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Special Olympics offers training and competition opportunities in 30 Olympic-type sports for athletes 8 years or older.  For children with intellectual disabilities ages 2 through 7, Special Olympics provides a Young Athletes Program. Special Olympics coaches have a unique opportunity to work with athletes in competitive situations to assist in their training for life. As a grass-roots organization, Special Olympics relies on volunteers at all levels of the movement to ensure that every athlete is offered a quality sports training and competition experience. Individual donors, corporate partners and many others make it possible for Special Olympics to offer children and adults with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage and experience joy through participation in the program.
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Riding a ski lift (ski lift awareness)

There may be a variety of ski lifts offered at ski areas around the world. At this level the athlete will use the ski lift that accesses the easiest terrain.
 
 
 
Lift 1  
 
 
T Bar Lift  
 
 
Chair Lift  

Teaching Points
  1. Have your athlete watch other skiers using the ski lift so that he/she becomes more familiar with the process.
  2. Simulate, with your athlete, lift procedures (getting on and getting off of the ski lift) and etiquette.
  3. Communicate with the lift operators that your athlete is a new rider on the ski lift, and allow them to help your athlete.
  4. When possible, the coach should ride with your athlete on the ski lift.
  5. While on the ski lift, reiterate to your athlete the process of getting off of the ski lift.
 
 
 
Error Correction
Athlete is afraid of heights.
Coach must redirect the focus of the athlete.
Athlete forgets to get off of the lift.
Assist the lift operator, as appropriate.
Athlete falls off the ski lift.
Assess the situation and ensure the safety of the athlete.

Review lift procedures with your athlete.
 
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