What training and paperwork is required to become a coach?
All coaches must:
- Complete Local Program Volunteer requirements.
- Complete one of the following concussion awareness training courses. Certificate of Completion must be sent to Bridget Carleton. Training is valid for three years.
- Complete the Foundation of Special Olympics Coaching Course by January 1, 2022 (Course only has to be taken once, Certificate is valid for duration of time with SONH)
- Course description: A sport centered, athlete-focused, coach and volunteer-driven approach resulting in the improvement of the lives of Special Olympics New Hampshire athletes. The training session will involve critical elements/modules to help you be a more knowledgeable coach. This training is universal to all sports and will include fun, sport-specific exercises and is designed to be taken prior to sport specific training.
- Please note that if you coach multiple sports you only need to take The Foundation course once.
- Complete in-person Sports Specific Training Course (one per sport) within 24 months of completing LPV application of by January 1, 2022 (whichever is later). Sport Specific Certificate is valid for three years.
- During sport-specific training, coaches will have the opportunity to work with experienced clinicians and directly experience a model practice which allows them to better understand what challenges athletes face and how skills can be applied in competition. They will also leave with written practice plans for their sports season and it’s a great opportunity for networking with other coaches for other Local Programs before the upcoming season.
- Each Sport Specific Training will be one day in length. Sport Specific Training will be offered by sport and will follow the frequency listed below:
- If a sport has fewer than 100 athletes statewide – Sport Specific Training will be offered at least one time a year.
- If a sport has greater than 100 athletes statewide – Sport Specific Training will be offered at least twice a year.