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2	Special Olympics Kentucky 105 Lakeview Court Frankfort, KY 40601 (502) 695-8222 or 1-800-633-7403 (502) 695-0496 (fax) E-mail: soky@soky.org Web Site: www.soky.org Special Olympics Kentucky Louisville Office 1230 Liberty Bank Lane Suite 140 Louisville, KY 40222 1-800-633-7403 (502) 326-5002 (502) 326-3971 (fax)
3	VOLUNTEERS are the lifeblood of Special Olympics. Volunteers not only provide skills training for athletes, but serve as role models and character builders; giving Special Olympics athletes the most immediate awareness of their own worth, ability, courage and capacity to grow and improve.
4	"Volunteers in KY train in..." Volunteers in KY train in one or more of the 17 sports offered. The foundation for training all volunteers is the SOKY Volunteer Orientation.
5	"Special Olympics Mission" Special Olympics Mission To provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community.
6	Philosophy Special Olympics is founded on the beliefs that: People with intellectual disabilities can, with proper instruction and encouragement, learn, enjoy and benefit from participation in individual and team sports. Consistent training is essential to the development of sports skills. Competition among those of equal abilities is the most appropriate means of testing skills, measuring progress and providing incentives for personal growth. Through sports training and competition, people with intellectual disabilities benefit physically, mentally, socially, and spiritually; families are strengthened; and the community at large, both through participation and observation, comes to understand, respect and accept people with intellectual disabilities in an environment of equality.
7	The Oath Let Me win; but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.
8	Why Special Olympics Is Unique From Other Sports Organizations Special Olympics is more similar than different from other sports organizations. However, it is important to identify those areas that make Special Olympics unique: A variety of sports opportunities are provided for all ability levels Ability groupings are created through a process called divisioning to provide equitable competition for all athletes within each division or competitive level Awards are provided to all participants who compete
9	The Beginning The concept of Special Olympics was born in the early 1960’s when Mrs. Eunice Kennedy Shriver started a day camp for people with intellectual disabilities. She saw that people with intellectual disabilities were far more capable in sports and physical activities than many experts thought. In 1968, Mrs. Shriver created Special Olympics and organized the first International Special Olympics Games at Soldier Field in Chicago. Initial funding for the program came from the Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. Foundation. (This foundation was established in 1946 by the Kennedy Family to honor the memory of the oldest Kennedy child killed in World War 2. The mission of the Foundation has been to seek the prevention of intellectual disabilities and to improve the way society deals with its citizens who have intellectual disabilities). Athletes from 3 countries participated in these Games, the United States, Canada and France. Two Official sports were offered, Track & Field and Aquatics.
10	TODAY Around the World – there are accredited Special Olympics programs in more than 145 countries. In the United States – Special Olympics programs are established in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, the Virgin Islands and American Samoa. Volunteers – Today, there are more than 500,000 volunteers who organize and run local Special Olympics programs, serving as coaches, Games Officials, bookkeepers, etc.
11	2003 World Summer Games Were held June 20-29, 2003 in Dublin Ireland. At those games more than 7,000 athletes from 160 countries with competition offered in 19 sports. KY had twelve athletes and one unified partner compete at those games in the sports of equestrian, golf, bowling, aquatics, gymnastics and track & field.
12	"When:" When: Were held on February 26 – March 5, 2005 in Nagano, Japan. Who: 2,500 athletes from 80 countries 650 coaches 10,000 families and friends Sports: Alpine Skiing, Cross-Country Skiing, Snowboarding, Figure Skating, Snowshoeing and Floor Hockey
13	"Athletes Roger Kappesser and Jeannie..." Athletes Roger Kappesser and Jeannie Luerson, both from Louisville, competes in the sport of Figure Skating. SOKY was also represented by coaches Lorene Caudill, Assistant Figure Skating Coach for Team USA and Jimmie Johnson, Head Alpine Ski Coach for Team USA.
14	"When:" When: July 1-8, 2006 Where: Ames, Iowa Who: 46 Athletes from Kentucky 20 Coaches Sports: Aquatics, Basketball, Bowling, Gymnastics, Track & Field, Golf and Softball
15	February 1988 - Agreement with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Special Olympics is formally recognized by the IOC. Special Olympics is the only organization permitted to use the word “Olympics” in its title. The Olympic and Special Olympics have similar Opening Ceremonies, Closing Ceremonies and Award Ceremonies
16	History of Athlete Participation 1,000 athletes 1988 588,500 athletes 1990 750,000 athletes 2000 More than 1 million athletes from over 150 countries 2005 Projected two-million athletes worldwide
17	Facts on intellectual disabilities What is an Intellectual Disability? According to the new definition by the American Association on Mental Retardation (AAMR), an individual is considered to have an intellectual disability based on the following three criteria: intellectual functioning level (IQ) is below 70-75; significant limitations exist in two or more adaptive skill areas; and the condition manifests before the age of 18. Adaptive skill areas are those daily living skills needed to live, work, and play in the community. The new definition includes ten adaptive skills: communication, self-care, home living, social skills, leisure, health and safety, self-direction, functional academics, community use and work.
18	In the United States There are an estimated 7.5 million people with intellectual disabilities. This is approximately 1 to 3 percent of the U.S. population. Intellectual disabilities are: 10 times more prevalent than cerebral palsy 28 times more prevalent than neural tube defects such as spina bifida 25 times more prevalent than total blindness 50 times more prevalent than total deafness
19	What are the causes of Intellectual Disabilities Intellectual disabilities can be caused by any condition that impairs development of the brain before birth, during birth or in childhood years. Several hundred causes have been discovered, but in one-third of the people affected the cause remains unknown. The three major causes of intellectual disabilities are: Down Syndrome Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Fragile X Syndrome
20	Down Syndrome Occurs in 1 out of every 800 births Extra Chromosome 21 Characteristics may include Decreased muscle tone at birth Small skull Small mouth with protruding tongue Broad short hands Delayed mental & social skills Heart murmur
21	Fetal Alcohol Syndrome A series of mental & physical birth defects that include intellectual disabilities, growth deficiencies, central nervous system as a direct result of the mother drinking during pregnancy. Characteristics may include: Flat mid face Thin upper lips Low nasal bridge Minor ear abnormalities Children with fetal alcohol syndrome may have a hard time with school, trouble with the law and substance abuse.
22	Fragile X Syndrome Occurs in 1/1,250 males 1/2,000 females Mutation in a gene located on the X Chromosomes. Not obvious at birth Development delays delays in smiling rolling over recognizing parents sitting up/walking Characteristics may include long ears long face floppiness of muscles
23	Statement of Eligibility Special Olympics training & competition provided: Persons with Intellectual Disability Aged 8 years or older Registered with Special Olympics to participate, which includes medical exam and consent form.
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25	Special Olympics Divisioning Provide all competitors a chance to excel No more than 8 athletes per division Grouped by age, sex and ability
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27	TRAINING ATHLETES AND COACHES IN SPECIAL OLYMPICS Training of athletes and volunteers is very important to the success of any Special Olympics program. Athletes are expected to compete in events according to the rules and competition is expected to be fair and evenly contested, therefore, Special Olympics, at every level, has an obligation to see that all individuals involved in the program are trained. A good training program challenges an athlete to do his/her own personal best. Instead of always being content to train and compete in the 50 meter dash, a Special Olympics athlete should be encouraged to work toward competing in races of longer distances. Proper training also reduces sports injuries and increases safety awareness in sports. Finally, as training is provided for all athletes, events will match a trained athlete against another trained athlete, thus creating more equitable competition.
28	The training of volunteer Special Olympics coaches is of equal importance Adequate knowledge and understanding of individuals with intellectual disabilities, training in sports medicine and safety, and training in sport specific techniques all help to insure a more professional attitude toward Special Olympics coaching in the minds of all volunteers.
29	Why Special Olympics Enforces Rules Special Olympics competition is based on the principle that the enforcement of the Official rules is essential for athletes to develop to their full potential! When we enforce the rules of the sport, we do the following: Protect the rights of the athletes to fair and equal competition Uphold the integrity of the sport AND the worldwide Special Olympics movement Provide athletes with a safe competition environment Provide a critical foundation for setting goals and standards Prepare athletes for other community sports programs Prepare our athletes for every day life!
30	The Ideal Special Olympics Coach Trains his/her athletes to be competitive to win BUT DOES NOT PLACE ALL THE EMPHASIS ON WINNING! Is knowledgeable of the sport and the rules Respects his/her players and other volunteers Prepares for practice sessions Challenges his/or athletes! Adheres to all registration deadlines and keeps updated files on athlete’s medicals
31	As Special Olympics athlete Ben Collins said, “No Volunteers, No Special Olympics”
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33	Head Coach Assumes overall responsibility for the delegation, team, etc. A Head Coach must be at least 18 years of age and a responsible individual who can commit time on at least a weekly basis throughout the respective sport season. Some of the Head Coaches responsibilities include: •Ensuring that each athlete has a valid SOKY medical on file at the SOKY office in Frankfort and that a copy of each medical is with you at each practice and event. •Ensuring that all paperwork, (registration materials, medicals, etc.) is completed by deadlines. If the Head Coach can not do the paperwork, it is his/her responsibility to appoint a responsible person to do so. •Being up to date on all current rules for the sport in which you are coaching. •Making sure that athletes are trained appropriately for competition. •Adhering to the SOKY Coaches Code of Conduct
34	ASSISTANT COACH An Assistant Coach must be at least 16 years of age and a responsible individual who can commit time on at least a weekly basis throughout the respective sport season. TRAINING AND PAPERWORK REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL COACHES: • MUST attend a SOKY Volunteer Orientation. This is a one-time requirement and new coaches have a one-year grace period to complete. • Coaches and Chaperones 16 years of age or older, MUST acquire CLASS A Volunteer Status by having a Volunteer Registration (background check) Form approved. • SPORT SPECIFC TRAINING CERTIFICATION IS REQUIRED.
35	CHAPERONE Volunteers serving as chaperones can work one-day events or weekend events. Responsibilities might include escorting athletes to events, 24-hour supervision, transportation, etc. Chaperones must be at least 16 years of age and must attend a SOKY Volunteer Orientation (1 1/2 hour session). Must complete a Special Olympics Kentucky Volunteer Registration Form and be on Active Status.
36	ONE-DAY EVENT VOLUNTEERS Work at Local, Regional or State Level Tournaments or Competitions, i.e. bookkeeper for basketball or softball, timer on the track, lane worker for bowling, awards, etc. Some events may require attendance at a training session prior to the event. Events range in time commitment from 2-6 hours on the day of the event.
37	Local Coordinators To serve as a “Point of Contact” for local delegations OR anyone inquiring about the Special Olympics Kentucky program. This person would supply information to existing delegations and/or potential athletes, volunteers and sponsors. Local Coordinators must be at least 16 years of age and must attend a SOKY Volunteer Orientation (1 1/2 hour session). Must complete a Special Olympics Kentucky Volunteer Registration Form and be on Active Status.
38	Medical Team Provide medical services at events. Can be certified as an EMT, nurse, paramedic, doctor, etc. Must have basic first aid training and CPR certification.
39	Administrative Volunteers are need in the Frankfort and Louisville office. Volunteers would assist with bulk mail, data entry, filing, etc.
40	Photography Volunteers would take photos at SOKY event.
41	Entertainment Volunteers would assist in providing entertainment at SOKY events.
42	Unified Sports Unified Sports is a program that pairs Special Olympics athletes with peer athletes without intellectual disabilities. The peer athletes are called partners. All athletes in this program, (Special Olympics athlete and partner) need to have the necessary skill level to participate in the sport. Unified Sports is an important program because it expands sports opportunities for athletes and partners seeking new challenges. In addition, Unified Sports dramatically increases inclusion in the community by helping to break down barriers that have historically kept people with and without mental retardation apart. At the same time, Unified Sports provides a valuable sports opportunity to individuals who are not presently involved with Special Olympics or other sports programs. Unified Sports was created and developed by Special Olympics to further the overall mission of Special Olympics.
43	UNIFIED PARTNER Pair-up with a Special Olympics athlete to train together within the appropriate sport season and compete in Local, Regional, and State Level Tournaments. All partners are required to attend a SOKY Volunteer Orientation (1 1/2 hour session). Must complete a Special Olympics Kentucky Volunteer Registration Form and a Unified Sports Partner Form.
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45	Athlete Leadership Programs (ALPs) These programs allow athletes to explore opportunities for participation in roles previously considered “non-traditional.” Current Opportunities include: Athletes on Boards of Directors Athletes as Coaches Athletes as Officials Athletes as Global Messengers
46	Play Activities Work with children ages 5-7 with intellectual disabilities. Play activities are offered in Bumper bowling (Lexington, Louisville & Bowling Green) Organized Structured Play (Lexington & Louisville)
47	SPECIAL EVENTS/FUNDRAISING Work with the State development staff and/or Local programs to plan and implement special events to generate income for the SOKY program. Time commitment may be for a specific time period (i.e. serve on a committee that meets monthly) or on the day of a special event. No previous experience is required, just an interest in helping. Polar Bear Plunges Ride To Win Plane Pull Law Enforcement Torch Run (T-shirt sales)
48	Polar Bear Plunges Freezin’ For A Reason! Held in January & February in: Lexington, Newport, Owensboro, Louisville & Jamestown
49	Ride To Win August 5^th - Central KY 125 Mile Ride- Richmond, Winchester, Paris, Georgetown & Nicholasville Motorcycle ride to benefit Special Olympics Kentucky
50	Get Your Chance To Win A Harley-Davidson Road Glide Drawing held September 29th
51	Plane Pull Louisville & Lexington
52	SOKY OFFERS UNIFIED EVENTS IN THE FOLLOWING SPORTS: Aquatics Relays Bowling Golf Equestrian Relays Cheerleading Track & Field Relays Unified Partners must complete a Unified Partner Form and a Volunteer Form.
53	New Volunteer Screening Mandates Phase-In and Frequency of the Background Checks New Volunteers – Effective March 1, 2005, anyone wishing to participate in SOKY programs at any level as a Class A Volunteer must be screened and approved by the Program before they can become active. Existing Volunteers – Volunteers registered prior to March 1, 2005, must be screened no later than July 1, 2008. All Volunteers will be re-screened every three years. Questions about the new Volunteer Screening Policy should be directed to Teresa Capps-McGill or Kim Satterwhite at 1-800-633-7403.
54	New Volunteer Form
55	New Minor Volunteer Form
56	SOKY OFFERS THE FOLLOWING SPORTS: Aquatics * Track & Field * Basketball * Tennis Bocce’ Volleyball Bowling * Equestrian * Alpine Skiing * Roller Skating Figure Skating Soccer (5 a-side) * Speed Skating Softball * Cheerleading * Gymnastics (rhythmic & artistic)* Powerlifting * Golf * * SOKY currently offers State Level Competition in these sports.
57	Coach Education Program Coaches must achieve the beginning certification level within two years upon entering Special Olympics to become a coach. In order to maintain and/or upgrade coach certification, a coach continues approved coach education. Each coach is required to upgrade their knowledge and experience at least once every three years.
58	Goals and Benefits Promotes the mission of Special Olympics Provides athletes with the safest and most effective training sessions possible Enhances coaches’ training and coaching skills Keeps coaches up to date with current rules and training techniques Provides Programs and coaches flexibility in training formats Provides a baseline of sport information for all Special Olympics coaches Insures coaching consistency, worldwide Demonstrates sport and Program credibility Provides a measure of protection against liability
59	Prerequisites Fill out a volunteer registration form Complete the Volunteer Orientation/Protective Behaviors Course Coach must pass the accompanying training quizzes Goal is to eventually offer this course on-line Pass a criminal background check and become a Class A volunteer
60	Level 1 Coach has fulfilled prerequisites Participate in either a Basic Skills Course OR Coaching Special Olympics Athletes Course Complete a 10-hour practicum
61	Sport Specific Coaches Clinic COACHES WILL BE REQUIRED TO BE CERTIFIED IN EACH SPORT THEY COACH. The Coaches Clinic is a five to six (5-6) hour, sport-specific clinic designed for volunteers, parents, and others who intend to coach Special Olympics athletes. Clinic topics include: • Athlete assessment • Official events • Sports Rules (SOKY Modifications) • Skills • Practice organization • Sport-specific drills • Competition • Training Special Olympics Kentucky provides handouts and sport-specific training guides. To be considered for a coaching spot for World Games, one must meet the above requirements. The clinic is a REQUIRED component in the coach’s certification process.
62	Level 2 Coach has fulfilled all Level 1 requirements Complete Principles of Coaching Course
63	Level 3 Coach has fulfilled all Level 2 requirements Complete a Tactics Course in the sport being coached OR Complete an ASEP Online Course Courses currently offered online include: Basketball, Soccer, Softball, Tennis, Volleyball
64	Level 4 Coach has fulfilled all Level 3 requirements Complete a Comprehensive Mentor Program Turn in completed and signed program log
65	Coaches Code of Conduct Special Olympics Coaches are models whose behavior should serve as a positive example for their athletes. Their behavior should reflect a concern that the fairest and most positive competitive experience is equally available to every Special Olympian in a competition. The Coach has the unique opportunity to influence the development and personal growth of many individuals. For this reason, it is important that the coach adhere to the standards of ethical decision making and teaching. Recognizing this point, it is the position of SOKY that the coach shall: • provide a good example in appearance, conduct, language and sportsmanship while striving to set an example of the highest ethical and moral conduct. • demonstrate and instill in their players a respect for and courtesy toward the opposing players, coaches, officials and spectators. • exhibit and develop in their players the ability to accept defeat or victory gracefully. The coach shall never place the value of winning above the value of instilling the highest desirable ideals of character.
66	Athlete Code of Conduct Participation in Special Olympics Kentucky is both an honor and a privilege. Therefore, every athlete shall abide by the letter and spirit of the rules and be responsible for conducting themselves with appropriate behavior and in a sportsmanlike manner at all times. Special Olympics Kentucky athletes are expected to conduct themselves in such a way that is both safe and courteous to others and themselves. Athletes who do not conduct themselves in this manner, or who are offensive by action or language toward other athletes, coaches, volunteers, opponents, officials and/or spectators, may be immediately disqualified from further participation at that event or activity. Continuous, inappropriate actions could result in suspension or expulsion from participation in the program.
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68	Directions for Completing Athlete Medicals ATHLETE INFORMATION: Name - Athlete’s first, middle, and last name Nickname - Fill out if different from first name Social Security # - Athlete’s social security number Address/City/State/Zip – Athlete’s home address Sex – Check M for Male or F for Female Date of Birth – List month, date, and year Phone Number – Athlete’s home phone number Name of Parent or Guardian – Athlete’s parent or guardian; first and last name Address/City/State/Zip – Parent or guardian’s complete address Phone Number – Parent or Guardian’s phone number County – County that the athlete lives in School/Group – List organization or group athlete is affiliated with Coach – Athlete’s coaches first and last name Has this individual participated in Special Olympics within the past 5 years? Check yes if athlete has participated and check no if the athlete hasn’t.
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70	ATLANTOAXIAL SUBLUXATION There is evidence from medical research that up to 10% of individuals with Down Syndrome suffer from a malalignment of the cervical vertebrae C-1 and C-2 in the neck. This condition exposes Down Syndrome individuals to the possibility of injury if they participate in activities that hyper-extend or radically flex the neck or upper spine. Athletes with Down Syndrome are not allowed to participate in activities which, by their nature, result in hyperextension, radical flexion or direct pressure on the neck or upper spine. Such activities include: gymnastics, diving, equestrian, pentathlon, butterfly stroke in swimming, high jump, alpine skiing, soccer and any warm-up exercise that places undue stress on the head and neck.
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72	Parent/Family Expectations • You are expected to transport your son or daughter to and from each practice OR make sure that appropriate arrangements have been made. • You are expected to support any delegation/team fundraising activities. Money may be needed to purchase equipment, uniforms, pay tournament fees, cover travel expenses, etc. • If your delegation/team plans to participate in an event that will involve travel, you may be asked to help with transportation, (i.e. Area and State level events). • If your son or daughter displays behavior problems, you will be asked to participate in practice and will be required to attend competitive events to chaperone. • Athletes are expected to dress properly for practice and competition. It is your responsibility to assure the proper clothing is worn. • Each athlete is required to have a valid Special Olympics medical on file with the State Office. Parents/Guardians should keep a copy of the medical and are RESPONSIBLE for providing a copy to the respective coach. If you currently do not have a copy of the medical please call the SOKY Office today and request one. Please know that medicals are good for 3 years and expire 3 years from the date of the physicians signature.
73	Working With Special Olympics Athletes . Be yourself - Use your normal voice and give support. Try not to over praise. . Excessive hugging and kissing is NOT appropriate. Encouraging pats on the back or handshakes is also another way of praising and athlete. Let the athlete take the lead as to what recognition they would be comfortable with. . Get to know the athlete - there may be opportunities to sit and talk to a child or an adult and get to know who they are, where they work, go to school, etc. . Expect and encourage appropriate behavior AND sportsmanship throughout the event.
74	WORDS MATTER! APPROPRIATE • A person has intellectual disabilities, rather than suffering from, afflicted with or a victim of intellectual disabilities . • Individuals, persons or people with intellectual disabilities • Distinguish between adults and children with intellectual disabilities. • Refer to participants in Special Olympics as athletes. • A person uses a wheelchair rather than is confined or restricted to a wheelchair. • Down Syndrome has replaced ‘Down’s Syndrome’ and Mongoloid.
75	NOT APPROPRIATE • Do NOT use the label kids when referring to Special Olympics athletes. Adult athletes are an integral part of the program. • Do NOT use the adjective unfortunate when talking about persons with intellectual disabilities. • Do NOT use the word the in front of Special Olympics.
76	Special Olympics Structure
77	Area Map
78	SOKY Staff Responsibilities – Quick List Listed on pages 41-43 of your handbook
79	"Click here to take the..." Click here to take the Volunteer Orientation Quiz (required to complete course)
80	Special Olympics Thanks You Training is the key Competition is the means Skill, confidence, courage & joy are the outcomes Better preparation for life is the goal Lifelong skills & increased independence are the results
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