shirt.  Special Olympics Arkansas has a coaches recognition program for coach's that exceed basic certified level!

**Special Olympics Arkansas is not responsible for the cost of any education course