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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.
English > Coach > Coaching Guides > Floor Hockey > Floor Hockey Rules Protocol and Etiquette > Floor Hockey Protocol and Etiquette
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Floor Hockey Protocol & Etiquette

The establishing of proper protocols and etiquette at both training and competition is an important point from which to begin teaching sportsmanship. Being polite and respectful will set a proper example from which the athletes can learn.
 
 
 
For Coaches
  • Arrive at training facility 15 minutes before the scheduled start time
  • Come prepared to coach; know and understand the rules
  • Ensure that athletes are wearing proper equipment before training begins
  • Ensure that athletes participate in warm-ups, stretching and drills
  • Have a copy of an up-to-date medical for every athlete
  • Treat all athletes in the same manner
  • Speak calmly when giving instructions or corrections
  • Call players by their first names
  • Maintain a calm and pleasant demeanor
  • Listen to both athletes and parents when they have concerns
  • Answer the athletes' questions in a respectful and reassuring tone
  • Treat others as you would wish to be treated
  • Set rules and expectations for all athletes and coaches
 
For Athletes
  • Come prepared and on time to training
  • Notify coach if not able to attended training
  • Wear proper clothing for training (athletic shoes and properly fitted clothing)
  • Give your best effort during training
  • Notify coach of illness or injury
 
 
 
For Coaches
  • Ensure that you bring enough equipment
  • Know where athletes are during the competition
  • Get paperwork done on time or early (score sheets, etc.)
  • Review all competition rules and procedures
  • Attend all coaches meetings
  • Encourage your athletes to play to the best of their ability at all times
  • Practice the Honest Effort Rule
  • Ensure athletes are wearing proper equipment and attire before competition begins
  • Have a copy of an up-to-date medical for every athlete
  • Treat all competition staff with respect; remember, they are also volunteers
  • Maintain a calm demeanor throughout the competition
  • Never use foul language or raise your voice in an angry tone
  • Thank the competition staff and officials
  • Set rules and expectations for all athletes and coaches
 
For Athletes
  • Come prepared and on time to competition
  • Notify coach if not able to attend competition
  • Wear proper clothing to compete in (athletic shoes and properly fitted clothing)
  • Give your best effort during the competition
 
 
Coaching Tips
  • Use positive reinforcement when speaking to athletes
  • Teach waiting one's turn during drills
  • Teach good sportsmanship at all times
  • Teach shaking hands at the end of all competitions
  • Encourage athletes to cheer on teammates during training and competition
 
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