"Special Olympics encourages people with disabilities to overcome their odds. A Special Olympic athlete learns so much more than how to just swim well. They are gaining confidence, life lessons and improving their social skills all while developing a love for a lifetime sport."  

     Dian Christiansen, Special Olympics coach

Few people impact our athletes’ success more than their coaches. Coaches not only provide sports skills but they are role models who teach Special Olympics athletes about character, sportsmanship, courage, ability and personal growth. Special Olympics coaches often find that the personal rewards received are equal to or even outweigh the benefits they offer the athletes.

In addition to the interaction with our athletes, Special Olympics Nebraska coaches are members of the Nebraska Coaches Association and participate in annual training opportunities. In general, Special Olympics coaches:

• Assist athletes in learning sports skills and applying them

  in competitions

• Encourage confidence and self-esteem through sport

• Help to recruit athletes and assistant coaches

• Obtain necessary facilities and equipment for training 

For more information about becoming coach, contact rkellar@sone.org. Go to the volunteer page to learn about requirements and find the proper forms.