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Sportsmanship Sportsmanship Course
The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) developed a complimentary course to give you a better understanding of sportsmanship and how it impacts your specific role in modeling it at all practices and competitions. Insight is shared throughout the course from fans, players, parents, coaches and officials.
The free course takes about 15 minutes to complete and can be found in the NFSH website. This is an extra resource for local programs and coaches, but it is not currently a part of SONC's certification process. Once the course is complete, each coach will receive a certificate. If you have any questions, please contact Andrea Stamm.
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Coach
 “It’s the experience – not the disabiity – that makes it ‘special’” – Stayce Hedgecock of High Point
Special Olympics coaches play an indispensable role in the success of this sports program. Despite it being one of the most demanding responsibilities you may ever take on, we challenge you to find one more rewarding! Special Olympics North Carolina (SONC) local programs are always in need of good coaches. Whether you are a high school coach or the local librarian, we can use your help. Visit the page for your
local program (county)
to see if a sport of interest to you is offered in your community and to see the coaching needs of your local program.
View past issues of the Coaches’ Clipboard newsletter in case you missed something!
SONC also needs sport-knowledgeable volunteers in key leadership roles for local, area, and state-level events as officials, competition mangement, etc. To find out what opportunities we have available, contact Katie Lockhart.
Protective Behaviors
All coaches and those within leadership roles are classified as Class A volunteers and are required take Protective Behaviors training every three years. This is an online course so coaches may learn how to recognize and handle signs of abusive behaviors. The test takes about 15 minutes to complete, and you will be able to see your results instantly. They will also be sent directly to SONC. |
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If you do not know where to start, fill out this coach interest form.
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Privacy Statement
Special Olympics athletes deserve well-trained coaches, and SONC offers a comprehensive training program to prepare you for this volunteer role. Prior experience is not necessary - SONC will provide you with everything you need to know!
An important document to remind past, present, and future coaches about the role of the coach in the athletes experience with Special Olympics.

Coach’s Oath
This oath is recited by an SONC coach during Opening Ceremonies at all state-level events.
“In the name of all coaches and in the spirit of sportsmanship, I promise that we will act professionally, respect others, and ensure a positive experience for all. I promise to provide quality sports and training opportunities in a safe environment for all athletes.”

In addition to sports training and competitions happening every day at the local program level, SONC athletes have the opportunity to compete in events at the state, national and even international level!

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