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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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Floor Hockey Attire

Floor Hockey AttireAppropriate floor hockey attire is required for all competitors. As a coach, discuss the types of sport clothes that are acceptable and not acceptable for training and competition. Discuss the importance of wearing properly fitted clothing, along with the advantages and disadvantages of certain types of clothing worn during training and competitions. A coach should set the example by wearing appropriate attire to training and competitions.
 
Shirts
For training, the athlete should wear a T-shirt that is comfortable and allows freedom of movement in the shoulders. For competition, the athlete should wear a clean uniform shirt that has a number on the back (see rules for proper numbering of uniforms). All shirts should be long enough to keep tucked into the athlete's shorts/ pants.
 
Pants/Shorts
Coaches should encourage athletes to wear appropriate athletic attire such as sweatpants, warm-up pants or shorts. For example, jeans or jean shorts are not proper floor hockey attire for either training or competition. Explain that the athletes should not perform while wearing jeans that restrict their movement.
 
Shoes and Socks
Probably the most important article of clothing an athlete wears when playing floor hockey is properly fitting shoes. High-top basketball or athletic shoes are recommended because they provide the athlete with the best foot and ankle support. A cushioned insole and good arch and heel support are things to look for in a quality athletic shoe. Make sure laces are laced to the top. Discourage black-soled shoes that may leave marks on the playing surface. Socks should be worn to help prevent blisters.
 
Outerwear
The athlete should wear appropriate outerwear for warming up before, and for staying warm after, a floor hockey training or game. Teams sometimes wear warm-up pants during a game for more protection. A medium-weight cotton sweatshirt and sweatpants are excellent and inexpensive outerwear. Encourage your athletes to bring appropriate outerwear that may keep them warm after training.
 
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