Coach Training Criteria

Minimum Requirements and Standards
All accredited programs must conduct approved coach education in accordance with the Official Special Olympics General Rules. Programs have three options:

Implementing the Special Olympics Coach Education System;

1. Submitting documentation verifying that Special Olympics Coach Education System Standards and Competencies are achieved within their own system; OR
2. Submitting a plan for implementing the approved coach education system.
   

To receive Special Olympics coach certification, an individual will:

• Attend an approved course, training seminar, or mentoring program;
• Complete the prescribed exam, workbook, etc. as applicable;
• Complete a specified practicum of working with Special Olympics athletes; AND
• Be authorized by a Special Olympics Program representative verifying such experiences and coaching competencies.

Coaches must achieve the beginning certification level within four years upon entering Special Olympics to become a coach. In order to maintain and/or upgrade coach certification, a coach continues approved coach education. Each coach upgrades knowledge and experience at least once every four years.