Family members, guardians and friends play an important role in an athlete’s experience.  Listed below are some very important items that you can do to support our athletes, coaches and your local program.

Help Athlete Prepare for Training

• Plenty of rest
• Healthy diet
• Practice sports skills between trainings

Help Athlete Prepare for Competition

• Oversee packing
• Review the Athlete Code of Conduct
• Make sure coach knows how to reach you in case of an emergency
• Check with coach to see that all medications and physical conditions listed are current
• Have all medications and directions for administering clearly marked

Provide Transportation to Trainings and Competitions

• Be on time - Prompt drop off and pick up of athletes
• Don’t leave until you confirm coaches/leaders are present

Encourage, Support and Cheer Athlete

• To always do their best
• De-emphasize winning and losing
• Attend practices, competitions and family socials
• Positive cheering (see Spectator Guidelines below)

Accurate Athlete Medicals

• Provide an updated medical form every 3 years
• Update medical and insurance coverage changes promptly

Say Thank You

• Acknowledge the contributions of the coaches and volunteers
• Encourage your athlete to do the same

Spectator Guidelines

As family members and friends of Special Olympics athletes, you can play a positive role at Special Olympics Pennsylvania events by following these suggested guidelines:

1.    Please refrain from using abusive or offensive language, especially toward officials, coaches and  opponents.

• Lead by positive example.
• Keep your emotions under control.  Don’t let your emotions interfere with our mission or oath. Remember, these individuals are volunteers and amateur athletes.
• It may help if you understand the rules of the competition.  If you need further information or clarification ask your home program for a copy of the rules during the season so you are a well-informed fan.

2.    Special Olympics competitions are positive encouragement arenas. Please conduct yourself appropriately.

• Lead by positive example.
• De-emphasize winning and losing.
• Let the coaches be the ones who coach the players – refrain from shouting instructions.
• Provide general cheers or positive comments after the fact/play.  Remember to abide by sport-specific rules (i.e., silence at the start of races, during a tee-off in golf).

3.    Spectators are provided designated areas.  You are prohibited in the competition areas.  Only coaches and athletes who are participating may be in these areas.

• Lead by positive example.

Failure to comply with the above guidelines may result in penalties being assessed toward your team or you being escorted from the venue.  DON’T LET THIS HAPPEN!  ENJOY BEING A GREAT FAN!