Special Olympics, SO, is a year-round multi-sports program for people with an intellectual disability – of all capabilities ranging from 12 years old. SO is committed to coaching excellence.   The most important thing to know as a coach in SO is that your athletes are individuals, and coaching them is just like coaching any other youth or community sports team.  The skills that make successful coaches are the same - commitment, great communication skills, knowledge and understanding of sport (in particular aquatics programs), confidence and positive encouragement. We recognise though that coaching SO athletes is a unique, rewarding and very enjoyable experience.