Special Olympics is rooted in the values of respect, fairness, and the true spirit of sport. We expect all coaches to uphold these values on and off the field.

By participating in Special Olympics, coaches agree to follow this Code of Conduct during all Special Olympics events, competitions, and any time they are representing their team, Special Olympics, or Special Olympics Colorado (SOCO).

Respect for Others

• I will respect the rights, dignity and worth of athletes, coaches, staff, volunteers, friends and spectators in Special Olympics.
• I will treat everyone equally and with kindness.
• I will be a positive role model.

Ensure a Positive Experience

• I will do my part to make sure every athlete I coach feels valued, supported, and has a positive experience with Special Olympics.
• I will respect the talent, developmental stage and goals of each athlete.
• I will ensure each athlete competes in events that challenge their potential and are appropriate to that athlete’s ability.
• I will be fair, considerate and honest with athletes and communicate with athletes using clear language.
• I will ensure that accurate scores are provided for entry of an athlete into any event.
• I will instruct each athlete to perform in accordance with the Official Special Olympics Sports Rules.

Act Professionally and Take Responsibility for My Actions

• I will model professionalism through my words, actions, and preparation.
• I will display control, respect, dignity and professionalism to all involved in Special Olympics, including but not limited to athletes, coaches, opponents, officials, administrators, staff, parents, spectators, and the media.
• I will encourage athletes to demonstrate these same qualities.
• I will not drink alcohol, smoke or take illegal drugs while representing Special Olympics at training sessions, competition or during games.
• I will refrain from any form of abuse towards athletes including verbal, physical and emotional abuse.
• I will never engage in, attempt, or tolerate any form of sexual contact, misconduct, or inappropriate behavior toward athletes.
• I will abide by the policy which prohibits coaches / volunteers from dating athletes.
• I will abide by Principals of Meaningful Involvement.

Quality Service to the Athletes

• I will seek continual improvement through performance evaluation and ongoing coach education.
• I will be knowledgeable of and follow the Special Olympics Sports Rules for the sport(s) I coach, ensuring I teach skills and strategies in alignment with those rules.
• I will provide a plan for a regular training program.

Health and Safety of Athletes

• I will ensure that the equipment, rules, training and environment are safe and appropriate for the age and ability of the athletes.
• I will be aware of and support each athlete’s individual needs.
• I will provide consistent care, encouragement, and support to all athletes, including those who are sick or injured.
• I will allow further participation in training and competition only when appropriate.

Code of Conduct Acknowledgment

Special Olympics Colorado is committed to creating a safe and respectful environment for everyone. All participants are expected to follow the Code of Conduct, and any concerns or violations will be reviewed by the Code of Conduct Review Committee.

I understand that if I do not follow the Code of Conduct, I may lose the opportunity to participate in Special Olympics activities.