Help our Athletes Achieve Their Goals
Special Olympics coaches inspire and train our athletes to achieve their athletic and life goals. They come from all walks of life, including former and current athletes, high school and college students, professionals, family members, and members of the community.
You, too, can teach the skills and nurture the spirit that defines a true athlete by becoming a Special Olympics Connecticut (SOCT) coach. Being a coach is typically an 8 to 12-week commitment per sports season.
Featured Coach
"What lets me be a good coach and do this is the happiness I see when an athlete overcomes his or her disability and accomplishes their goal they set no matter how small the task is. I actually think I get more out of it than they do sometimes, but to be a part of it and see that sense of accomplishment in them is great."
-Steve Manzone, Special Olympics Newington
How To Become A New SOCT Coach
Getting Started
To receive Special Olympics Certified Coach certification, an individual must be at least 18 years of age and successfully complete the following forms and trainings:
Interested in becoming a new SOCT coach? Fill out the form below to get started!
Complete the Class A Volunteer form
Volunteer: Class A Application
Volunteer: Class A Application Online (Web Version)
Complete the online Protective Behaviors training
Complete the General Orientation, which provides a basic introduction to SOCT (Completion of the General Orientation does not expire)
Download General Orientation Information
Complete a Concussion Awareness Training course. Concussion Awareness Training courses can be taken online with either the CDC or NFHS. Once completed, please email the completed course certificate to Derrick Ford at derrickf@soct.org.
Take the Course on the CDC Website
Take the Course on the NFHS Website
Attend and participate in an SOCT approved sports-specific Coaches Training. Upcoming Coaches Training sessions can be found on our Event Calendar.
Upcoming Training Events For Coaches
Coaching Excellence
SOCT is committed to Coaching Excellence. One of our top Coaching Excellence goals calls for ongoing coaches' education to provide the highest and most up-to-date level coaching knowledge. Visit our Coaches Resources page for more information on recertification requirements, sports rules, coaching guide, and more.
Contact Us
If you have any questions or would like additional information about becoming a Special Olympics Coach, please fill out our form below or contact Derrick Ford at derrickf@soct.org or 203-230-1201 ext 272.