It’s Fun & Rewarding
Coach With Us
Coaching with Special Olympics is one of the most vital and fulfilling volunteer roles in our organization. You’ll learn inclusive coaching techniques and valuable strategies for fostering a positive environment. We offer comprehensive training, allowing you to focus on your passion. Whether you’re an experienced coach or new to the field, you’ll receive ongoing support and networking opportunities to make a lasting impact on our remarkable athletes’ lives. Beyond coaching, it’s an opportunity to help our athletes expand their skills, build confidence, and develop a newfound sense of self-worth. Use your gifts to encourage athletes with disabilities while fostering a more inclusive community across the Hoosier state.
Coach Spotlight
Tito
Castillo
For nearly a decade, Coach Tito has walked the sidelines for ROD basketball. He volunteers his time and energy to share his love of sports with the athletes. And he asks just one thing back: “Smiles.” Tito does not have a family member in the program, which makes his journey different than many coaches. He could not imagine better front-row seats to any other team. His approach is compete hard, have fun and maintain perspective. Sounds like a winning formula.
Coaches interest form
Complete this form to express interest in becoming a coach for Special Olympics Indiana.
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State Office Contact
Review Your Eligibility
Levels & Requirements
To be a coach with Special Olympics Indiana, there are certification requirements. View specifications below.
Level 1
Level 1: Achieving Class A Volunteer Status
Level 1 Coach Certification is obtaining Class A Volunteer status – the minimum requirement for any coach.
- Coach / Volunteer Application
- Background Screening
- Coach / Volunteer Orientation (CVO)
- Protective Behaviors Training
- Concussion Awareness Training
If you are not a coach, but would like to become one, click here to start the Level 1 certification process.
Level 2
Level 2: Coaching at the State and National Level
For coaches to achieve Level 2 certification, he/she must have Level 1 certification (Class A status) and complete the following 4 courses.
- Coaching Special Olympics Athletes (from Human Kinetics Coach Education Center)
- Coaching Unified Sports (from the NFHS Learning Center)
- Sports Nutrition (from the NFHS Learning Center)
- Sportsmanship (from the NFHS Learning Center)
- Sport Specific Trainings: In-Person and Virtual Opportunities Available. Please email Katie Hilt to learn more. ([email protected])
Level 3
Level 3: Coaching at a Global Level
For coaches to achieve Level 3 certification, he/she must have Level 2 certification and complete the following 4 courses. All 4 courses are from the NFHS Learning Center.
- Fundamentals of Coaching
- Concussion in Sports
- Creating a Safe and Respectful Environment
- Heat Illness Prevention
*To serve as the head coach for Powerlifting, Flag Football, or Equestrian, you must complete sport specific training prior to conducting practice. For more information, contact Katie Hilt ([email protected]).