5 Tips to Recruit Coaches in Your County

Coaches are the heart of the Special Olympics. They inspire athletes, cultivate skills and help create inclusive communities through sports.

Recruiting coaches can be challenging. Special Olympics Indiana’s Campaign for Coaches is working to help county programs identify and bring these individuals into their programs.

Here’s some tips on how you can do this as well.

Start with the Mission

When recruiting coaches, lead with purpose. Special Olympics isn’t just about sports. It’s about empowerment, inclusion and transformation.

Most people don’t realize how life-changing coaching can be, not just for the athletes, but for the coaches themselves. Share stories and testimonials from your current coaches who can speak to the emotional reward and sense of connection they’ve experienced.

Tap into Networks

Target your outreach to groups already aligned with your mission. These include:

• Local universities and colleges (especially those with sports science, education or social work programs).
• Community sports leagues and fitness centers.
• Retired athletes or PE teachers.
• Military veterans (who often value structure, teamwork, and service).
• Corporate volunteer programs.

Special Olympics Indiana can provide simple flyers, emails and social media posts tailored to coaches, making it easy to understand how to get involved and what’s expected.

Ask your regional manager about these.

Clarify Expectations and Support

Potential volunteers may be hesitant if they feel unqualified. Emphasize that coaching at Special Olympics is about heart and commitment, not elite sports experience.

Provide clear information about:

• Training and certification offered through Special Olympics.
• Time commitment and season length.
• Support systems in place, including experienced mentors.

Break the myth that they need to be former pro or college athletes. Many successful coaches are parents, college students and community members with no formal coaching background.

Make it Personal

The most effective recruitment tool? A personal ask. People are far more likely to say yes when someone they know believes they’re right for the role.

Encourage current coaches, staff and volunteers to personally invite friends, family or coworkers to try coaching.

Host “Try It” days where prospective coaches can shadow a practice session or assist in a scrimmage. Once people experience the joy and energy firsthand, they’re far more likely to commit.

Celebrate and Retain

Recruiting new coaches is only half the battle. Retaining them is just as important.

Recognize their efforts, share feedback from athletes and families and create a culture of appreciation. Publicly highlight their impact through newsletters, social media shoutouts or local news features.

When coaches feel valued and connected, they become your greatest ambassadors.