Coaches Overview

Being a Special Olympics coach for the past 5 years has introduced me to a vibrant and energized community of individuals that face life's challenges with hard work, good humor, and much perseverance. We could all learn valuable lessons from these individuals.
                     -Ed Mclarty
                      Special Olympics TN Coach
Coaches are a critical component of Special Olympics’ work. A coach is a key figure in an athlete’s life, providing the sports skills and spirit that define a true athlete. Coaches serve as role models and character builders, giving Special Olympics athletes awareness of their worth, ability, courage and capacity to grow and improve. Special Olympics coaches also have a direct impact on athletes’ lives by helping them acquire skills that can influence their abilities to obtain employment, succeed in school and achieve personal goals.

Volunteer coaches come from all walks of life and backgrounds, and don’t need prior experience – we provide the necessary training and resources. To be a Special Olympics coach, all you need is a compassionate nature, a desire to help others and a lot of enthusiasm.

Become a coach and you’ll be joining an amazing team of individuals that includes former Olympians, college students, young professionals and a host of family members. Trade coaching tips and exercises, build new friendships and have a real impact on the lives of athletes. Being a Special Olympics coach can be one of the most rewarding experiences of a lifetime – for both you and the athletes you mentor.




   

Special Olympics Tennessee

Special Olympics coaches:

  • Obtain necessary facilities and equipment for training.
  • Help to recruit athletes and assistant coaches.
  • Assist athletes in learning sports skills and applying them in competitions
  • Encourage confidence and self-esteem through sport.
  • Conduct demonstrations in the community.
  • Start Unified Sports® teams.
Becoming a Special Olympics coach is easy...Click here to get started