News from the Field Department - February 2022

It feels like there is a chance that COVID’s bid to become permanent is a losing one.  We have waited a long time to get back to action and it is exciting to see activity picking up.  As a Field Director, I am aware that some programs have never stopped working with their athletes – either virtually or in person and some have shut down completely.  The past few years have been a challenge of adapting and overcoming obstacles.  Our athletes do this Every. Single. Day.  We owe it to them to do the same.  We recognize that we have lost volunteers and coaches. The challenge of finding new coaches and volunteers is a big one.  So, as you begin to renew your program and increase your activity – here are a few tips to remember:

• Facility Contracts: If an old or new training facility needs a signed contract for you to practice there – DO NOT SIGN!  Send a copy of the contract to Rene Waterson at American Specialties (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) and, when she “okays it,” send to John Brownson at SOPA (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) to get it properly signed.
• Site Request Forms (Site Request Form): Once you find a facility – go to the SOPA web page and fill out the Site Request information.  You will need the name and contact information of a volunteer to be COVID Coordinator and also the days and times you will practice 
• Screening & Tracking Form: After the Site Request is endorsed by your Program Manager or Regional Executive Director – the Screening and Tracking form will be sent to the COVID Coordinator and the Manager/Director.  This form is to be used to track athlete attendance and health at your site.  It is an easy form to fill out online. You will also need all of your participants to fill out the Communicable Diseases Participant Risk Assessment, Code of Conduct and Waiver
• Clearances, Certifications & Athlete Medicals: Make sure your coaches are current in their clearances and certifications.  Also check on your Athlete Medical forms. 
• Safety First: Pay attention to the R2A protocols and keep everyone safe. https://specialolympicspa.org/covid-19-protocols
• Positive COVID Participant: IF you hear of an athlete or volunteer who has tested positive or who has had exposure to someone who has tested positive – please inform your Field Director or the Sports Director for your Region.  Tracking and tracing is extremely important and we can guide the athlete or volunteer on how to return to activity safely. 
• NEW Athletes & Volunteers: So far today, I have had 2 calls about families who want to get involved in Special Olympics.  As the COVID danger lessens, we will have new volunteers, coaches and athletes coming forward to join – be sure to be welcoming.  Share program information and get them connected.  The sooner and smoother we can get an athlete or volunteer into the system the better! 

As always, if you have questions or concerns in this transitional time – please do not hesitate to contact someone from the Field.  

Your Field Team