Level 1 Training & Volunteer Application - Special Olympics Minnesota

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Thank you for being part of the Special Olympics Minnesota family! The care, concern and talents of athletes, families and volunteers have made Special Olympics one of the most respected sports programs in the world.

Your participation in this training is just one more way that you demonstrate your dedication. This training is for:

Coaches
Team Assistants
Unified Partners
Volunteers with close contact with athletes
Volunteers who handle financial assets
Young Athlete Volunteers
Staff

Special Olympics Minnesota's (SOMN) Level 1 Training & Volunteer Application process is divided into four parts:

Volunteer application
General Orientation training
Protective Behavior training
Concussion training

This paperwork protects all Special Olympics Minnesota participants.

Volunteer Code of Conduct

Volunteers support each aspect of Special Olympics Minnesota's mission and are expected to uphold the following code of conduct while volunteering:

I will provide for the general welfare, health and safety of all Special Olympics athletes and volunteers.
I will follow all expectations of the volunteer role outlined in the Volunteer Job Description.
I will follow the established rules and guidelines of Special Olympics Minnesota and/or any agency involved with Special Olympics Minnesota.
I will not promote religious or political beliefs or preferences while volunteering.
I will report any emergencies to the appropriate authorities after first taking immediate action to ensure the health and safety of the participants.
I will support event rules and fair play expectations as well as decisions of event managers, referees, judges and SOMN staff.
I will praise athletes for their effort.
I will request accommodations that will ensure a successful volunteer experience, and I will support the accommodations of others.
I will be open to learning new and inclusive ways of fulfilling my volunteer role.
I will be receptive to and implement feedback from event managers.
I will respect the dignity, talents and skills of each athlete and fellow volunteer.

The relationship between Special Olympics Minnesota and volunteers is an "at will" arrangement and may be terminated at any time without cause by either the volunteer or Special Olympics Minnesota.

Contact info

Name*

First Last

Birthdate*

MM slash DD slash YYYY

Gender*

Hidden

Gender:

Which of the following best describes you? (optional; check all that apply)

Asian or Pacific Islander

Black or African American

Hispanic or Latine

Native American or Alaskan Native

White or Caucasian

Biracial

Multiracial

Address*

Address City State Zip code

Have you already connected with a Special Olympics Minnesota team, delegation or program?*

Yes

Which team/delegation/program are you connected with?*

What role(s) at Special Olympics Minnesota are you interested in volunteering for?*

Head coach (Responsible for organizing and leading practices. Time commitment: 2-3 hours per week)

Coach (Support head coach and athletes at practices. Time commitment: 2 hours per practice during a sports season (8-10 weeks))

Team assistant (Support coaches and athletes at practices. Time commitment: 2 hours per practice during a sports season (8-10 weeks))

Team administrator (Fill behind-the-scenes role to make sure team is successful; helping with registration, updating social media, fundraising, etc. Time commitment: Flexible & varies depending on team needs)

Young Athletes facilitator (Lead Young Athletes curriculum with other volunteers for 1 hour during a full session (5-7 weeks))

Unified partner

I'm interested in learning more before deciding.

Please select the sport(s) and/or program(s) that interest you.*

Alpine skiing

Basketball

Bocce

Bowling

Equestrian

Flag football

Golf

Gymnastics

Poly hockey

Powerlifting

Snowboarding

Snowshoeing

Softball

Swimming

Tennis

Track & field

Young Athletes

Other

How far are you willing to travel if there is no SOMN team/program in your city?*

Primary email*

Enter email Confirm email

Secondary email (optional)

Enter email Confirm email

Primary phone*

Primary phone type*

Secondary phone (optional)

Secondary phone type

Emergency contact information

Name*

First Last

Email*

Enter email Confirm email

Primary phone*

Primary phone type*

Background info

In accordance with Special Olympics International policy, all Class A Volunteers over the age of 18 must have a criminal background check that includes a check against a national vendor database and the sex offender registry for each State in which the sex offender registry is available. Class A Volunteers include volunteers who have regular, close physical contact with athletes such as coaches, chaperones, Unified Partners, area and local sports management team members, heads of delegation, ALPs mentors, drivers for athletes and volunteers who have administrative or fiscal authority. Special Olympics Minnesota contracts with Sterling Volunteers to perform our background checks. Once your application has been processed by our office, you will receive an email from Sterling Volunteers ([email protected]) with a link to confirm your background check. This email may go to your junk or spam folder. The link will be active for 5 days, so please watch your email and spam accounts. Special Olympics Minnesota will incur the cost of your background check.

Do you use illegal drugs?*

Yes

Have you ever been convicted of a criminal offense?*

Yes

Have you ever been charged with and/or convicted of neglect, abuse or assault?*

Yes

Has your driver's license been suspended or revoked in the past 7 years?*

Yes

Have you had 3 or more moving vehicle violations (speeding, failure to stop or yield) in the past seven (7) years?*

Yes

If you answered "yes" to any of the previous questions, please provide details below:*

Background check approval*

I understand I do not have to agree to this background check, but refusal to do so will exclude me from consideration for most types of volunteer work with Special Olympics Minnesota.

Transportation approval*

I understand that if I am transporting athletes in my personal vehicle and there is an accident, my personal vehicle insurance will carry primary responsibility.

Please check the background check and transportation approval boxes. The next button will appear once you have done so.

Communicable disease waiver

Please scroll through the text in the box below and ensure that you understand the waiver points before signing.*

WAIVER AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY, ASSUMPTION OF RISK AND INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT FOR COMMUNICABLE DISEASES (“Agreement”) for SPECIAL OLYMPICS

In consideration of being allowed to participate in any way in Special Olympics sports training, competition or fundraising activities, the undersigned acknowledges, appreciates, and agrees that:

1. Participation includes possible exposure to and illness from infectious and/or communicable diseases including but not limited to MRSA, influenza, and COVID-19. While particular rules and personal discipline may reduce this risk, the risk of serious illness and death does exist; and,

2. I KNOWINGLY AND FREELY ASSUME ALL SUCH RISKS, both known and unknown, EVEN IF ARISING FROM THE NEGLIGENCE OF THE RELEASEES or others, and assume full responsibility for my participation; and,

3. I willingly agree to comply with the stated and customary terms and conditions for participation as regards protection against infectious diseases. If, however, I observe and any unusual or significant hazard during my presence or participation, I will remove myself from participation and bring such to the attention of the nearest official immediately; and,

4. I, for myself and on behalf of my heirs, assigns, personal representatives and next of kin, HEREBY RELEASE AND HOLD HARMLESS Special Olympics, Inc, Special Olympics Minnesota their officers, officials, agents, and/or employees, other participants, sponsoring agencies, sponsors, advertisers, and if applicable, owners and lessors of premises used to conduct the event (“RELEASEES”), WITH RESPECT TO ANY AND ALL ILLNESS, DISABILITY, DEATH, or loss or damage to person or property, WHETHER ARISING FROM THE NEGLIGENCE OF RELEASEES OR OTHERWISE, to the fullest extent permitted by law.

I have read this release of liability and assumption of risk agreement, fully understand its terms, understand that I have given up substantial rights by signing it, and sign it freely and voluntarily without any inducement.

For participants of minority age (under age 18 at the time of registration) or athletes who are not their own guardian

This is to certify that I, as parent/guardian, with legal responsibility for this participant, have read and explained the provisions in this waiver/release to my child/ward including the risks of presence and participation and his/her personal responsibilities for adhering to the rules and regulations for protection against communicable diseases. Furthermore, my child/ward understands and accepts these risks and responsibilities. I for myself, my spouse, and child/ward do consent and agree to his/her release provided above for all the Releasees and myself, my spouse, and child/ward do release and agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Releasees for any and all liabilities incident to my minor child’s/ward’s presence or participation in these activities as provided above, EVEN IF ARISING FROM THEIR NEGLIGENCE, to the fullest extent provided by law.

I agree to the parent/guardian waiver.

Please enter the parent/guardian's name.

First Last

General orientation training

Thank you for joining Special Olympics Minnesota! Volunteers are essential to all Special Olympics programming and we are excited for you to join the team! In this Orientation you will learn about Special Olympics Minnesota's:

Organization
Programs
Structures

Mission

Special Olympics Minnesota offers children and adults with intellectual disabilities year-round sports training and competition. Through Special Olympics’ athlete, health and leadership programs, people with intellectual disabilities transform themselves, their communities and the world.

Outcomes

Physical fitness
Courage and joy
Sharing of gifts and skills
Friendship with family, athletes and community

Vision

Special Olympics Minnesota will be recognized as the premier organization providing essential life skills opportunities for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Our athletes will derive the full benefit of our mission through multi-level, year round sports opportunities and related health and leadership programs.

Structure

Special Olympics Minnesota (SOMN) became an accredited Special Olympics program in 1973.

SOMN serves thousands of athletes with intellectual disabilities statewide.

SOMN offers year-round sports training and competition opportunities.

SOMN also offers recreational and invitational opportunities.

SOMN conducts state, regional and recreational competitions.

Regional events feature local teams competing in different Olympic-type sports.

SOMN offers volunteer training through our coach education program, which provides sports-specific training to more than 500 coaches each year.

Worldwide, Special Olympics includes more than 4.1 million athletes from more than 175 countries.

Sports offered

Winter Season
January-March
Alpine skiing
Poly hockey
Powerlifting
Snowboarding
Snowshoeing

Spring/Summer Season
April-June
Basketball
Gymnastics
Swimming
Track & field

Summer/Fall Season
July-November
Bocce
Softball
Golf
Equestrian
Tennis

Flag Football
State Bowling

Special Olympics Minnesota athletes are eligible to compete in a variety of competitions, including:
Recreational Sports/Invitationals
Regional Competitions
State Competitions
USA Games (every 4 years)
World Games (every 2 years)

Statement of eligibility

Special Olympics training and competition is for:

Persons with an intellectual or developmental disability as identified by an agency or a professional
8 years or older (2-7 year old's are welcome to participate in Young Athletes programming)
Persons registered with Special Olympics as participant

American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Atlanto-Axial Instability

Blood-borne contagious infection carriers

Background check information

If you are a....

Coach
Coaches must receive the results of their background check before Errors & Exceptions deadlines for all competitions.
Coaches will be scratched if their results have not come back before this deadline.
Coaches who have started the background check process, but have not gotten their results by the deadline can attend competitions but will not count towards required coach ratios.

Unified Partner
Unified Partners must complete their Background check before the Errors & Exceptions deadlines for all competitions.

Young Athlete Volunteers
Young Athletes volunteers must receive the results of their background check before participating in a Young Athletes site.

Sports organization

Special Olympics is different from other sports organizations because:

Sports opportunities for all are available.
SOMN employs divisioning in competition.
'Divisioning' is combining athletes or teams with similar skill levels using age, gender, and ability.
* Ages and gender may be combined if this achieves a more accurate matching of ability.
All participants receive an award.
Athletes are eligible for advancement to higher levels of competition.

Advancement to higher level competition

Applies to USA and World Games only

Higher level competitions have a minimum training requirement (10 hours within eight weeks prior to a culminating competition) with a certified Special Olympics coach.

Training and competition must be in the same sport in which the athlete will compete.

If quotas are limited, priority is given to first-place finishers from all divisions of the sport/event based on eligibility requirements. If the number of first-place finishers exceeds the quota, athletes are selected by random draw.

Additional opportunities for athletes

Unified Schools
Young Athletes
Athlete Leadership Program (ALPs)
Healthy Athletes
SOfit

Play Unified

Unified Sports

Unified Sports are inclusive competitions that combine individuals with and without intellectual disabilities on the same team. Special Olympics Minnesota offers Unified Sports in basketball, bowling, bocce, flag football, golf, gymnastics, snowshoe, softball, swimming, tennis, and track & field.

Unified Sports enables athletes and Unified partners to:

Experience meaningful inclusion
Build an inclusive environment in their school, community and team
Socialize with peers and develop new friendships
Participate in their communities and have choices outside of Special Olympics

Watch a video featuring Unified Sports at Orono High School

Unified Schools

Special Olympics Unified Schools is an education- and sports-based strategy powered by an engaged youth community. The program aims to increase athletic and leadership opportunities for students with and without intellectual disabilities while creating inclusive school communities.

The three pillars of the program are:

Inclusive Youth Leadership
Unified Sports
Whole School Engagement

Watch a video about Unified Schools
Learn more about Unified Schools

Young Athletes

Young Athletes is an innovative sports play program for children ages 2-7 with and without intellectual disabilities. It's designed to introduce them to the world of sports prior to Special Olympics eligibility at age eight.

The goals of Young Athletes are to:

Engage children with intellectual disabilities through developmentally appropriate play activities designed to foster physical, cognitive and social development.
Welcome family members of children with and without intellectual disabilities to the Special Olympics network of support.
Raise awareness about the abilities of children with intellectual disabilities through inclusive peer participation, demonstrations and other events.
Develop skills for success as a future Special Olympics athlete:
- Foundational skills
- Balancing & jumping
- Trapping & catching
- Kicking
- Walking & running
- Throwing
- Striking
- Advanced skills

Learn more about Young Athletes

Leadership & health programs

Athlete Leadership Programs (ALPs)

The Mission of Athlete Leadership Programs (ALPs) is to empower athletes to develop leadership skills and utilize their voices to assume meaningful leadership roles, influence change in the Special Olympics movement, and educate communities around the world that results in positive life changes.

Training classes include Athletes as Coaches, Beginning Global Messenger, Graduate Global Messenger, Athletes as Volunteers, Governance and Leadership 101, Challenges Through Choice, Health & Wellness Ambassador, DIFFERbilities in Youth Leadership, & Athletes as Ambassadors.

Learn more about ALPs

Healthy Athletes

The mission of Healthy Athletes is to improve athletes’ ability to train and compete in Special Olympics. The program is designed to improve athletes health and fitness, leading to enhanced sports experience and improved well-being. Healthy Athletes has seven disciplines:

Special Smiles (dental screening)
Healthy Hearing (hearing screening)
MedFest (sports physical exam)
Fit Feet (podiatry screening)
FUNfitness (physical therapy/education)
Opening Eyes (eye exam)
Strong Minds (mental health)
Health Promotion (health information and seminars)

Learn more about Healthy Athletes

SOfit

Special Olympics Minnesota’s SOfit health promotion program is a Unified approach to improving and protecting health and wellness for people with and without intellectual disabilities. SOfit offers participants a comprehensive, 360-degree look at wellness and the human spirit. Together, athletes and Unified partners are empowered to challenge and change the way they look at diet, daily exercise and lifestyle choices.

Learn more about SOfit

Myths & benefits

Common myths about Special Olympics

Only for kids
Held just once per year
Offers just a few sports
Only for people with disabilities
Not inclusive
Too expensive
Funded by the United Way

These statements are all FALSE! Special Olympics is available to anyone regardless of their abilities or interest level, and we thank you for your support in this mission!

Proven benefits of Special Olympics participation

Improved strength, stamina and motor skills
Improved self-esteem and self confidence
Healthy, skill-dependable employees
Greater independent participation in the community
Increase social skills through teamwork, interaction with peers and people without intellectual disabilities

Communication about SOMN

Communication Tips

Do not refer to Special Olympics athletes as "kids", "children" or "kiddos". The majority of athletes participating in SOMN are over 18. It is all too common for people with intellectual disabilities to be infantilized or patronized. You can help break the cycle by using age-appropriate descriptors for members of your team.
Do not say someone "suffers" from a disability or use other negatively-charged words when talking about people with disabilities. People have a disability, and disability is not a bad word.
Avoid using "special", "differently-abled", "mentally challenged", or the R-word. "Person with an intellectual disability" is perfectly acceptable.

There are plenty of items that seem small that really make a difference on what you are trying to say

Use "Special Olympics", not "The Special Olympics"
Use "Special Olympics athletes", not "Special Olympians"
Use "Special Olympics Event", not "Special Olympic Event"
Use "Special Olympics Minnesota", not "Minnesota Special Olympics" or "Special Olympics of Minnesota"

Get involved

Every Special Olympics Minnesota program and event depends on volunteers like you! If you're interested in any of our other volunteer roles, please contact [email protected].

Volunteer roles include:

Coaches
Unified partners
Day-of event volunteers
Healthy Athletes clinicians
Donors & fundraisers
Local Sports Management
Volunteer Event Management
Young Athletes instructor

Putting it all together

Training is essential.

Competition is the means to success.

Skill, confidence, courage and joy are the outcomes of participation.

Better preparation for life is the goal of SOMN programs.

Participation results in lifelong skills and increased independence.

Special Olympics Athlete Oath

"Let me win,
But if I cannot win,
Let me be brave in the attempt."

General orientation quiz

Which of the following is used to advance athletes to higher levels of Special Olympics competitions?*

The athlete must have completed training and competition requirements with a Special Olympics Coach.

An athlete must have competed in the past at the level of competition for which they are being selected.

There are no requirements, advancement is random.

Incorrect answer! Please choose the correct answer.

What is Special Olympics Unified Sports?*

A program where a proportionate number of athletes with an intellectual disability compete together with athletes without an intellectual disability on the same team

A program where athletes from multiple Special Olympics delegations compete together on the same team

A program where all athletes are either female or male competing on the same team

Incorrect answer! Please choose the correct answer.

Does Special Olympics stress the recreational, social or competition approach to sports?*

Competition

Social

Recreational

Incorrect answer! Please choose the correct answer.

Intellectual disability is characterized by significant limitations in both:*

Intellectual functioning and adaptive behaviors

Intellectual functioning and physical abilities

Adaptive behaviors and physical abilities

Incorrect answer! Please choose the correct answer.

Which of the following is one way in which Special Olympics competition differs from other sports competitions?*

Only those athletes who finish first, second or third receive awards

Special Olympics sports do not follow recognized sports rules

Athletes are ideally separated into divisions based on their ability, age and/or gender

Incorrect answer! Please choose the correct answer.

What is the minimum amount of time (week/hours) required within a sport season that Special Olympics athletes need to train to compete?*

10 weeks/8 hours

10 weeks/10 hours

8 weeks/10 hours

Incorrect answer! Please choose the correct answer.

An individual is eligible to participate in Special Olympics competition if they have been identified by an agency or professional as having an intellectual disability; are registered with Special Olympics Minnesota; and:*

Are between ages of 8 and 21

Are a minimum of 8 years of age or older

Are a minimum of 6 years of age or older

Incorrect answer! Please choose the correct answer.

The Healthy Athletes program:*

Is designed to help Special Olympics athletes improve their health and fitness

Has five disciplines in which we do screenings

Determines what food is provided at State Games

Incorrect answer! Please choose the correct answer.

Which program is available to Special Olympics athletes who want to be involved with Special Olympics without participating in sports?*

Athlete Leadership Program (ALPs)

Regional Games

Summer Sports Camp

Incorrect answer! Please choose the correct answer.

You have one or more incorrect answers or unanswered questions! The next button will appear once you have answered all questions correctly.

Protective Behaviors training

CONTENT ALERT: This training contains mature content. If you're a minor, we recommend that you take this training with a parent or guardian.

The main objective of this training is the prevention of sexual abuse of Special Olympics athletes and youth participants. It will also briefly address physical and emotional abuse.

Actions Special Olympics has taken to protect athletes

Require Protective Behavior training
Establish volunteer screening
Compose a Code of Conduct for athletes, coaches, parents/guardians and spectators
Enact policy prohibiting volunteers or staff in authority positions from dating athletes

Screening policy

The foremost goal of the volunteer screening policy is to protect the safety and well-being of athletes. Special Olympics screens prospective Class A volunteers and rescreens every three years. If screening reveals criminal history involving certain offense, the volunteer is prohibited or restricted from participation.

Who is a Class A volunteer?

A Class A volunteer is someone who:

Has regular, close physical contact with athletes.
Is in a position of authority over or supervision of athletes.
Is in a position of trust of athletes.
Handles substantial amounts of cash or other assets of the program.

Examples:
Coaches
Unified partners
Chaperones
Overnight hosts
Drivers of athletes
Board members
Fundraising event committee members
Games management team members

Benefits and limitations

Volunteer screening is a tool that Special Olympics uses to help protect athletes, but it isn't foolproof. For example, many predators do not have criminal records.

As a volunteer, it's your responsibility to be vigilant and report any behavior or activity that doesn't appear appropriate based on your personal experience or warning signs identified in this presentation.

Code of Conduct

A code of conduct is in effect and enforced for athletes, coaches, volunteers and parents/spectators. All Special Olympics programs are required to have a code of conduct for athletes and coaches. The code lists the minimum standards set by Special Olympics.

Each program is responsible for establishing guidelines for sanctions related to breach of these codes of conduct. Included in the codes of conduct are references to the prohibition of volunteers or staff in authority positions dating athletes.

Special Olympics Minnesota's Code of Conduct

Participant Code of Conduct

Prevention

Recognizing sexual predators

A sexual predator could be anyone. There is no “look” or behavior pattern that sets them apart.

Sexual predators:

Target vulnerable populations (such as children and individuals with an intellectual disability)
Come from all backgrounds
Can identify as any gender
Are often very likable and have warm personalities
May have limited relationships with other adults

Remind athletes and families that not everyone who comes to a Special Olympics Minnesota event is a volunteer who has been screened and is assumed to be “safe.”

Inappropriate behavior

Inappropriate gifts, trips, outings or other gestures of affection from a volunteer include:

Invitations for sleepovers at a volunteer’s house
Invitations to parties at a volunteer's house where parents or care providers are not included
Excessive displays of interest in a particular athlete or group of athletes (such as all male athletes or only athletes under the age of 13)

Best practices

For athletes requiring assistance with changing, toileting or showering, it's preferable to have two volunteers present.

Private conversations with athletes should be within sight of others who are aware of the conversation.

Hugs should respect both athlete and volunteer limits and never be secretive.

Touching should avoid areas a traditional swimsuit would cover.

Be aware of unusual or inappropriate gifts, trips, affection or attention from a volunteer.

Be aware of relationships between volunteers and athletes that become private or secretive.

Be clear and direct about pointing out inappropriate behavior.

Tips for travel

Separate sleeping rooms by gender.

Assign roommates based on similar age, maturity and size.

Establish a plan for checking on each room/athlete.

Clearly explain rules and behavior expectations of both chaperones and athletes before each trip.

Emotional and physical abuse

Prevent emotional abuse

Profanity is never allowed.
Treat athletes with respect and provide encouragement.
Don’t allow demeaning nicknames even among teammates.
Discipline should be part of a meaningful behavior modification strategy and never acted on in anger.

Prevent physical abuse

Corporal punishment is never allowed no matter who says it is OK.
Withholding food or water is maltreatment and strictly prohibited.
Only give prescribed medications in accordance with state regulations (consult the Special Olympics Minnesota office for those regulations).
Be aware of athlete sensitivity to temperature, sound and touch.

Recognizing abuse

Look for these signs of abuse:

Changes in behavior*
Depression
Withdrawal (including loss of interest in participation in Special Olympics events)
Thoughts of or attempts at suicide
Aggression
Immature acts
Sleep disturbances

* Behavioral changes may be the only visible clue that an athlete is the victim of abuse. Abuse causes stress and victims often exhibit stress related behavior. Uncharacteristic changes in behavior that last more than a few days indicate a possible need for interventions, but are not a certain indicator of abuse as there are other causes of stress. Conversely, the absence of behavioral indicators does not indicate a lack of abuse.

Injuries

Injuries to genital areas may indicate sexual abuse; for example, cigarette burns on the inside of the upper leg or on the buttocks. Tether marks or rope burns and abrasions caused by tying wrists, ankles, or the neck are also indicators of probable abuse.

Some athletes are prone to injuries as a consequence of athletic competition. The location of the injury may indicate whether the injury was due to abuse or competition. Injuries that happened due to athletic competition are most likely to be on the shins, knees, elbows, etc. They are less likely to be on the abdomen, across the back, on the back of the legs, or on the facial cheeks.

Possible signs of neglect

Unattended medical needs
Inappropriate clothing for the climate and weather conditions
Chronic hunger and poor personal hygiene

Reporting suspicious activity

Suspicious activity should be reported to Special Olympics staff.

Reports will be reviewed and reported as appropriate.

Suspensions may be utilized during investigations.

Special Olympics reserves the right to expel athletes or volunteers as a result of suspected or confirmed physical, sexual or emotional abuse of a Special Olympics athlete.

When you report an incident, be prepared to answer questions like:

What makes you think this activity is suspicious?
When did you witness and/or first suspect the activity?

Who to tell

If the activity is during Special Olympics functions, tell Special Olympics Minnesota leadership (preferably staff).

If you suspect that an athlete is in immediate danger, notify the police, and then Special Olympics Minnesota staff.

If you are a mandatory reporter under your state’s laws, report as required by statue in addition to the report you file with Special Olympics Minnesota.

Reporting is NOT the same as accusing. It just alerts professionals to investigate.

Mandatory reporter

Nearly all states have laws that require some individuals to report suspected abuse (such as teachers, health care providers, etc.). In some states, everyone is a mandatory reporter.

Familiarize yourself with Minnesota's reporting requirements

Protective Behaviors quiz

How can you find out if you are a mandatory reporter in your state?*

Contact the state office to ask

Contact your local Special Olympics program manager and ask

Go online to the child welfare website

All of the above

Incorrect answer! Please choose the correct answer.

Which of the following is NOT an indicator of potential inappropriate behavior?*

Two Class A volunteers assisting with changing, showering, or toileting

Unusual or inappropriate gifts from a volunteer

Relationships between volunteers and athletes that become private or secretive

Injuries such as bruises or lacerations in soft tissue areas of an athlete's body

Incorrect answer! Please choose the correct answer.

Is it permissible for a volunteer in an authority position over an athlete to date that athlete?*

Yes

Incorrect answer! Please choose the correct answer.

When is a private meeting with an athlete appropriate?*

When the athlete requires additional coaching support

When it is within sight of others who are aware of the conversation

A private meeting with an athlete is never appropriate

When you have something personal to tell the athlete and you want to be out of earshot of his/her teammates

Incorrect answer! Please choose the correct answer.

When assigning rooms for an overnight stay, what should you consider?*

That athletes from the same community often prefer to room together

Separate sleeping rooms by gender and assign roommates based on similar age, maturity and size

What's to consider? Go through your list and group the athletes alphabetically by last name

Try to put athletes who are friends together

Incorrect answer! Please choose the correct answer.

Is a Unified Partner subject to volunteer screening policies in the U.S.?*

Yes

Incorrect answer! Please choose the correct answer.

What is the rule about what areas of the body to avoid touching?*

Set some ground rules early, so you know where your athlete is okay with being touched

Avoid areas a swimsuit would cover

Avoid areas where they don't like to be touched

Avoid all areas

Incorrect answer! Please choose the correct answer.

When is it appropriate to withhold water from an athlete?*

When the weather is cool and water isn't really needed

Only when the athlete is unprepared or uncooperative

When the athlete is underachieving and could use a "water break" as motivation

Never

Incorrect answer! Please choose the correct answer.

Who determines the discipline policy for violating a Special Olympics Code of Conduct?*

Society

The Program

Any Special Olympics staff member in a position of authority

The Coach with guidance from Special Olympics staff

Incorrect answer! Please choose the correct answer.

You have one or more incorrect answers or unanswered questions! The next button will appear once you have answered all questions correctly.

Concussion training

Concussions can result in long-term physical, mental, and emotional problems. You can’t always prevent a head injury in sports, but there are things you can do to give athletes the best chance of recovery if a concussion happens.

After this training, you’ll know how to recognize and respond to a concussion.

Defining concussions

What is a concussion?

Concussions are a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head or by a hit to the body that causes a person’s head to move rapidly back and forth. ”

All concussions are potentially serious. They can cause short- and long-term problems featuring physical, emotional and/or cognitive changes.

Concussions can happen in any sport.

How does a concussion occur?

A bump, blow or jolt to the head can cause a concussion, as can a forceful collision with another player or the ground. An athlete doesn’t have to be hit in the head to have a concussion. 9 out of 10 concussions do not include a loss of consciousness.

Observing your players

Concussions can happen any time in any sport. Concussions have many different symptoms, some of which aren’t very obvious. It’s important to observe your athletes and to know what to watch for. Be sure to have equipment that properly fits your players and is appropriate for the sport.

Concussion symptoms

Headache
Neck pain
Pressure sensation
Double or fuzzy vision
Balance problems
Dizziness
Memory problems
Sluggishness
Feeling foggy
Sensitivity to light and or noise
Nausea
Sleep problems
Difficulty concentrating

Does your athlete have a concussion?

An athlete might have a concussion if they:

Appear dazed or stunned
Seem confused
Forget plays or instructions
Are unsure about game, score or opponent
Move clumsily (altered coordination)
Exhibit balance problems
Show changes in mood, behavior or personality
Respond slowly to questions
Forget events before or after the hit/fall/injury
Lose consciousness

When does a concussion require emergency medical attention?

If a concussion is serious enough, an athlete may require immediate medical attention.

Rush an athlete to an emergency department immediately if an athlete:

Loses consciousness
Is persistently vomiting
Becomes increasingly more confused or restless

Three phrases to remember

Remember the three simple phrases to know what to do if you suspect a concussion.

When in doubt, keep ‘em out.
If you suspect a concussion, keep them out until you have received clearance from the athlete’s healthcare provider.

Stand tall. Make the call.
A good coach errs on the side of caution.

No play without okay.
Don’t let any concussed athlete return to play without medical clearance. Don’t let them play, even with medical clearance, if you are still noticing signs and symptoms.

Reporting a concussion and returning to play

If you suspect that an athlete has suffered a concussion:

Provide a letter to the athlete’s parent, guardian or care provider.
This letter instructs the athlete that they must see a healthcare provider and receive medical clearance before returning to play.
Complete a Special Olympics Minnesota Accident Report form.
Send the form to the SOMN office at [email protected] within 72 hours of the incident.

Returning an athlete to play

Return to play is a medical decision. One of the following must occur if a concussion is suspected:

The athlete must sit out for a minimum of 7 consecutive days and a healthcare provider must provide written clearance for the athlete to return to play.
or
A healthcare provider must determine that the athlete did not suffer a concussion and provide written clearance for the athlete to return to play immediately (no 7 day wait is necessary).

The athlete must have a note from a healthcare provider before he/she can play again. This note must be sent to the SOMN offices at [email protected] for inclusion in the athlete’s file.

Return to play progression

An athlete must be free of all symptoms and be cleared by a healthcare provider. If an athlete is cleared by a healthcare provider, but you still notice that they are exhibiting symptoms, pull them from play and repeat the reporting process.

Cognitive and physical rest are both needed to heal from a concussion. Every concussion is different and a healthcare provider will provide specific instructions to return the athlete to play.

Coaches must follow the instructions of the healthcare provider to ensure the athlete doesn’t experience a second injury. This may include gradually increasing the athlete’s intensity upon return to the sport.

Concussion training review

Follow the game plan

If you suspect an athlete has a concussion, keep them out of the game.
Complete the correct paperwork and inform the athlete’s parent, guardian or care provider.
Don't let the athlete play again until they've been cleared by a healthcare provider and you have a note stating that the athlete can return to play.

Remember the three phrases

When in doubt, keep ‘em out.

Stand tall. Make the call.

No play without okay.

Get more information on the Concussion Policy and forms

Concussion quiz

Concussions are traumatic brain injuries.*

True

False

Incorrect answer! Please choose the correct answer.

You have to be hit on the head to have a concussion.*

True

False

Incorrect answer! Please choose the correct answer.

A concussion must involve a loss of consciousness or being knocked out for at least a few seconds.*

False

True

Incorrect answer! Please choose the correct answer.

When can a concussion occur?*

In any organized or unorganized recreational sport or activity

Only when the individual was hit or loses consciousness

Only when playing full contact sports

Incorrect answer! Please choose the correct answer.

Which of the following are signs of a concussion that you, as a coach, may identify?*

The athlete follows the rules for safety and the rules of the sport, practices good sportsmanship, and uses the proper equipment for the sport

The athlete is behaving normally

The athlete appears stunned, is unsure of the game, score or opponent, is confused about their assignment or position, or is answering questions slowly

Incorrect answer! Please choose the correct answer.

Which of the following are symptoms of a concussion that an athlete may describe?*

The athlete complains of dizziness and says they have balance problems

The athlete states the light hurts their eyes, and complains of a headache

The athlete says they're hungry and are feeling weak

Both the first and second statements

Incorrect answer! Please choose the correct answer.

What is the first thing you should do as a coach if one of your athletes has been jolted, sustained a bump or blow to the head or body?*

Allow the athlete to finish out the quarter, inning, etc. and then take the athlete for a medical examination

Remove the athlete from play and look for signs or symptoms of a concussion

Immediately rush the athlete to the hospital, even if none of the danger signs are present

Incorrect answer! Please choose the correct answer.

Which of the following would indicate a medical emergency of a severe concussion and require rushing an athlete to the hospital emergency department?*

The athlete loses consciousness, is persistently vomiting or seems to become increasingly more confused and restless

The athlete complains of having neck pain and a headache

The athlete seems slightly off balance and isn't feeling quite right

Incorrect answer! Please choose the correct answer.

When can an athlete return to play after a concussion?*

When the parent, guardian or care provider says it's okay for the athlete to return to play

As soon as they are feeling better

After being cleared by a health provider, and after showing no additional signs/symptoms of a concussion

Incorrect answer! Please choose the correct answer.

As a coach, how can you help prevent concussions?*

By working with parents, athletes and coaches to spread awareness about concussions all year, including pre-season, during the season and post-season

By teaching the athletes to always play hard and win at all costs

By ensuring all athletes wear properly fitted protective equipment, practice good sportsmanship at all times, and follow the rules of play

Both the first and third statements

Incorrect answer! Please choose the correct answer.

You have one or more incorrect answers or unanswered questions! The next button will appear once you have answered all questions correctly.

Consent & waiver of liability

Background check reminder
In accordance with Special Olympics International policy, all Class A Volunteers over the age of 18 must have a criminal background check that includes a check against a national vendor database and the sex offender registry for each State in which the sex offender registry is available. Class A Volunteers include volunteers who have regular, close physical contact with athletes such as coaches, chaperones, Unified Partners, local sports management team members, heads of delegation, ALPs mentors, drivers for athletes and volunteers who have administrative or fiscal authority. Special Olympics Minnesota contracts with Sterling Volunteers to perform our background checks. Once your application has been processed by our office, you may receive an email from Sterling Volunteers ([email protected]) with a link to confirm your background check. The link will be active for 5 days, so please watch your email. It may go to your email's junk or spam folder. If your background check is current, you will not receive an email until it expires. Special Olympics Minnesota will incur the cost of your background check.

Please scroll through the text in the box below and ensure that you understand the waiver points before signing.*

I agree to the following:

I affirm under penalty of perjury, that all answers are truthful and understand that Special Olympics Minnesota (SOMN) may refuse to allow me to volunteer if I provide incorrect information or withheld information. The information that I have provided will be verified, and I give permission to SOMN to make an inquiry of others concerning my suitability to act as a SOMN volunteer. The relationship between SOMN and volunteers is an "at will" arrangement and it may be terminated at any time without cause by either the volunteer or Special Olympics.

1. Ability to Participate. I am physically able to take part in SOMN activities.

2. Likeness Release. I give permission Special Olympics, Inc., Special Olympics games/local organizing committees, and Special Olympics accredited Programs (collectively “Special Olympics”) and Special Olympics partners and sponsors to use my likeness, photo, video, name, voice, words, and biographical information to promote Special Olympics, raise funds for Special Olympics, and acknowledge partners’ and sponsors’ support for Special Olympics.

3. Risk of Concussion and Other Injury. I know there is a risk of injury. I understand the risk of continuing to participate with or after a concussion or other injury. I may have to get medical care if I have a suspected concussion or other injury. I also may have to wait 7 days or more and get permission from a doctor before I start playing sports again.

4. Emergency Care. If I am unable, or my guardian is unavailable, to consent or make medical decisions in an emergency, I authorize SOMN to seek medical care on my behalf.

5. Health Programs. If I take part in a health program as a participant, I consent to health activities, screenings, and treatment. This should not replace regular health care. I can say no to treatment or anything else at any time.

6. Personal Information. I understand that SOMN will be collecting my personal information as part of my participation, including my name, image, address, telephone number, health information, and other personally identifying and health related information I provide to Special Olympics (“personal information”).

I agree and consent to Special Olympics:
• using my personal information in order to: make sure I am eligible and can participate safely; run trainings and events; share competition results (including on the Web and in news media); provide health treatment if I participate in a health program; analyze data for the purposes of improving programming and identifying and responding to the needs of Special Olympics participants; perform computer operations, quality assurance, testing, and other related activities; and provide event-related services.
• using my personal information for communications and marketing purposes, including direct digital marketing through email, text message, and social media.
• sharing my personal information with (i) researchers, such as universities and public health agencies, that are studying intellectual disabilities and the impact of Special Olympics activities, (ii) medical professionals in an emergency, and (iii) government authorities for the purpose of assisting me with any visas required for international travel to Special Olympics events and for any other purpose necessary to protect public safety, respond to government requests, and report information as required by law.
• I have the right to ask to see my personal information or to be informed about the personal information that is processed about me. I have the right to ask to correct and delete my personal information, and to restrict the processing of my personal information if it is inconsistent with this consent.
• In the course of volunteering for Special Olympics, I may be dealing with confidential information and I agree to keep said information in the strictest confidence.
• Privacy Policy. Personal information may be used and shared consistent with this form and as further explained in the Special Olympics privacy policy at specialolympics.org/privacy-policy.aspx.

7. Background Check Authorization. [APPLIES TO ADULTS 18 YEARS & OLDER] I authorize Special Olympics to conduct a background check on me. Refusal to do so will exclude me from consideration for most types of volunteer work with Special Olympics. This background check may be done through a third party. The background check may include an inquiry into my employment, education, driving, and/or criminal history. I understand that Special Olympics may rely on information provided or discovered to determine whether I may participate in Special Olympics activities. I authorize investigators to conduct a background check as described in this form. I further authorize any third parties or agencies who may be in possession of the requested information, to disclose such information in connection with this background check.

8. Waiver and Liability Release. I understand the risks involved with participation in Special Olympics activities. I fully accept and assume all such risks and all responsibility for losses, costs, and damages I may incur as a result of my participation. I hereby release and agree not to sue any Special Olympics organization, its directors, agents, volunteers, and employees, and other participants (“Releasees”) related to any liabilities, claims, or losses on my account caused or alleged to be caused in whole or in part by the Releasees. I further agree that if, despite this release, I, or anyone on my behalf, makes a claim against any of the Releasees, I will indemnify and hold harmless each of the Releasees from any such liabilities, claims, or losses as the result of such claim. I agree that if any part of this form is held to be invalid, the other parts shall continue in full force and effect.

I affirm that I have read and understand the above information and that the information I have given Special Olympics Minnesota is true and complete.

By checking this box, I agree to the above Consent and Waiver of Liability. If I am under the age of 18, may parent or guardian agrees to the above Consent and Waiver of Liability.

Minors, please enter the name of your parent/guardian.

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Please check the Consent & Waiver of Liability box. The submit button will appear once you have done so.