General Coach Resources
Please note that Protective Behaviors and Concussion Training Courses must be completed through the SO Learn Portal. Create an account and login with the Special Olympics (SO) Learning Portal to create an account and complete these courses. Click here for more detail on the 2020-2021 SONC Coach Education and Development Program.
For a breakdown of certification levels and renewal requirements, see the SONC Coaches Education and Development Grid.
The following trainings are free (unless where noted) and available to anyone wishing to advance their knowledge.
A Coach’s Playbook: Introduction to Autism and Instructional Strategies for Coaching – An online training for those seeking how to best work with their athletes with autism.
Sportsmanship – A free course offered through the National Federation of High School Athletic Associations (NFHS).
Coaching Adapted Sports – A free course offered through NFHS. This course is intended to adapt sports to those with physical disabilities.
Heat Illness Prevention – A free course offered through NFHS. A great resource for coaches of sports that take place outdoors at the SONC Summer Games.
Positive Sport Parenting – A free course offered through NFHS. Parents and caregivers are your partners in the Special Olympics athletes’ sports journey. Encourage them to take this course so you can all be on the same page and contribute to the athletes’ well being as a sport participant.
American Red Cross Adult First Aid/CPR/AED Online Training ($30) – Online training offered by the American Red Cross. Certification is good for two years from the date of completion.
Without rules, Special Olympics would not be a sports training and competition organization. Here are some documents that better explain how these rules affect coaches and how they can prepare their athletes and coaching teams to be successful in their sport pursuits.
Special Olympics Divisioning – a web page dedicated to the unique principal that differentiates Special Olympics from other sport organizations. A great resource for new coaches and refresher for veteran coaches.
Competition Guide for Coaches – a concise guide from Special Olympics, Inc. that illustrates the core principals of Special Olympics sports competitions from Article 1 in an easy-to-read format. Great information for new and veteran coaches.
The Coach and Competition Series: Pt. 1 – Before Competition – an excellent resource for new and veteran coaches that explains the role of the coach in preparing athletes for competition at all levels. This includes the importance of accurate entry scores, maximum effort explanation, and athlete readiness for competition.
The Coach and Competition Series: Pt. 2 – At Competition – an excellent resource for new and veteran coaches that explains the role and responsibilities of a coach at a competition. This includes preparing athletes for staging, explaining disqualifications, appropriate coach attire, and setting non-placement goals for athletes and teams.
Filing a protest during competition – a flowchart that describes the appropriate situations whereby a coach may file a protest during competition and how the protest is processed. Protests must be filed with the competition manager at the venue as within 30 minutes of the infraction. Please note that there are further requirements on who may submit a protest, including only SONC Level 2 or higher certified coaches in the sport may file the protest. The competition manager will provide instructions on how to file an official protest.
Special Olympics, Inc. Article I of Sports Rules – This is where you can read about general sport rules regarding everything from advancement to how we as a global movement conduct awards.
For the more non-sport information about Special Olympics North Carolina, as well as links to the Special Olympics, Inc General Rules and SONC Operating Policies, please click here.
Getting Your Season Started
SONC recommends starting four months out from the culminating event. For example, an athletics coach would start planning in February if planning to take athletes to Summer Games. Use these tools below to ensure a successful start to the season.
- Season Kick-Off Agenda Topics: Use this document as a template to build your kick-off meeting to set expectations and provide information to all involved.
- Season Kick-Off Agenda Template
- Facility Checklist: Use this checklist to ensure a safe and appropriate sport training environment.
- Equipment Checklist: Use this checklist to ensure you have the proper equipment for practice and competitions.
- Example team budget: Use this team budget example as a guide to create a budget for your team this season.
Communication Resources
Whether is it on or off the field, communicating effectively to your athletes and their family members/caregivers is the key for a successful sport season.
- Team Communication Spreadsheet: Use this spreadsheet created by one of your fellow SONC coaches to track your teams contact information.
- Team Snap: Free online team messaging app to message parents, athletes and Unified partners.
- Team App: Free online team messaging app to send messages, schedules, photos and reminders to parents, athletes, and Unified partners.
Planning an Effective Practice and Training Session
Whether you have two hours or 20 minutes with your athletes (spoiler alert: practices should be longer than 20 minutes), make the most of your time with them by planning ahead.
- Components of an Effective Practice Plan: Use this guide to start creating effective practice plans for your season.
- Athlete skill evaluation checklist: Use this evaluation checklist to assess your athletes sport skills, knowledge of the sport and overall health and fitness. This information will help shape the way you plan, execute and review your practice sessions.
- Practice/training session template: Use this template to plan out your practices for the season.
- Sport Plan: Free online resource with access to hundreds of existing practice plans and templates.
- Warm-up and cool-down: Emphasize the importance of warm-up and cool-down in practices while giving practical tips and online resources
Additional Resources
Use these additional resources to provide your athletes and coaching staff with the tools needed for a successful season.
- Athlete Goals for the Season: Use this resource to have athletes set their season goals.
- Team Goals for the Season: Set and track your team goals for the season.
- Sport Training Log: Give this to your athletes to help them keep track of their training progress throughout the season.
- Sports Schedule and Contact List for Athletes: Athletes can keep track of their practice schedules, teammates and coaches all in one document.
We all know that athletes that are physically fit, eat a well-balanced diet, and are mentally prepared perform better at their sport. Many times, the Special Olympics coach is the biggest influence in an athlete’s life as a sports participant, and will follow your example. Here are some tools Special Olympics has prepared to help coaches with their role as health and wellness influencers.
How to get your Fit 5 – this guide teaches the three simple goals of exercising 5 days per week, eating 5 total fruits and vegetables per day and drinking 5 water bottles of water.
Fit 5 Fitness Cards – flashcards of simple exercises that can be done at practice, at the gym, or even at home!
Fit 5 Tracker – download and print this document to track six weeks of tracking the Fit 5 – or any – program.
Fit 5 Exercise Videos – exercise videos led by SO athletes.
Staying Fit at Home – this calendar takes the guesswork out of working out. Download this calendar to follow what types of exercises to do on what days each week! Use it as a template to get your athletes to stay fit at home!
Cooking Healthy with Hanna – watch these great videos lead by Special Olympics Colorado athlete, Hanna, as she teaches athletes about kitchen safety, cooking and healthy eating.
Fitness and nutrition resource library – SONC has assembled all our resources to help athletes, coaches and families stay fit and motivated during the COVID-19 pandemic. From Fit5 to the WWE & Special Olympics School of Strength, there is something here for everyone! For more resources visit the SONC Health & Wellness page.
Interested in being a wellness coach? Many local programs offer wellness programs for the athletes to participate in whether it is at practice or a standalone program. As a wellness coach you can either follow a Special Olympics program such as SOfit or you may offer your own wellness program for local athletes to participate in. Please email health@sonc.net to get started today!
Here are some general documents that you might find helpful on your journey to become a Special Olympics North Carolina coach. Included are coaching guides, role descriptions, and codes of conduct. Please contact sports@sonc.net if you have a specific question.
General Coaching Guides
- Athlete-Centered Coaching Guide – We want our coaches to be dedicated to the team by committing to learning more about their sport and their athletes. This is a guide to assessing your athlete’s individual strengths, potential challenges, and personality traits that make each of your team members unique.
- Quick Reference Coaching Guide – This is a basic guide to coaching athletes with intellectual disabilities, focusing on some behaviors often associated with intellectual disability. They will help you to improve athlete learning and give them a more enjoyable Special Olympics sport experience.
The Coaching Team
Codes of Conduct
Concussion Information and Protocols
Wonder how to get started with a virtual training session? Your First Virtual Coaching Session has some great tips and even an agenda!
This General Coaching and Training Resources and Guidance is chock full of great online resources for furthering your coaching knowledge.
Try this Sport Specific Coaching and Training Resource if you are stuck on what type of exercises or drills you can give your athletes to fill their time!
Are you wondering what format is best for you to connect with your athletes in the virtual world? Check out SOI Top 3 Tools for Virtual Coaching Sessions for answers as well as which formats are free.
Sometimes, all an athlete has to connect them to the world outside is their cell phone number. Check out Keep on Coaching without Technology on tips to stay in touch with those athletes without the internet.
Alpine Skiing
Coming soon!
Resources to help alpine ski athletes train at home.
Updates and Recertification
Sport certifications must be updated every three years. Take this quick test to recertify in alpine skiing.
Coaching Guides
- Special Olympics Alpine Skiing Quick Start Guide – printable version
- Special Olympics Alpine Skiing Quick Start Guide – digital version
- Special Olympics Alpine Skiing Coaching Guide – this is a longer, more detailed version of the alpine skiing coaching guide and includes more information on training
- Dry Land Ski Course
- Dry Land Ski Course Instructions
Additional Coach Resources
Some trainings may have an associated cost. Please check with your local program coordinator before purchasing if you will wish to be reimbursed for this expense.
- Ski Tips – Gripping the Snow for Intermediate Skiers
- Alpine Skiing Training Camp for Athletes and Coaches
SONC offers four competitive events in alpine skiing, accommodating all ability levels and competition interests from beginner to advanced.
The glide is for athletes just learning how to ski where the terrain has a gentle slope with no turns. Coaches are allowed to assist athletes at this level.
The super glide is the next level where the terrain is slightly steeper than the glide, but also does not have turns.
Athletes competing in the novice slalom will ride a ski lift and ski on steeper terrain, weaving through a number of gates on their way to the finish.
Athletes in the intermediate slalom will experience a more challenging terrain than the novice slalom, with an increased number of gates.
Athletes competing in advanced slalom ski on the most challenging terrain (commonly referred to as the “black” runs), and experience tighter turns and more gates in their competition.
Watch this video about alpine skiing updates for the 2020-2021 program year.
SONC Alpine Skiing-Snowboarding Rule Modifications – This document is updated by the beginning of each program year and indicates where SONC has modified existing Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI) or National Governing Body (NGB) rules.
SOI Official Sport Rules for Alpine Skiing – This is a link to the rules document produced by Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI). SOI updates these rules every two years.
United States Ski and Snowboard Association – This is a link to the NGB rules in effect for the SONC season.
Always communicate with your local coordinator if you are interested in submitting registration for an event.
Special Olympics North Carolina Winter Games – Alpine Skiing and Snowboarding Registration Forms
- SONC Winter Games Event Registration
- Special Olympics Clothing Rental Form
Local program coordinators should submit entries along with the remainder of the Winter Games registration. Click here for a full list of Winter Games registration forms. These forms will be available closer to the event date. Additionally, find information about the event on the SONC Winter Games – Alpine Skiing and Snowboarding event page.
Special Olympics Southeast U.S. Winter Games – Alpine Skiing and Snowboarding Registration Forms
If you would like to register the exact same delegation as for SONC Winter Games – Alpine Skiing and Snowboarding, please let us know by contacting registration@sonc.net. No additional paperwork is needed, but we will need to know by Tuesday, December 31, 2019.
- Southeast U.S. Winter Games Event Registration
Athletics (track & field)
Coming soon!
Resources to help athletes train at home.
In-Person Athletics Training Resources
- View the recording of the January 14 General Coach’s Meeting
- View the recording of the Athletics In-Person Activity Meeting
- SONC Guidelines for In Person Gatherings (recorded)
- Review the Resources for Future SONC Events & Activities found on the Healthy & Active at Home web page
- In-person Training Sample Layouts
Updates and Recertification
Sport certifications must be updated every three years. Take this quick test to recertify in athletics.
Coaching Guides
- Special Olympics Quick Start Guide – printable version
- Special Olympics Quick Start Guide – digital version
- Mini-Javelin Instructions
- Special Olympics Coaching Guide – digital version
- Special Olympics Coaching Guide – printable version
Additional Coach Resources
Some trainings may have an associated cost. Please check with your local program coordinator before purchasing if you will wish to be reimbursed for this expense.
SONC offers competition in 29 different athletics events, ranging in distances from 10 meters to 1,500 meters, as well as multiple field events. This range of events allows athletes of all ability levels the opportunity to train and compete successfully to the best of their abilities.
Developmental Events
click link to see diagram of event layout
10m/25m Assisted Walk
Tennis Ball Throw (same as the softball throw)
10m/25m Wheelchair Races
30m Wheelchair Slalom
25m Wheelchair Obstacle
30m/50m Motorized Wheelchair Slalom
Lead-Up Events
click link to see diagram of event layout
25m/50m Dash
25m/50m Race Walk
100m/200m Wheelchair Races
Wheelchair Shot Put
Standing Long Jump
Softball Throw
Traditional Events
click link to see diagram of event layout
100m/200m/400m Dash
100m/400m Race Walk
800m/1500m Run
Running Long Jump
Shot Put
Mini-Javelin (similar set up for softball and tennis ball throw)
Pentathlon
4 x 100 Relay
Watch this video about athletics updates for the 2020-2021 program year.
SONC Athletics Rules Modifications – This document is updated by the beginning of each program year and indicates where SONC has modified existing Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI) or National Governing Body (NGB) rules.
SOI Official Sport Rules for Athletics – This is a link to the rules document produced by Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI). SOI updates these rules every two years.
USA Track & Field – This is a link to the NGB rules in effect for the SONC season.
Throw Zone Turbo Jav Information – The makers of the Turbojav have a kit available for purchase that includes six Turbojavs, 1 training DVD, and a carrying bag for $180 (plus shipping). A great deal for programs just starting to introduce this event to athletes! Please contact Leigh Petranoff with Throwing Zone Athletics.
- State you are with Special Olympics North Carolina and your County
- Number of kits you would like to order
- Number of 300 gram (females & males age 15 and under)/400 gram (males age 16 and older)
Local programs are responsible for the cost of these kits.
Always communicate with your local coordinator if you are interested in submitting registration for an event.
Summer Games/Invitational Registration Forms
Athletics Individual Registration Form
Athletics Relay Registration Form
Athletics Improved Performance Form (will be posted after registration is due for Summer Games) – must submit by May 27, 2021. Only submit this form if the time for an event is faster than the one submitted for registration. The decision to change a division for an athlete will be decided by the competition management team, and/or SONC staff.
Local program coordinators should submit entries along with the remainder of the Summer Games registration. Click here for a full list of Summer Games registration forms. These forms will be available closer to the event date.
Basketball
Coming soon!
Resources to help athletes train at home.
In-Person Basketball Training Resources
- View the recording of the January 14 General Coach’s Meeting
- View the recording of the Basketball In-Person Activity Meeting
- SONC Guidelines for In Person Gatherings (recorded)
- Review the Resources for Future SONC Events & Activities found on the Healthy & Active at Home web page
- In-person Training Sample Layouts
Updates and Recertification
Sport certifications must be updated every three years. Take this quick test to recertify in basketball team and this quick test to recertify in basketball individual skills.
Coaching Guides
- Special Olympics Quick Start Guide – printable version
- Special Olympics Quick Start Guide – digital version
- Special Olympics Coaching Guide
- Nutritional Information
Additional Coach Resources
Some trainings may have an associated cost. Please check with your local program coordinator before purchasing if you will wish to be reimbursed for this expense.
- FIBA Basketball Trainings – Excellent free resource with diagrams and explanations for drills and videos from professional coaches around the world.
SONC offers three types of basketball competition: individual skills, 3-on-3 team, and 5-on-5 team.
Individual skills competition allows Special Olympics athletes to develop sports skills in a competitive format designed as a stepping stone for athletes to team competition. The indvidual skills offered for basketball are passing, dribbling, and shooting.
3-on-3 basketball team competition is played on a half-court with three players a side (six player on a roster maximum). Games are played with two ten-minute halves with a running clock. The winner is determined by who has the most points at the end of full time, or the first team to 20 points.
5-on-5 basketball team competition is played on a regulation basketball court and follows North Carolina High School Athletic Association (NCHSAA) rules, with some modifications. Games are played by four eight-minute quarters with a running clock. The winner is determined by the team with the most points at the end of full time.
Watch this video about basketball updates for the 2020-2021 program year.
SONC Basketball Rule Modifications – This document is updated by the beginning of each program year and indicates where SONC has modified existing Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI) or National Governing Body (NGB) rules.
SOI Official Sport Rules for Basketball – This is a link to the rules document produced by Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI). SOI updates these rules every two years.
Always communicate with your local coordinator if you are interested in submitting registration for an event.
Fall Tournament/Invitational Registration Forms
Local program coordinators should submit entries along with the remainder of the Fall Tournament registration. Click here for a full list of Fall Tournament registration forms. These forms will be available closer to the event date.
Assessment Forms
For coaches’ use only – do not submit with event registration.
Bocce
Check out these excellent resources for training at home!
- Watch our recorded live training sessions:
Bocce Training Supplement
In-Person Bocce Training Resources
- Fall 2020 Coaches Meeting Recording (August 18, 2020)
- SONC Guidelines for In Person Gatherings (recorded)
- Sample Layout (pdf version)
- Preparing a Venue and other resources
Updates and Recertification
Sport certifications must be updated every three years. Take this quick test to recertify in bocce.
Coaching Guides
- Special Olympics Quick Start Guide – printable version
- Special Olympics Quick Start Guide – digital version
- Special Olympics Coaching Guide
Additional Coach Resources
Some trainings may have an associated cost. Please check with your local program coordinator before purchasing if you will wish to be reimbursed for this expense.
SONC offers singles, doubles, Unified Sports doubles, team, and Unified Sports team competition. Depending on the event, players take a turn rolling a bocce ball toward the smallest ball (pallina), which has already been thrown onto the field. The players are given points for the balls thrown closest to the pallina.
Watch this video about bocce updates for the 2020-2021 program year.
SONC Bocce Rules Modifications – This document is updated by the beginning of each program year and indicates where SONC has modified existing Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI) or National Governing Body (NGB) rules.
SOI Official Sport Rules for Bocce – This is a link to the rules document produced by Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI). SOI updates these rules every two years.
Always communicate with your local coordinator if you are interested in submitting registration for an event.
Fall Tournament/Invitational Registration Forms
Local program coordinators should submit entries along with the remainder of the Fall Tournament registration. Click here for a full list of Fall Tournament registration forms. These forms will be available closer to the event date.
Bowling
Coming soon!
Resources to help athletes train at home.
In-Person Bowling Training Resources
- View the recording of the January 14 General Coach’s Meeting
- View the recording of the Bowling In-Person Activity Meeting
- SONC Guidelines for In Person Gatherings (recorded)
- Review the Resources for Future SONC Events & Activities found on the Healthy & Active at Home web page
- In-person Training Sample Layouts
Updates and Recertifications
Sport certifications must be updated every three years. Take this quick test to recertify in bowling.
Coaching Guides
- Special Olympics Quick Start Guide – printable version
- Special Olympics Quick Start Guide – digital version
- Special Olympics Coaching Guide
Additional Coach Resources
Some trainings may have an associated cost. Please check with your local program coordinator before purchasing if you will wish to be reimbursed for this expense.
- Traditional Singles
- Traditional Singles ramp (unassisted and assisted)
- Traditional Doubles
- Unified Doubles
- Traditional Team
- Unified Team
- In doubles and five-person team competition (traditional and Unified Sports), SONC uses the Baker System format, which places emphasis on the team effort rather than individual accomplishments of team members. Doubles or team members take turns bowling frames within one game, as opposed to team members bowling individual games and combining the scores for one team score.
Watch this video about bowling updates for the 2020-2021 program year.
SONC Bowling Rule Modifications – This document is updated by the beginning of each program year and indicates where SONC has modified existing Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI) or National Governing Body (NGB) rules.
SOI Official Sport Rules for Bowling – This is a link to the rules document produced by Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI). SOI updates these rules every two years.
The United States Bowling Congress (USBC)- This is a link to the NGB rules in effect for the SONC season.
Always communicate with your local coordinator if you are interested in submitting registration for an event.
Summer Games/Invitational Registration Forms
- Bowling Singles Registration Form
- Bowling Doubles Registration Form
- Bowling Team Registration Form
Local program coordinators should submit entries along with the remainder of the Summer Games registration. Click here for a full list of Summer Games registration forms. These forms will be available closer to the event date.
Cheerleading
Coming soon!
Resources to help athletes train at home.
In-Person Cheerleading Training Resources
- View the recording of the January 14 General Coach’s Meeting
- View the recording of the Cheerleading In-Person Activity Meeting
- SONC Guidelines for In Person Gatherings (recorded)
- Review the Resources for Future SONC Events & Activities found on the Healthy & Active at Home web page
- In-person Training Sample Layouts
Updates and Certifications
Sport certifications must be updated every three years. Take this quick test to recertify in cheerleading.
Coaching Guides
- SONC Cheerleading Manual
Additional Coach Resources
Some trainings may have an associated cost. Please check with your local program coordinator before purchasing if you will wish to be reimbursed for this expense.
Individual Performance Competition is available for athletes just starting out in cheerleading, or for programs without adequate numbers to form a team. Athletes have two and on-half minutes to complete a routine, and music is allowed.
Team Competition is offered in the traditional and Unified Sports models in four different categories. Criteria and restrictions for each category are found within the SONC Cheerleading Rules. All categories allow (but do not require) music, and teams have two and one-half minutes to complete their routine.
Watch this video about alpine skiing updates for the 2020-2021 program year.
SONC Cheerleading Rubric – This is a link to the rules document produced by Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI). SOI updates these rules every two years.
United States All-Star Federation (USASF) – This is a link to the NGB rules in effect for the SONC season.
Always communicate with your local coordinator if you are interested in submitting registration for an event.
Cheerleading Tournament/Invitational Registration Forms
Local program coordinators should submit entries along with the remainder of the Cheerleading Tournament registration. Click here for a full list of Cheerleading Tournament registration forms. These forms will be available closer to the event date.
Cycling
Check out these excellent resources for training at home!
- Watch our recorded live training sessions:
Cycling Training Supplement
In-Person Cycling Training Resources
- Fall 2020 Coaches Meeting Recording (August 20, 2020)
- SONC Guidelines for In Person Gatherings (recorded)
- Sample Layout (pdf version)
- Preparing a Venue and other resources
Updates and Recertification
Sport certifications must be updated every three years. Take this quick test to recertify in cycling.
Coaching Guides
- Special Olympics Quick Start Guide – printable version
- Special Olympics Quick Start Guide – digital version
- Special Olympics Coaching Guide
Additional Coach Resources
Some trainings may have an associated cost. Please check with your local program coordinator before purchasing if you will wish to be reimbursed for this expense.
SONC offers seven different cycling events through a mix of time trial races and road races. Time trial races are conducted with riders starting one at a time at set intervals. Road races are conducted using a mass start where all riders start at the starting line at the same time.*
- 500m Time Trial
- 1k Time Trial
- 2k Time Trial
- 2k Road Race
- 5k Road Race
- 10k Road Race
- 15k Road Race
*SONC may alter the events offered at any point.
Watch this video about cycling updates for the 2020-2021 program year.
SONC Cycling Rule Modifications – This document is updated by the beginning of each program year and indicates where SONC has modified existing Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI) or National Governing Body (NGB) rules.
SOI Official Sport Rules for Cycling – This is a link to the rules document produced by Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI). SOI updates these rules every two years.
USA Cycling – This is a link to the NGB rules in effect for the SONC season.
Always communicate with your local coordinator if you are interested in submitting registration for an event.
State-Level Event/Invitational Sport Registration Forms
Equestrian
Check out these excellent resources for training at home!
- Trails Course Walk-Through
- Create your own backyard trails course using household objects by following the patterns here.
- A Level Trails walk-through with Coach Perry
- B Level Trails walk-through with Coach Perry
- C Level Trails walk-through with Coach Perry
- Watch our recorded live training sessions:
Equestrian Training Supplement
In-Person Equestrian Training Resources
- Fall 2020 Coaches Meeting Recording (August 25, 2020)
- SONC Guidelines for In Person Gatherings (recorded)
- Sample Layout (pdf version) (editable version with Powerpoint)
- Preparing a Venue and other resources
Updates and Recertification
Sport certifications must be updated every three years. Please note that recertification for equestrian coaches (including leaders/sidewalkers) must be done in person at an equestrian training school. Please visit the events calendar to find a training.
Coaching Guides
- Special Olympics Quick Start Guide – digital version
- Special Olympics Coaching Guide
Additional Coach Resources
Some trainings may have an associated cost. Please check with your local program coordinator before purchasing if you will wish to be reimbursed for this expense.
- Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA)– Instructor of Riders with Disabilities (CHA-IRD); Level 2 or above
- CHA Educational Video Shorts – brief instructional videos free of charge
- Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH)
- American Hippotherapy Association (AHA)
- American Riding Instructors Association (ARIA) Level 2 or above
- Pony Club Coaching Certificate
SONC offers seven different events (also called “classes”). These classes showcase the ability of the athlete to control the horse and follow verbal instructions as well as learned patterns.
Events Offered
- Dressage (English & Western; all levels*)
- Equitation (English & Western; all levels)
- Western Riding (Level A only)
- Working Trails (English & Western; all levels)
- Showmanship at Halter/Bridle Classes (non-mounted performance class)
- Pole Bending (English & Western; all levels*)
- Barrel Racing (English & Western; all levels*)
Dressage (English and Western)
- Dressage Level A – Call Sheet
- Dressage Level A – Pattern
- Dressage Level B – Call Sheet
- Dressage Level B – Pattern
- Dressage Level C – Call Sheet
- Dressage Level C – Pattern
Showmanship (Halter and Bridle)
Western Riding (Western only)
Trails (English and Western)
Equitation Tests
These are the basic commands to be used by the announcer and/or judge for equitation classes. For additional potential tests, please refer to SOI Section 13.3:
- Western: walk (C class), jog (B class) and lope (A class)
- English: walk (C class), trot (B class) and canter (A class)
- Both: back, circle, halt, reverse and line up on the ring master/ring mistress
The Official Special Olympics Sports Rules for Equestrian dated June 2020* will be in effect for the 2020-2021 SONC program year. Review the SOI Equestrian Rule Changes (2020) for a synopsis of these rule changes. The SONC rules modifications and interpretations listed below is intended to be used in conjunction with the 2020 United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) Rulebook, and the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA). Therefore, those rules are not repeated here but they will be enforced unless in direct conflict to SONC modifications.
*SONC has removed reference of dressage and western riding patterns in this version of the SOI Rules. Other than these removals, the rules are identical to those on the SOI resources web page.
SONC Equestrian Rule Modifications and Interpretations for 2020-2021
- For the safety of all athletes, coaches, and volunteers, anyone riding a horse must take the proper safety precautions while participating in Special Olympics activities. Activities are defined as practice, warm-up and/or schooling of horses for competition/training purposes. This includes wearing a helmet, appropriate heeled shoes/boots, long pants, and appropriate saddle/tack. Additionally, close-toed shoes are required of all personnel entering any arenas being used for competition, practice, or warm-up.
- Tack: for guidelines about required tack (including stirrups), please refer to the SOI rules.
- Saddles and all other tack are the responsibility of the local program and their riding center partners. (This is a clarification of SOI Section 5.1.)
- All horses must wear a halter and a bit, regardless of class. (SONC modification of Section 5)
- The following bits will not be allowed for use: Kimberwicks, Pelhams, Hackamores, or Elevators. (SONC addition to SOI Section 17.1.1.2)
- As per AQHA rules, an optional curb-strap attached below the reins on a snaffle bit is acceptable for Western classes.
- For English classes, the use of curb straps or chains on any kind of bit is also prohibited.
- Please refer to SOI Section 3.14 and 3.15 regarding horse and rider requirements. However, SONC allows an athlete to show a different horse if entered in a Showmanship class.
SONC Equestrian Tournament Rules
Listed in this section are competition notices specific to the SONC Equestrian Tournament, the state-level event for this sport. This section is intended to be used in conjunction with the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF), American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA), SOI Official Sport Rules for Equestrian and SONC Equestrian Rules Modifications and Interpretations, and will be considered rules to be enforced at this event.
- There will be three gate calls for riders and their appropriate classes. If the athlete has not reported to the warm-up arena by the final gate call, they will be scratched from the event and receive no award for that event.
- If an athlete is only registered for/competing in Showmanship, he/she is not required to take part in Friday Divisioning classes. All other athletes are required to ride in divisioning classes on Friday afternoon to be eligible to compete during the weekend. If the athlete does not participate in divisioning, they will not compete during the weekend.
- Athletes are allowed to compete in a maximum of three events. If entering in events other than just showmanship, one of those events must be a mounted performance class (dressage, western riding, trails, equitation).
- SONC allows coaches to be leaders and side walkers. (SONC modification of SOI Section 6.3.3 in that coaches are allowed to act as horse handlers (i.e. leaders), side walkers or spotters for their own athletes while in the competition ring. All other personnel (e.g. head coach) must remain in the “Coaches Box” during judging).
- All coaches, youth coaches, leaders, sidewalkers must be certified in equestrian in order to enter any restricted areas during state-level competition. Wrist bands will continue to be used to designate those who have received SONC equestrian training and are allowed in the competition arena.
- For the purposes of consistency, Western and English Working trails and dressage will use the same pattern by level.
SONC Equestrian Tournament Order of Events and Horse Practices
- Western classes will start, followed by English
- Order of Events (tentative)
- Friday – Divisioning (start with A then work towards C-S)
- Saturday – Showmanship, Working Trails, Gymkhana (Pole Bending & Barrel Racing)
- Sunday – Dressage, Western Riding, then Equitation
- Horses will not be provided by competition management. Local programs and their riding center partners must bring all appropriate tack, stable equipment, muck bucket and rake, hay, and feed. SONC will provide shavings for horses.
- Coggins tests will be checked when you arrive at the horse complex for state-level competition and a copy must be posted on the stall door. These should be dated after September 30, 2020 (completed within the last year).
- For showmanship and trails C-class competition, two rings will be run simultaneously and judged separately. Trails classes B & A will compete in one ring.
Always communicate with your local coordinator if you are interested in submitting registration for an event.
Equestrian Tournament/Invitational Registration Forms
Local program coordinators should submit entries along with the remainder of the Equestrian Tournament registration. Click here for a full list of Equestrian Tournament registration forms. These forms will be available closer to the event date.
Figure Skating
Updates and Recertification
Sport certifications must be updated every three years. Take this quick test to recertify in figure skating.
Coaching Guides
- Special Olympics Figure Skating Quick Start Guide – digital version
- Special Olympics Figure Skating Coaching Guide – digital version
- Special Olympics Figure Skating Coaching Guide – downloadable version
Additional Coach Resources
Some trainings may have an associated cost. Please check with your local program coordinator before purchasing if you will wish to be reimbursed for this expense.
- Individual Skills
- Singles Competition
- Pairs Skating
- Ice Dancing
- Unified Sports Pairs Skating
- Unified Sports Ice Dancing
- Unified Synchro Team
Watch this video about figure skating updates for the 2020-2021 program year.
SONC Ice Skating Rule Modifications – This document is updated by the beginning of each program year and indicates where SONC has modified existing Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI) or National Governing Body (NGB) rules.
SOI Official Sport Rules for Figure Skating – This is a link to the rules document produced by Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI). SOI updates these rules every two years.
US Figure Skating Association – This is a link to the NGB rules in effect for the SONC season.
Resources
- For instructional videos on Badges 1 – 12, Solo, and Pairs, please visit the SOI Figure Skating web page. These videos are located near the bottom of this page so remember to scroll!
Always communicate with your local coordinator if you are interested in submitting registration for an event.
SONC SE Winter Games Figure Skating Registration Forms
Local program coordinators should submit entries along with the remainder of the Southeast Winter Games registration.
- Figure Skating ISC Registration Form
- Figure Skating Registration Form
- Figure Skating Synchronized Team Registration Form
- Figure Skating Non-Athlete Registration Form
- Figure Skating Overall Schedule
- Figure Skating Endorsement Form
- Figure Skating Delegation Information Summary & Payment Form
Flag Football
Coming soon!
Resources to help athletes train at home.
Updates and Recertification
Coaching Guides
- SONC Flag Football Frequently Asked Questions
- Flag Football Academy– source for flag football play and drill examples
- Flag Football Training Tips
Additional Coach Resources
Some trainings may have an associated cost. Please check with your local program coordinator before purchasing if you will wish to be reimbursed for this expense.
SONC offers three types of flag football competition: individual skills, 5-on-5 traditional team and 5-on-5 Unified Sports team.
Individual skills competition allows Special Olympics athletes to develop sports skills in a competitive format designed to serve as a stepping stone to team competition. The indvidual skills offered for flag football are catching, throwing for accuracy, throwing for distance, and flag pulling.
5-on-5 traditional team competition is played on a modified flag football field with a youth football.
5-on-5 Unified Sports teams pair Special Olympics athletes with persons without intellectual disabilities of similar age and ability on a team.
Watch this video about flag football updates for the 2020-2021 program year.
SOI Flag Football Rules – This is a link to the rules document produced by Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI). SOI updates these rules every two years.
NIRSA Flag Football Rules- This is a link to the NGB rules in effect for the SONC season.
Always communicate with your local coordinator if you are interested in submitting registration for an event.
Invitational Registration Forms
- Flag Football Individual Skills Registration Form
- Flag Football Team Registration Form
- Team Rating Summary
Assessment Forms
For coaches’ use only – do not submit with event registration.
Golf
Check out these excellent resources for training at home!
- Watch our recorded live training sessions:
Golf Training Supplement
In-Person Golf Training Resources
- Fall 2020 Coaches Meeting Recording (August 18, 2020)
- SONC Guidelines for In Person Gatherings (recorded)
- Sample Layout (pdf version)
- Preparing a Venue and other resources
Updates and Recertification
Sport certifications must be updated every three years. Take this quick test to recertify in golf and this quick test to recertify in golf individual skills.
Coaching Guides
- Special Olympics Quick Start Guide – printable version
- Special Olympics Quick Start Guide – digital version
- Special Olympics Coaching Guide
Additional Coach Resources
Some trainings may have an associated cost. Please check with your local program coordinator before purchasing if you will wish to be reimbursed for this expense.
Level 1: Individual Skills Competition
This competition allows Special Olympics athletes to develop sports skills in a competitive format designed to serve as a stepping stone towards course play. The individual skills offered for golf are short and long putt, chip shot, pitch shot, iron shot and wood shot.
Level 2: Alternate Shot Team Play (9 hole)
This competition allows Special Olympics athletes to compete in course play with a Unified partner that acts as a coach to the athlete. The partner teaches strategy along with golf etiquette while playing alternate shot to prepare the athlete for individual course play.
Level 3: Alternate Shot Unified Sports Team Play (18 hole)
This competition allows Special Olympics athletes with a strong concept of golf rules and etiquette to play with a Unified Partner of similar ability on an alternate shot team for 18 holes.
Level 4: Individual Stroke Play Competition (9 hole)
This competition allows those athletes who have improved golf skills from level 2 to compete as an individual for 9-holes. Athletes are allowed caddies to help advise on strategy. Athletes must have an average score of 70 or under in order to be eligible for this level of play.
Level 5: Individual Stroke Play Competition (18 hole)
This is the highest individual level of golf offered by Special Olympics, and is for athletes with a good understanding of the game and golf knowledge. Athletes must have an average score under 120 in order to be eligible for this level of play. Athletes must have an average score of 120 or under in order to be eligible for this level of play.
Watch this video about golf updates for the 2020-2021 program year.
SONC Golf Rule Modifications – This document is updated by the beginning of each program year and indicates where SONC has modified existing Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI) or National Governing Body (NGB) rules.
SOI Official Sport Rules for Golf – This is a link to the rules document produced by Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI). SOI updates these rules every two years.
What is GHIN?
GHIN is the system used by the United States Golf Association and its affiliated member associations (CGA) to capture and maintain a golfer’s handicap index. It is simply the tool to collect, calculate and store the handicap index for a golfer.
SONC level 4 and 5 golfers are required to enter ALL golf scorecards into GHIN.
Find your GHIN number and updated handicap index here.
If you are a new level 4 or 5 athlete and need a GHIN number, email your name and local program name to sports@sonc.net.
Post a Score Here
- Check out these videos on how to post scores into GHIN
- Check out this how-to document
World Handicapping System (WHS)
As of January 1, 2020, the WHS has been adopted by the USGA to govern all players handicaps
SONC GHIN Handicap Manual – SONC has put together this comprehensive manual that provides in-depth information on all you need to know about the WHS and the few changes it has for level 4 and 5 athletes.
Have a question? Submit questions to sports@sonc.net
Always communicate with your local coordinator if you are interested in submitting registration for an event.
Fall Tournament/Invitational Registration Forms
Local program coordinators should submit entries along with the remainder of the Fall Tournament registration. Click here for a full list of Fall Tournament registration forms. These forms will be available closer to the event date.
Assessment Forms
For coaches’ use only – do not submit with registration.
Gymnastics
Coming soon!
Resources to help athletes train at home.
Coach’s Meeting Gymnastics Supplement – coming soon
In-Person Gymnastics Training Resources
- View the recording of the January 14 General Coach’s Meeting
- View the recording of the Gymnastics In-Person Activity Meeting
- SONC Guidelines for In Person Gatherings (recorded)
- Review the Resources for Future SONC Events & Activities found on the Healthy & Active at Home web page
- In-person Training Sample Layouts
Updates and Recertification
Sport certifications must be updated every three years. Take this quick test to recertify in gymnastics.
Women’s Artistic Coaching Guides
- Women’s Level A
- Women’s Level B
- Women’s Level C
- Women’s Level 1
- Women’s Level 2
- Women’s Level 3
- Women’s Level 4
Men’s Artistic Coaching Guides
SONC does not currently offer Rhythmic Gymnastics at Summer Games. If your program is interested in training in Rhythmic Gymnastics, please use these resources offered by SOI.
Additional Coach Resources
Some trainings may have an associated cost. Please check with your local program coordinator before purchasing if you will wish to be reimbursed for this expense.
- CoachTube Gymnastics Trainings
- Special Olympics Artistic Gymnastics Coaching Guide
- Check out these Coaching Tips from SOI on coaching women’s gymnastics athlete skills
- Artistic Levels 1 – 4
- Men’s Artistic Events (floor exercise, pommel horse, rings, vault, parallel bars, horizontal bar)
- Women’s Artistic Events (vault, uneven bars, balance beam, floor exercise)
- Artistic Levels A, B and C are competitions geared towards athletes who are just starting gymnastics, or are more successful at the fundamentals of gymnastics skills.
- Men’s Artistic Events (Levels A – C; four traditional men’s artistic events depending on the level)
- Women’s Artistic Events (Levels A – C; traditional women’s artistic events)
SONC does not currently offer Rhythmic Gymnastics at Summer Games. If your program is interested in training in Rhythmic Gymnastics, please use these resources offered by SOI.
Watch this video about gymnastics updates for the 2020-2021 program year.
SONC Gymnastics Rules Modifications – This document is updated by the beginning of each program year and indicates where SONC has modified existing Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI) or National Governing Body (NGB) rules.
SOI Official Sport Rules for Men’s Artistic Gymnastics – This is a link to the rules document produced by Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI). SOI updates these rules every two years.
SOI Official Sport Rules for Women’s Artistic Gymnastics – This is a link to the rules document produced by Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI). SOI updates these rules every two years.
Resources
SOI Official Judge Scoresheets (These are for coach reference. Please note that SONC may adjust the design of these scoresheets for Summer Games and/or invitationals)
- Men’s Artistic Gymnastics Floor Exercise
- Men’s Artistic Gymnastics Pommel Horse
- Men’s Artistic Gymnastics Rings
- Men’s Artistic Gymnastics Vault
- Men’s Artistic Gymnastics Parallel Bars
- Men’s Artistic Gymnastics Horizontal Bar
- Women’s Artistic Gymnastics Vault
- Women’s Artistic Gymnastics Uneven Bars
- Women’s Artistic Gymnastics Balance Beam
- Women’s Artistic Gymnastics Floor Exercise
Always communicate with your local coordinator if you are interested in submitting registration for an event.
Summer Games/Invitational Registration Forms
- Gymnastics Registration Form
Local program coordinators should submit entries along with the remainder of the Summer Games registration. Click here for a full list of Summer Games registration forms. These forms will be available closer to the event date.
Motor Activities Training Program
The Special Olympics Motor Activity Training Program is designed for athletes who are unable to participate in official Special Olympics sport competitions because of their skill and/or functional abilities.
MATP is designed to prepare athletes — including those with severe or profound intellectual disability and significant physical disabilities — for sport-specific activities appropriate for their ability levels.
Events offered in MATP vary by local program due to their participatory nature. Since MATP is focused on gross motor skills, programs have the flexibility to design activities as fits the needs of the athletes and the resources of the program. Popular modifications on traditional sports include ramp bocce, tennis played with beach balls with racquets and/or hands, and soccer played with beach balls and modified goal areas.
It is important to note that MATP events are not competition, and participation is celebrated, not finish. Athletes are awarded challenger medals for to recognize their efforts.
MATP can be incorporated through schools, group homes, residential facilities, and other community-based setting as needed. Local programs can utilize physical therapists, occupational therapists, therapeutic recreation providers and/or adaptive physical education instructors to identify and develop their MATP program.
Powerlifting
Coming soon!
Resources to help athletes train at home.
In-Person Powerlifting Training Resources
- View the recording of the January 14 General Coach’s Meeting
- View the recording of the Powerlifting In-Person Activity Meeting
- SONC Guidelines for In Person Gatherings (recorded)
- Review the Resources for Future SONC Events & Activities found on the Healthy & Active at Home web page
- In-person Training Sample Layouts
Updates and Recertification
Sport certifications must be updated every three years. Take this quick test to recertify in powerlifting.
Coaching Guides
- Special Olympics Coaching Guide – printable version
- Special Olympics Coaching Guide – digital version
- Kilo Conversion Table
Additional Coach Resources
Some trainings may have an associated cost. Please check with your local program coordinator before purchasing if you will wish to be reimbursed for this expense.
Powerlifting includes three basic lifts: the squat, the bench press, and the dead lift.
Athletes are first classified by weight and then divided by ability. Men and women can participate in all powerlifting events.
Single event competitions are the bench press, squat and dead lift.
Athletes who train and compete in more than one event have the option of competing in a combination event. This combines lift totals from the bench press and dead lift for a combination total score or totals from the three lifts for a triple combination total score.
Watch this video about powerlifting updates for the 2020-2021 program year.
SONC Powerlifting Rule Modifications – This document is updated by the beginning of each program year and indicates where SONC has modified existing Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI) or National Governing Body (NGB) rules.
SOI Official Sport Rules for Powerlifting – This is a link to the rules document produced by Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI). SOI updates these rules every two years.
United States Powerlifting Federation – This is a link to the NGB rules in effect for the SONC season.
Always communicate with your local coordinator if you are interested in submitting registration for an event.
Summer Games/Invitational Registration Forms
- Powerlifting Individual Registration Form
Local program coordinators should submit entries along with the remainder of the Summer Games registration. Click here for a full list of Summer Games registration forms. These forms will be available closer to the event date.
Southeast Powerlifting Registration Forms
This is an annual event hosted by Special Olympics Georgia during the month of January. More information to come at a later date.
- Registration Letter for Southeast
- Athlete Bios, Fees Form
- NA Endorsement Form
- Powerlifting Event Form
- T-Shirt Size Form
- State Office Verification Form
- Delegation Roster Form
- Schedule of Events
- Fee Sheet for Southeast
- Housing Information Sheet
Roller Skating
Check out these excellent resources for training at home!
- Watch our recorded live training sessions:
Roller Skating Training Supplement
In-Person Roller Skating Training Resources
- Fall 2020 Coach’s Meeting Recording (August 20, 2020)
- SONC Guidelines for In Person Gatherings (recorded)
- Sample Layout (pdf version)
- Preparing a Venue and other resources
Updates and Recertification
Sport certifications must be updated every three years. Take this quick test to recertify in roller skating.
Coaching Guides
- Special Olympics Coaching Guide – digital version
Additional Coach Resources
Some trainings may have an associated cost. Please check with your local program coordinator before purchasing if you will wish to be reimbursed for this expense.
SONC offers roller skating speed events. There is something for all ability levels, from the 30 meter slalom to 1,000 meter race. SONC also offers two team relays in two-person and four-person teams.
Watch this video about roller skating updates for the 2020-2021 program year.
Roller Skating Rule Modifications – This document is updated by the beginning of each program year and indicates where SONC has modified existing Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI) or National Governing Body (NGB) rules.
SOI Official Sport Rules for Roller Skating – This is a link to the rules document produced by Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI). SOI updates these rules every two years.
USA Roller Skating – This is a link to the NGB rules in effect for the SONC season.
Always communicate with your local coordinator if you are interested in submitting registration for an event.
Fall Tournament/Invitational Registration Forms
Local program coordinators should submit entries along with the remainder of the Fall Tournament registration. Click here for a full list of Fall Tournament registration forms. These forms will be available closer to the event date.
Sailing
Updates and Recertification
Coaching Guides
- Special Olympics Coaching Guide – printable version
Additional Coach Resources
Some trainings may have an associated cost. Please check with your local program coordinator before purchasing if you will wish to be reimbursed for this expense.
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Watch this video about sailing updates for the 2020-2021 program year.
SOI Official Sport Rules for Sailing – This is a link to the rules document produced by Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI). SOI updates these rules every two years.
World of Sailing Racing Rules – This is a link to the rules document produced by World Sailing.
Short Track Speed Skating
Updates and Recertification
Sport certifications must be updated every three years. Take this quick test to recertify in short track speed skating.
Coaching Guides
Additional Coach Resources
Some trainings may have an associated cost. Please check with your local program coordinator before purchasing if you will wish to be reimbursed for this expense.
- 25m Straightaway
- 55m Half Lap Race
- 111m Race
- 222m Race
- 333m Race
- 500m Race
- 700m Race
- 1000m Race
- 1500m Race
Watch this video about short track speed skating updates for the 2020-2021 program year.
SONC Ice Skating Rule Modifications – This document is updated by the beginning of each program year and indicates where SONC has modified existing Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI) or National Governing Body (NGB) rules.
SOI Official Sport Rules for Short Track Speed Skating – This is a link to the rules document produced by Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI). SOI updates these rules every two years.
US Speed Skating Association – This is a link to the NGB rules in effect for the SONC season.
SOVA Speed Skating Championships Registration Forms
This event is typically held in February each year and hosted by Special Olympics Virginia. If you are interested in sending athletes from your local program, please email sports@sonc.net.
Snowboarding
Coming soon!
Resources to help athletes train at home.
Updates and Recertification
Sport certifications must be updated every three years. Take this quick test to recertify in snowboarding.
Coaching Guides
Additional Coach Resources
Some trainings may have an associated cost. Please check with your local program coordinator before purchasing if you will wish to be reimbursed for this expense.
Snowboarding, while not an official SONC sport, is gaining popularity with athletes looking for a new challenge on the slopes. SONC offers the novice slalom at competition.
Watch this video about snowboarding updates for the 2020-2021 program year.
SONC Alpine Skiing-Snowboarding Rule Modifications – This document is updated by the beginning of each program year and indicates where SONC has modified existing Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI) or National Governing Body (NGB) rules.
SOI Official Sport Rules for Snowboarding – This is a link to the rules document produced by Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI). SOI updates these rules every two years.
United States Ski and Snowboard Association – This is a link to the NGB rules in effect for the SONC season.
Always communicate with your local coordinator if you are interested in submitting registration for an event.
Special Olympics North Carolina Winter Games – Alpine Skiing and Snowboarding Registration Forms
- SONC Winter Games Event Registration
- Special Olympics Clothing Rental Form
Local program coordinators should submit entries along with the remainder of the Winter Games registration. Click here for a full list of Winter Games registration forms. These forms will be available closer to the event date. These forms will be available closer to the event date. Additionally, find information about the event on the SONC Winter Games – Alpine Skiing and Snowboarding event page.
Special Olympics Southeast U.S. Winter Games – Alpine Skiing and Snowboarding Registration Forms
If you would like to register the exact same delegation as for SONC Winter Games – Alpine Skiing and Snowboarding, please let us know by contacting registration@sonc.net. No additional paperwork is needed, but we will need to know by Tuesday, December 31, 2019.
- Southeast U.S. Winter Games Event Registration
Soccer
Check out these excellent resources for training at home!
- Watch our recorded live training sessions:
Soccer Training Supplement
In-Person Soccer Training Resources
- Fall 2020 Coaches Meeting Recording (August 25, 2020)
- SONC Guidelines for In Person Gatherings (recorded)
- Sample Layout (pdf version)
- Preparing a Venue and other resources
Updates and Recertification
Sport certifications must be updated every three years. Take this quick test to recertify in soccer team, and this quick test to recertify in soccer individual skills.
Coaching Guides
- Special Olympics Quick Start Guide – printable version
- Special Olympics Quick Start Guide – digital version
- Special Olympics Coaching Guide
Additional Coach Resources
Some trainings may have an associated cost. Please check with your local program coordinator before purchasing if you will wish to be reimbursed for this expense.
SONC offers three types of soccer competition: individual skills, 5-a-side team and 7-a-side team.
Individual skills competition allows Special Olympics athletes to develop sports skills in a competitive format designed to serve as a stepping stone to team competition. The individual skills offered for soccer are dribbling, shooting, and run-kick.
5-a-side team competition allows athletes who have mastered individual skills to compete on a team in a traditional soccer match. This type of competition is the most popular type of play for soccer in SONC.
7-a-side competition is new to SONC in 2018. This type of competition is for teams that have a good understanding of the game and can play on a larger field with a larger goal.
Athletes participating in traditional team play on a modified soccer field with a size 5 soccer ball.
Watch this video about soccer updates for the 2020-2021 program year.
SONC Soccer Rule Modifications – This document is updated by the beginning of each program year and indicates where SONC has modified existing Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI) or National Governing Body (NGB) rules.
SOI Official Sport Rules for Soccer – This is a link to the rules document produced by Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI). SOI updates these rules every two years.
United States Soccer Federation – This is a link to the NGB rules in effect for the SONC season.
Always communicate with your local coordinator if you are interested in submitting registration for an event.
Fall Tournament/Invitational Registration Forms
Local program coordinators should submit entries along with the remainder of the Fall Tournament registration. Click here for a full list of Fall Tournament registration forms. These forms will be available closer to the event date.
Assessment Forms
For coaches’ use only – do not submit with event registration.
Softball
Register for the January 14 6pm Coach’s Meeting
Check out these excellent resources for training at home!
- Watch our recorded live training sessions:
Softball Training Supplement
In-Person Softball Training Resources
- Fall 2020 Coaches Meeting Recording (August 20, 2020)
- SONC Guidelines for In Person Gatherings (recorded)
- Sample Layout (pdf version)
- Preparing a Venue and other resources
Updates and Recertification
Sport certifications must be updated every three years. Take this quick test to recertify in softball team, and take this quick test to recertify in softball individual skills.
Coaching Guides
- Special Olympics Quick Start Guide – digital version
- Special Olympics Coaching Guide
Additional Coach Resources
Some trainings may have an associated cost. Please check with your local program coordinator before purchasing if you will wish to be reimbursed for this expense.
SONC offers two types of softball competition: individual skills and slow-pitch team.
Individual skills competition allows Special Olympics athletes to develop sports skills in a competitive format designed to serve as a stepping stone to team competition. The indvidual skills offered for softball are base running, throwing, fielding, and hitting.
Athletes participating in traditional slow-pitch team competition play on a softball field, with modified base paths and pitching mounds for lower divisions.
Watch this video about softball updates for the 2020-2021 program year.
SONC Softball Rule Modifications – This document is updated by the beginning of each program year and indicates where SONC has modified existing Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI) or National Governing Body (NGB) rules.
SOI Official Sport Rules for Softball – This is a link to the rules document produced by Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI). SOI updates these rules every two years.
T-Ball Rules of Competition – This is a link to the NGB rules in effect for the SONC season.
American Softball Association– This is a link to the NGB rules in effect for the SONC season.
Always communicate with your local coordinator if you are interested in submitting registration for an event.
Summer Games/Invitational Registration Forms
- Softball Individual Skills Competition Registration Form
- Softball Team Registration and Rating Form
Local program coordinators should submit entries along with the remainder of the Summer Games registration. Click here for a full list of Summer Games registration forms. These forms will be available closer to the event date.
Assessment Forms
For coaches’ use only – do not submit with event registration.
Swimming
Coming soon!
Resources to help athletes train at home.
In-Person Swimming Training Resources
- View the recording of the January 14 General Coach’s Meeting
- View the recording of the Swimming In-Person Activity Meeting
- Swimming Coaches Meeting Recording
- SONC Guidelines for In Person Gatherings (recorded)
- Review the Resources for Future SONC Events & Activities found on the Healthy & Active at Home web page
- In-person Training Sample Layouts
- Swimming Practice Planning FAQ (pdf version)
Updates and Recertification
Sport certifications must be updated every three years. Take this quick test to recertify in swimming.
Coaching Guides
Additional Coach Resources
Some trainings may have an associated cost. Please check with your local program coordinator before purchasing if you will wish to be reimbursed for this expense.
SONC offers competition in 33 different swimming events, ranging in distances from 15 meters to 1,500 meters, and featuring all strokes (backstroke, breaststroke, butterfly, and freestyle).
Individual events are offered for all strokes, and relay events are offered to athletes competing in levels 2 and 3. SONC offers walking and flotation events for athletes of lower ability.
SONC also offers relay events in the Unified Sports model, featuring athletes with and without intellectual disabilities (called Unified partners) to compete together.
Athletes may select up to three events from Level 1, Level 2, or Level 3, but must stay within their level. Athletes competing in all levels are eligible for one relay team event.
Level 1
| 15m Assisted Swim | 25y Kickboard | 25y Freestyle |
| 15m Walk | 25y Floatation Device | 25y Backstroke |
| 15 Unassisted Swim | 25y Assisted Swim |
Level 2
| 25/50y Backstroke | 25/50y Butterfly | 100y Individual Medley |
| 25/50y Breastroke | 25/50y Freestyle |
Level 3
| 50/100/200y Backstroke | 50/100y Butterfly | 100/200y Individual Medley |
| 50/100/200y Breastroke | 50/100/200/500/800/1000/1650y Freestyle | |
Relay Team Events (Traditional & Unified Sports)
| 4×25/4x50y Freestyle Relay |
| 4x50y Medley Relay |
Please note that all events listed below may not be offered at the 2021 SONC Summer Games or 2021 Southeast Regional Invitational. The events listed for those events will be posted on the respective webpages.
Watch this video about swimming updates for the 2020-2021 program year.
SONC Swimming Rule Modifications – This document is updated by the beginning of each program year and indicates where SONC has modified existing Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI) or National Governing Body (NGB) rules.
SOI Official Sport Rules for Swimming – This is a link to the rules document produced by Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI). SOI updates these rules every two years.
USA Swimming (National Governing Body) Rulebook – This is a link to the NGB rules in effect for the SONC season.
Always communicate with your local coordinator if you are interested in submitting registration for an event.
Summer Games/Invitational Registration Forms
- Swimming Individual Registration Form
- Swimming Relay Registration Form
Swimming Improved Performance Form – must submit by May 27, 2021. Only submit this form if the time for an event is faster than the one submitted for registration. The decision to change a division for an athlete will be decided by the competition management team, and/or SONC staff.
Local program coordinators should submit entries along with the remainder of the Summer Games registration. Click here for a full list of Summer Games registration forms. These forms will be available closer to the event date.
Tennis
Check out these excellent resources for training at home!
- Watch our recorded live training sessions:
Tennis Training Supplement
In-Person Tennis Training Resources
- Fall 2020 Coaches Meeting Recording (August 25, 2020)
- SONC Guidelines for In Person Gatherings (recorded)
- Sample Layout (pdf version)
- Preparing a Venue and other resources
Updates and Recertification
Sport certifications must be updated every three years. Take this quick test to recertify in tennis and this quick test to recertify in tennis individual skills.
Coaching Guides
- Special Olympics Quick Start Guide – printable version
- Special Olympics Quick Start Guide – digital version
- Special Olympics Coaching Guide
Additional Coach Resources
Some trainings may have an associated cost. Please check with your local program coordinator before purchasing if you will wish to be reimbursed for this expense.
SONC offers three different types of competition: individual skills, short court match play and full court match play.
Individual skills competition allows Special Olympics athletes to develop sport skills in a competitive format designed to serve as a stepping stone to match play. The individual skills offered for tennis are forehand and backhand volley, forehand and backhand groundstrokes, deuce and advantage court serves, and alternating groundstrokes with movement. Individual Skills uses the red felt tennis ball. Please use these updated diagrams to train your athletes as the scoring has been changed.
Short court match play is played on a modified court (within the service boxes) with a red felt tennis ball that has a lower compression. Athletes may choose to compete in two of three short court match play events which include singles, traditional doubles (two Special Olympics athletes), or Unified doubles (non-Special Olympics athlete partner of significant tennis ability).
Full court match play is played on a full court with either green dot or traditional yellow tennis balls. Athletes may choose to compete in singles and either traditional doubles or Unified Sports doubles. Athletes may choose to play level 4 (full court played with a low compression “Green Dot” tennis ball), or level 5 (using a traditional yellow tennis ball).
Watch this video about tennis updates for the 2020-2021 program year.
SONC Tennis Rules Modifications – This document is updated by the beginning of each program year and indicates where SONC has modified existing Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI) or National Governing Body (NGB) rules.
SOI Official Sport Rules for Tennis – This is a link to the rules document produced by Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI). SOI updates these rules every two years.
United States Tennis Association – This is a link to the NGB rules in effect for the SONC season.
Always communicate with your local coordinator if you are interested in submitting registration for an event.
Fall Tournament/Invitational Registration Forms
- Tennis Individual Skills Competition Registration Form
- Tennis Full Court (Levels 4 & 5) & Short Court (Level 2) Registration Form
Local program coordinators should submit entries along with the remainder of the Fall Tournament registration. Click here for a full list of Fall Tournament registration forms. These forms will be available closer to the event date.
Full Court athlete and Unified partner assessment materials
Assessment Form, Instructions, ITN Assessment Guide, Instructional video
Short Court athlete and Unified partner assessment materials
Assessment form, Instructions, Instructional video
Individual Skills
Individual Skills Worksheet – For coaches use only, do not submit with registration.
SONC uses the ITN assessment procedures as outlined in the official SOI Tennis rules for all competition. ITN assessments are valid for three years unless an athlete moves to a different level of competition. If you have an athlete who is need of an ITN assessment, please contact the SONC sports staff at sports@sonc.net for support in scheduling an assessment. SONC has developed a network of resources throughout the state that can assist in performing the required ITN assessments.
Level 2: Short Court Athlete and Unified Partner Assessment Materials
Levels 4/5: Full Court Athlete and Unified Partner Assessment Materials
Unified Sports
For all Unified Sports coaching resources, please visit the SOI Unified Sports web page.
Unified Sports® competitive model is offered in bocce, bowling, cheerleading, golf, tennis, and volleyball at state-level events.
Unified Sports® competitive model is also offered in many high schools in the state in track & field and bowling.
Unified Sports® recreation is offered in basketball, flag football, kickball and volleyball through our Unified Sports and Campus Recreation Leagues.
The Young Athletes Program is a recreation-based model for athletes and Unified partners age 2-7.
These are Special Olympics North Carolina registration forms and should be submitted to the local program coordinator in order to complete registration.
Volleyball
Coming soon!
Resources to help athletes train at home.
In-Person Volleyball Training Resources
- View the recording of the January 14 General Coach’s Meeting
- View the recording of the Volleyball In-Person Activity Meeting
- SONC Guidelines for In Person Gatherings (recorded)
- Review the Resources for Future SONC Events & Activities found on the Healthy & Active at Home web page
- In-person Training Sample Layouts
Updates and Recertification
Sport certifications must be updated every three years. Take this quick test to recertify in volleyball team and this quick test to recertify in volleyball individual skills.
Coaching Guides
- Special Olympics Quick Start Guide – printable version
- Special Olympics Quick Start Guide – digital version
- Special Olympics Unified Quick Start Guide
- Special Olympics Coaching Guide
Additional Coach Resources
Some trainings may have an associated cost. Please check with your local program coordinator before purchasing if you will wish to be reimbursed for this expense.
SONC offers four types of volleyball competition: individual skills, traditional, Unified and modified team.
Individual skills competition allows Special Olympics athletes to develop sports skills in a competitive format designed to serve as a stepping stone to team competition. The individual skills offered for volleyball are overhead passing, serving, and passing.
Traditional volleyball team competition is played on a regulation volleyball court with a traditional indoor leather volleyball.
Modified volleyball team competition is played on a regulation volleyball court but a lighter, larger volleyball. The service line is also moved closer to the net.
Unified volleyball team competition is played on a regulation volleyball court bringing together people with intellectual disabilities (athletes) and people without intellectual disabilities (partners) on the same teams.
Watch this video about volleyball updates for the 2020-2021 program year.
SONC Volleyball Rule Modifications – This document is updated by the beginning of each program year and indicates where SONC has modified existing Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI) or National Governing Body (NGB) rules.
SOI Official Sport Rules for Volleyball – This is a link to the rules document produced by Special Olympics, Inc. (SOI). SOI updates these rules every two years.
USA Volleyball – This is a link to the NGB rules in effect for the SONC season.
Always communicate with your local coordinator if you are interested in submitting registration for an event.
Summer Games/Invitational Registration Forms
- Volleyball Individual Skills Competition Registration Form
- Volleyball Team Registration and Rating Form
Local program coordinators should submit entries along with the remainder of the Summer Games registration. Click here for a full list of Summer Games registration forms. These forms will be available closer to the event date.
Assessment Forms
For coaches’ use only – do not submit with event registration.
