Call Out for Coaches!

Show your support and become part of the SOTX family

For Immediate Release: May 3, 2008

Special Olympics Texas wants YOU to sign up now to become a certified coach. There are currently 2,848 certified SOTX coaches across the state. Because of the popularity and growth of Special Olympics, our goal is to increase that number. A positive sports experience starts with the coach. Are you up for the challenge?

A head coach must be at least 18 years old, but an assistant coach can begin at the age of 15. As a SOTX coach, you have the power to lead and shape the lives of athletes in a positive way. You provide the sports skills and spirit that when instilled, define a true athlete. You give Special Olympics athletes the most immediate awareness of their self-worth, ability, courage, and capacity to grow and improve.

You do not have to be a sports expert or have coaching experience to be a certified coach. SOTX staff will work hard to train you and teach you the skills needed in order to help our athletes succeed.

How can you be a certified coach? Just follow the six simple steps:

Complete General Orientation Training (online or in person)
Complete Protective Behaviors Training (online or in person)
Attend a sports specific training session
Work a minimum of 10 hours with SOTX athletes in a sport
Submit a copy of your Practicum Form to your area office
Be a registered Class A volunteer with SOTX (online or in person)

If you would like more information on how to become a certified coach, contact your local area office, or call 800.876.JOIN.

Kelly Coffey
Vice President of Communications
Special Olympics Texas
kcoffey@sotx.org