Coaches and Officials

Our coaches play a vital role in empowering athletes with intellectual disabilities and/or autism to develop skills, build confidence, and experience the joy of sport in an inclusive and supportive environment.

Whether you’re helping young athletes in grassroots programs or leading a national team at the World Games, being a Special Olympics Australia coach is an incredibly rewarding journey - one that makes a lasting impact on athletes, families, and communities.

Become a Coach

Becoming a coach with Special Olympics Australia has many rewards. Along the way, we’re here to help you every step of the way with training, resources and guidance you need to coach with confidence and skill.

Coaches at Special Olympics Australia grow alongside their athletes. Our coaching pathway supports development across all stages of sport – from grassroots to World Games competition.

• Coach Development Framework – coming soon

Contact Special Olympics Australia to learn how to become a registered coach and get started on your coaching journey.

Coaching Standards at International Competitions

When coaching at international competitions, all head coaches and assistant coaches must meet global standards set by Special Olympics International (SOI) and Special Olympics Asia Pacific (SOAP). These standards ensure that all coaches are qualified, prepared, and committed to providing the best possible support for athletes on the world stage.

Learn more about Coaching Standards for International Competitions.

SOI and SOAP Coaching Standards at International Competitions

Training & Education

Special Olympics Australia is committed to continuous learning and professional development for all coaches. There are a variety of education opportunities available:

Inclusive Sport Academy

SOA’s own learning platform offers online courses, webinars, and resources focused on inclusive coaching and athlete development. Explore Inclusive Sport Academy

Special Olympics eLearn

Access global courses, sport-specific training and leadership modules from Special Olympics International. Visit SOeLearn

Sport Integrity Australia eLearning

Courses on child safeguarding, integrity in sport, anti-doping and inclusive coaching practices. Access Sport Integrity Australia eLearning

Australian Sports Commission – Community Coaching Essential Skills

An online course that teaches fundamental coaching principles to help coaches create fun, safe and inclusive sports environments for participants. Visit Australia Sport Learning Centre

Special Olympics Coach Webinar Series – Presented by Gallagher

The Special Olympics Coach Webinar Series, presented by Gallagher is back for 2025! This years’ series will explore topics chosen by coaches from around the world and take a deep dive into two key areas of development

Missed the webinars? You can catch-up via Special Olympics International's YouTube channel.

• Webinar 1 - Coaching Standards at International Competitions
• Webinar 2 - How can I Become a Better Coach?

Coaching Resources

We offer a wide range of resources to help coaches deliver high-quality, inclusive sport experiences.

• Sport Rules & Coaching
• Divisoning
• Unified Sports
• Athlete Development Model (ADM)
• Coach Development Model (CDM)
• Coaching Standards at International Competitions
• Coaching Newsletter
• Australian Sports Commission Physical Literacy Framework

Join our Community

Special Olympics Australia coaches are part of a vibrant, supportive community dedicated to inclusion and excellence. Together, we’re transforming lives through sport.

Ready to make a difference? Contact us today