Role and Responsibilities

• Oversee the administration of the high school’s after school Unified Track and Field program.  A Unified Track and Field team is composed of a proportional number of students who are Special Olympics-eligible (defined as students with an intellectual disability, cognitive delay, or developmental disability including autism) and students without intellectual disabilities.

• Following the roster requirements and rules for participation on a Unified Track and Field team, recruit the appropriate number of students who are Special Olympics-eligible and students without intellectual disabilities.  Collect all required paperwork (physical exam, health history, and parental consents).

• Liaison regularly with Special Olympics Pennsylvania staff and the high school athletic director to ensure quality program standards are being met.

• Practices begin the first week of March and the season runs through the third week of May.  There are two after school practices a week and at least three competitions throughout the spring season.  All practices and meets always are held on weekdays immediately after school.

• Attend the free and required Unified Sports® Track and Field Coaches’ Training in your county.  Complete the required free online Special Olympics coaches’ courses. 

• Develop and implement practice plans in which track and field instruction and coaching is provided to all participants. 

• Impart the philosophy of a positive inclusive sports experience by following the principles of Unified Sports® and promoting social inclusion outcomes.

• Responsible for working with the high school’s athletic director to plan and provide proper support for any home Unified Track and Field meet.  There must be one certified PIAA official on site.  Follow the competition management protocols provided by Special Olympics PA.   

Compensation

• A total stipend of $1,500 will be paid. Ideally split between two coaches.