2017 Unified Track & Field Coaches Resource Guide

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1 2017 Unified Track & Field Coaches Resource Guide

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3 Table of Contents COMPETITION Special Olympics Resources... 3 Official Rules and Overview Overview Event & Entries... 4 Entry Requirements Event Rules Review Divisioning & Team Scoring Points of Emphasis Uniform Requirements Season Timeline State Invitational Fact Sheet ADMINISTRATION Application for Participation Affirmation of Eligibility form Coaches Forms Contact Information District Representatives & SOMD Staff District Map Notes... 28

4 RESOURCES Learn more by visiting the links below: Basics of Coaching hing_guides/eum6xn4n/the_basi.pdf (Athletic) Track & Field Coaching Guide Coaching Special Olympics Athletes course, offered by America Sport Education Program Athlete Centered Coaching Guide 3

5 Official Rules and Overview of the Unified Team Track and Field Program Overview 1. A Unified Track and Field team shall consist of rosters of 12 or more student-athletes who are of similar ages. 2. Unified Track and Field teams shall consist of an approximately equal number of athletes with intellectual and/or physical disabilities and partners without intellectual and/or physical disabilities. To promote an inclusive environment, as a guideline it is recommended a Unified Track and Field team be composed proportionally of students with and without disabilities however, no more than 70% of the roster may be composed of students with disabilities or students without disabilities. 3. It is permitted for teams that do not meet the 12 student-athlete minimum roster size to combine with a team in their district in order compete. 4. All student-athletes need to have the appropriate paperwork required by the county s school system, as well as a Special Olympics Maryland Application for Participation. 5. Teams are permitted to have one head coach or two co-head coaches. They may also have assistant coaches. 6. Coaches must meet the standards delineated by the county as well as Special Olympics Maryland. They are required to complete and submit a Special Olympics Maryland Volunteer Class A form. Events & Entries 1. All track and field events will follow National Federation of State High School Associations rules, except where there are specific adjustments allowed by Special Olympics Summer Sports Rules for Athletics ( National Federation rule book is available for sale at - itunes, Amazon, ebook/dp/b01mskwvkg/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=utf8&qid= &sr=1-1&refinements=p_27%3anfhs*. * - please consider using Amazon Smile to benefit Special Olympics Maryland. 2. Following are the official events offered at all Unified Track and Field competitions: Track Events Field Events 100 meters Mini-Javelin 200 meters Shot Put 400 meters Running Long Jump 800 meters 4 x 100 meter relay 4 x 400 meter relay 4

6 Entry Requirements 1. Participants may enter one individual track event and one individual field event. They may also be selected to participate on one relay team. 2. Relay teams must consist of two runners with disabilities and two people without disabilities (i.e. Unified Partners). Coaches can place their runners in any order. 3. A Unified Track and Field (school) team may enter a maximum of two 4 x 100-meter relay teams and two 4 x 400 meter relay teams. Combined school teams will pre-designate two 4 x 100- meter relay teams and two 4 x 400 meter relay teams as competing teams. The remaining relay teams, maximized at two per event, if available, may participate as exhibition. Event Rules Review Every coach should obtain a copy of the rules. Below are some rule reminders and highlights of common points of confusion and concern. 1. Track Events a. Race Assistance i. Student-athlete must race by him/herself. i. Coach/family member/escort staff will not run, walk with, or move with student-athletes (on or off the track). ii. Student-athlete will be disqualified if the aforementioned is violated. b. Event Selection i. Select appropriate events A student should not be entered in an event in which they cannot successfully compete i.e. a student-athlete is unable to run or a student-athlete is unable to move his/her wheelchair manually, they should not be entered in track events. ii. Visually impaired student-athletes adaptations: a. May use guide rope b. May use human guide provided by meet if run on a curve or unable to use guide rope c. In races run in lanes and including with a curve: 1. Student-athlete must stay in lane cutting into an inside lane is a disqualification. 2. In races run entirely on straight part of track, no DQ for leaving lane (unless impede or leave the track). c. Lane Violations i. In all races run in lanes, each competitor shall keep within his/her allocated lane from start to finish. ii. Student-athlete using assistive devices (e.g. canes, crutches, or walker) will use two lanes as his/her lane, sufficiently wide enough to allow for assistive devices. Athletes must provide their own assisted devices. iii. If a competitor is pushed or forced by another person to run outside his/her lane, and if no material advantage is gained, the competitor should not be disqualified. iv. If a competitor either runs outside his/her lane in the straight or runs outside the outer lane on the bend, with no material advantage thereby being gained, and if no other runner is obstructed, then the competitor shall not be disqualified. 5

7 d. Starts i. All races will start with a gun without exception. ii. All student-athletes should be trained to start with a gun. iii. In extreme cases, starter will reposition himself/herself (at the starter s sole discretion) but will still use gun. iv. Student-athlete must start race by himself/herself. v. Starter may request a coach or (credentialed) school system professional to stand with athlete until start of race (at starter s discretion). vi. If student-athlete cannot handle starting with a gun or starting by himself/herself, he/she should not be in that event. vii. Student-athletes with hearing impairments should watch for smoke of gun; may get a supplemental tap start or supplemental flag start at starter s discretion. e. Start Commands i. Races up to and including 400M use a three command start: a. On your marks (settle into stance and/or get into starting blocks) b. Set (athletes must settle into stance and be still) c. Gun fires ii. Races longer than 400M use a two command start a. On your marks b. Gun fires iii. Student-athletes can use starting blocks in races up to & including 400M NOTE: May use a volunteer to anchor back of starting block. f. Races i. 200M Race 1. Stagger start 2. Must stay in lanes throughout ii. 400M Race 1. Stagger start 2. Must stay in lanes throughout iii. 800M Race 1. Waterfall start can break immediately as long as he/she does not impede. 2. The last lap in individual races distances of two laps or more will be signified with a bell. iv. 4x100M 1. Stagger start 2. Must stay in lanes throughout v. 4x400M 1. 1 turn stagger start a. 1 st runners must stay in lane around first turn. b. 1 st runners can cut in at the breakline after completing first turn. Relay Notes c. Passing baton - 1) Must be entirely within exchange zone; 2) If dropped during exchange, the incoming runner must pick it up and complete the exchange; 3) May use fly zone 6

8 g. Relay Teams i. Two (2) alternates may be registered for each relay team. One may only serve as an alternate for a (single) relay team, not multiple relay teams. Alternates MUST be registered for the specific event in compliance with the registration deadlines and can only replace a person of like role; for example, a person with a disability can be activated for a person with a disability. An alternate may only be activated in the instance of absence or illness/injury. The Maximum Effort Rule (see Supplement) will be strictly applied to all relay teams, regardless of alternates, with a 20% threshold, meaning any team out performing their qualifying time by 20% or more will be (automatically) disqualified. ii. Point of emphasis: 1. SECTION , The coach must be provided an opportunity to submit an improved performance score if the score recorded in the divisioning competition is not a true reflection of the athlete s ability., Special Olympics Sports Rules, ARTICLE 1 (VERSION: June 2016) h. Track events for Athletes using wheelchairs. To provide competitive opportunities for athletes using wheelchairs, races will be conducted in each of the following distances: 100M, 200M, 400M, and 800M. Notes 1) Motorized wheelchairs shall not be allowed in regular (manual) wheelchair races; 2) Only athletes who ambulate by use of a wheelchair may participate in the events; 3) Athletes shall not be pushed, pulled, or otherwise assisted during these events; 4) The lanes for the wheelchair events shall be made two track-lanes wide. Wheelchair race event management If there is only a one-entry division wheelchair race, the division will be permitted to compete in a mixed race along-side runners in the specific race. Single wheelchair participants compete against the clock and should be encouraged to acquire a personal best. 7

9 2. Field Events a. Shot Put (3.0 kg) i. The competitor must not leave the circle until the implement has touched the ground and thereafter must exit only from the rear half of the ring. ii. The competitor may touch the inside of the iron band only. iii. The competitor must start from a stationary position. iv. The Shot must be held near the neck or chin the throwing arm must not drop behind or below the shoulder level. v. The competitor may not touch the top of the stop-board. vi. Any part of the body may extend over the band or stop-board provided it does not touch the ground outside the circle. vii. If the throwing implement lands on a sector line, it is considered a foul. viii. To break ties, go to the next best performance. b. (Running) Long Jump i. Front of toeboard is 1 meter from the edge of the sand pit. a. Most long jump pits do not have a 1 meter toeboard. b. Make one from chalk or adhesive tape. c. Do not use duct tape (too slippery with wet shoe soles). ii. Student-athletes must be able to jump at least 1 meter to enter this event. iii. If the student-athlete does not reach the pit, it is a fault. iv. Jumpers can place a marker on the side of runway (not on runway itself). v. Measure from the nearest impression in sand made by student-athlete (even if made by the brush of clothing). 8

10 c. Mini-Javelin (400G) i. The Mini-Javelin is held by the grip in one hand only, with at least the little finger on the grip or whipcord. ii. While in the act of throwing the Mini-Javelin, the competitor may not do a 360- degree turn around during his/her run up. iii. The Mini-Javelin must be released with an over the shoulder motion only. No side arm or below the shoulder releases iv. The competitor may not place any marks on the runway. v. The competitor must remain in the delivery area behind the arc until the Javelin strikes the ground; then leave from behind the arc and the lines drawn from the extremities of the arc. vi. To break ties between competitors, the next best performance is used. vii. It is counted as a foul if the competitor touches, with any part of the body, the arc as marked, or any ground beyond the arc or throwing box. viii. Runway is 4 meters wide and minimum of 8 meters long see image below. 9

11 (SPECIAL OLYMPICS, INC.) General Rules for Field Events Measurements, Time requirements to initiate an attempt, and Wind gauges a. In the long jump, standing long jump and throwing events (shot put and mini-javelin) each athlete shall be allowed three non-consecutive attempts. All three attempts shall be measured and recorded for breaking ties. The longest measurement of the three attempts shall be used for scoring. Athletes second best, and then third best, attempts shall be used to break ties. b. For individual field event competitions, Long Jump, Standing Long Jump, and throws) and combined events, a competitor shall be charged with a foul if the competitor does not initiate and attempt within 1 minute after the competitor s name has been called, in addition to a visual indication made by the event judge. For the High Jump, where there are three or more athletes remaining in the competition the time shall be 1 minute. Where there are 2 or 3 athletes remaining in the competition the time shall be 1.5 minutes. Where there is 1 remaining athlete in the competition the time shall be 2 minutes. 10

12 Divisioning and Team Scoring 1. Competition is conducted in co-ed divisions composed of competitors with similar abilities. Divisions consist of competitors with and without disabilities and are only determined by the participants ability levels as expressed by times or distances. 2. Qualifying times and distances for each competitor must be submitted at least 10 days prior to a competition for the events in which he or she will be entered. For example, if a participant will be entered in the 400 meters and the running long jump, qualifying scores must be submitted for each event. 3. As a guideline, the variance between the highest and lowest score in a competition division should be no more than 15%. However, this variance can be greater if there is a need for fuller divisions of four or more competitors. 4. The minimum number of competitors in a division should be three and the maximum number is eight. The same policy applies to the number of teams in a division at a larger invitational. 5. Every event competition division results in the same allocation of points awarded to the teams. For example, if there are seven divisions of the 100 meters, competitors in each of the divisions will score points for their teams based upon their place of finish. 6. Team scoring is based upon the format delineated in the National Federation of State High School Associations Track and Field Rule Book for dual meets. Since all competition divisions score points for a team, the Unified Team Track and Field rules modification is as follows: For all types of Unified Track and Field meets (dual, triangle, or invitational) the following scoring format will be employed: 1 st place scores 5 points, 2 nd place scores 3 points, 3 rd place scores 1 point. 11

13 Points of Emphasis Sportsmanship In the spirit of sportsmanship, teams should come together and shake hands after each competition. Event Registration Teams will be divisioned per the total roster size. Coaches are strongly encouraged to register each student-athlete in the maximum number of events to ensure the maximum number of scoring opportunities. Maximum Effort The fundamental difference between Special Olympics competitions and those of other sports organizations is that athletes of all ability levels are encouraged to participate, and every athlete is recognized for his/her performance. Competitions are structured so that athletes compete with other athletes of similar ability in equitable divisions. Responsibilities of the Athletes Sportsmanship is important in developing a well-rounded athlete. Athletes are expected to follow the Special Olympics Official Sport Rules and the Athlete's Code of Conduct. Athletes are expected to give maximum effort when competing. This is the only way the divisioning process can work as it was intended. Athletes who do not participate with maximum effort in all preliminary trials and/or finals violate the true spirit of competition and may even be disqualified from competition. Responsibilities of the Coach Coaches have an important role in an athlete's life. Therefore, coaches must place the health and safety of athletes above all else. They, too, must follow the Official Sport Rules and the Coaches Code of Conduct. Coaches are also critical in helping competition management teams make divisioning work. Divisioning works best when coaches submit preliminary scores. This helps athletes get into the proper division as well as gain additional competition experience. How Divisioning is Implemented An athlete's ability is the primary factor in divisioning Special Olympics competitions. The ability of an athlete or (relay) team is determined by an entry score from a prior competition or the result of a seeding round or preliminary event at the competition itself. 12

14 Principle of Meaningful Involvement The most important of the 7 Criteria for the Success of a Special Olympics Unified Sports Program is the principle of meaningful involvement. Fundamentally, the principle of meaningful involvement ensures that every player is given an opportunity to contribute to the success of his or her team through their unique skills and qualities. This means that every teammate: (a) demonstrates sufficient sport-specific skills and game understanding; (b) plays a valued role on the team that emphasizes his or her personal talents; and (c) has an opportunity to play without a heightened risk of injury. All team members must be engaged and provide their own individual abilities and strengths. In so doing, athletes and partners may have different perspectives. The athletes on the team may not be accustomed to the experience of having their contributions accepted and respected. In addition, partners may need to be encouraged to play to their own personal bests while being a good teammate to others. Consequently, when Unified Sports teams are created, it is extremely important that both athletes and partners are assessed as to their abilities and game play. While there could be noticeable differences in their skills, the coach will be able to observe their overall performance to determine if they have the requisite skills and understanding to safely participate on this team. The goal is that every teammate should play a meaningful role and can contribute his or her strengths to their Unified Sports team. There should be a quality of social interaction and communication among teammates that allows everyone to participate fully and enjoy a positive experience. Indicators of Meaningful Involvement Teammates compete without causing undue risk of injury to themselves or others. Teammates participate according to the rules of competition. Teammates have the ability and opportunity to contribute to the success of the team. Teammates adjust their skills according to those of other players, resulting in improved performance by team members with lesser ability. Meaningful involvement is not achieved when certain team members Display superior sports skills without involving their teammates. Serve predominantly as on-field coaches rather than teammates or mentors. Control most aspects of the game, especially during the most critical periods. Do not train or practice regularly and only show up on the day of competition. Lower their level of ability dramatically so that they do not hurt others or control the entire game. Note: It is important that all coaches and program leaders understand the Principle of Meaningful Involvement prior to the selection of team members. As you can see, Unified Sports further meets the mission of Special Olympics and embraces the philosophy and principles of Special Olympics Unified Sports. 13

15 Uniform Requirements The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) rules for Track and Field and Cross County shall govern all uniforms and jewelry. NFHS Track and Field and Cross Country Rules ARTICLE 1... The competitor s uniform shall be issued by the school, worn as intended by the manufacturer, and have the following restrictions: a. Each competitor shall wear shoes. 1. Shoes shall be worn on both feet and shall have an upper and recognizable sole and heel. 2. The (shoe) upper must be designed so that it can be fastened securely to the foot. 3. The use of slippers or socks does not meet the requirements of the rule. b. Each competitor shall wear a full length track top or one-piece uniform issued by the school. 1. When numbers are used, each competitor shall wear his/her assigned, unaltered contestant number. 2. The top or one-piece uniform may have school identification and the top may have the competitor s name. 3. The top shall not be knotted or have a knot-like protrusion. 4. A single manufacturer s logo/trademark/reference, no more than 2¼ square inches with no dimension more than 2¼ inches and with state association approval, is permitted on the top or one-piece uniform. 5. The American flag, not exceeding 2x3 inches, and either a commemorative or memorial patch, not to exceed 4 square inches and with state association approval, may be worn on the uniform top. NOTE: Only one American flag and/or commemorative patch may be displayed on the uniform. 6. Bare midriff tops are not allowed. 7. The top must hang below or be tucked into the waistband of the bottom when the competitor is standing upright. 8. Any visible garment(s) worn underneath the uniform top must be unadorned and of a single, solid color. As per NFHS rules, a single, visible manufacturer s logo and/or single school name or insignia no more than 2¼ inches are permitted on the undergarment. Visible items worn under both the top and the bottom do not have to be the same color. 14

16 NOTES: 1) If more than one visible garment is worn under the uniform top, all must be the same color; 2) A visible garment worn under the uniform top displaying contrasting stitching to the single, solid color of the undergarment and functions as the actual seam for the undergarment s construction is legal. c. Each competitor shall wear a track bottom or one-piece uniform issued by the school. 1. The bottom or one-piece uniform may have the school identification. 2. Loose-fitting, boxer-type bottoms or compression-style bottom are permitted for boys and girls. Closed-leg briefs are acceptable for girls. 3. French or high-cut apparel shall not be worn in lieu of the uniform bottom. 4. The waistband of a competitor s bottom shall be worn above the hips. 5. A single manufacturer s logo/trademark/reference, no more than 2¼ square inches with no dimension more than 2¼ inches, is permitted on the bottom or one-piece uniform. 6. The American flag, not exceeding 2x3 inches, and either a commemorative or memorial patch, not to exceed 4 square inches and with state association approval, may be worn on the uniform bottom. NOTE: Only one American flag and/or commemorative patch may be displayed on the uniform. 7. Any visible garment(s) worn underneath the uniform bottom must be unadorned and of a single, solid color. As per NFHS rules, a single, visible manufacturer s logo and/or single school name or insignia no more than 2¼ inches are permitted on the undergarment. Visible items worn under both the top and the bottom do not have to be the same color. NOTES: 1) If more than one visible garment is worn under the uniform bottom, all must be the same color; 2. A visible garment worn under the uniform bottom displaying contrasting stitching to the single, solid color of the undergarment and functions as the actual seam for the undergarment s construction is legal. PENALTY: (Art. 1) For the wearing of an illegal uniform, when a violation is observed and noted by a meet official, the competitor shall be required to make the uniform legal before becoming eligible for further competition, and shall be issued a warning that a subsequent violation shall result in a disqualification from the event. The referee shall be notified of the violation by the observing meet official, and the referee shall then notify or cause to be notified the head coach of the offending school of the competitor s violation and warning. 15

17 ARTICLE Jewelry shall not be worn by competitors. a. Medical alert medals are not considered jewelry. The alert should be visible. When the medal is attached: 1. to a bracelet made of metal or an unyielding material, it shall be taped to the body. 2. to a bracelet made of a pliable material, it is not required to be taped to the body. 3. to a necklace, it shall be taped to the body. b. Religious medals are not considered jewelry and must be worn under the uniform and taped to the body. c. A watch may be worn around the wrist. d. Unadorned devices, such as bobby pins, barrettes and hair clips, no longer than 2 inches, may be worn to control a competitor s hair. PENALTY: For the first violation, the competitor shall be required to remove the jewelry before further competition, and be issued a warning that a subsequent violation shall result in a disqualification from the event. The referee shall be notified of the violation by the observing meet official and he/she shall then notify or cause to be notified the head coach of the offending school of the competitor s violation and the warning. NOTE: The ultimate responsibility to have each competitor compliant with uniform and jewelry rules is with the coach. ***************************** 16

18 Additional Uniform Requirements CEREMONIES WEAR Players must be in their uniform or proper school-issued uniform, such as warm-ups, and must wear proper footwear (no flip-flops or slippers) to accept an award. HEADWEAR 1. No hats, rimless headwear, including bandanas are allowed. Religious and medicalrelated headwear is permissible. 2. Headbands, wristbands, and armbands must be of a solid color. If a solid color, a piece of material may be folded, tied, and used as a headband as long as it is not wider than 2 (approx). Logo-used regulations will be in effect: ALL NEW (i.e. purchased for or subsequent to the school year) Interscholastic Unified Sports must have the Unified Sports pill/lozenge shaped logo appear on the jersey/shirt of the uniform. UNIFORMS 1. All (new i.e. purchased for the school year) Interscholastic Unified Sports must have the Unified Sports pill/lozenge shaped logo appear on the jersey/shirt of the uniform. 2. The Unified Sports logo can be printed/embroidered in red, black or white. 3. The logo needs to be in the pill/lozenge shape, not open see open example below. 17

19 4. Logo Location and Sizing Options The Unified Sports pill/lozenge shaped logo can be positioned on the chest, sleeve, or collar of the jersey/shirt see below. 18

20 Season Timeline Wednesday, March 1 st o Start date Maryland Public Secondary Schools Athletic Association (MPSSAA) start date schools may not begin training for spring Unified Sports prior to this date. Tuesday, March 21 st o MPSSAA first (eligible) play date Spring Sports ***Thursday, April 6 th *** o (SOMD) Applications for Participation & Affirmation of Eligibility due to Special Olympics Maryland. Friday, April 28 th o County/District Championships must be complete. State Invitational Pre-competition Coaches Webinar Tuesday, May 2 Register at State Invitational Tuesday, May 9 -or- 10, 2017 Note teams will conduct the Interscholastic Unified Sports season for a minimum of eight weeks, with teams practicing at least twice a week, and participating in three or more competitions during the season. If teams are unable to meet this expectation, please contact Melissa Kelly, mkelly@somd.org. *** - denotes DUE DATE NOTE: District Representatives will implement adjusted deadlines in order to allow time to review and process forms/documents. 19

21 Rain date May 11 PARTICIPANTS Approximately 700 student-athletes will be competing in this historic event, featuring student-athletes with and without disabilities competing together, representing their high school. SCHOOL SYSTEMS Allegany, Charles, Frederick, Prince George s, & Washington VOLUNTEER Opportunities for individuals or groups are available. HOSTED in PROUD PARTNERSHIP with SCHEDULE 9:00 AM Volunteer Check-In 9:00 AM-10:00 AM Schools Arrive 10:30 AM Opening Ceremony 11:00 AM Competition Begins Lunch is available 4:00 PM* Awards Ceremonies 5:00 PM* Departure * - denotes tentative & based on speed of competition COACHES PRE-COMPETITION WEBINAR Tuesday, May 2, 6:30pm register at

22 Application for Participation - ***NEW FORM*** Each participant and coach must satisfy their respective school system s requirements (e.g. annual medical). Special Olympics Maryland requirements are indicated below. For players/competitors each of the following items must be completed and provided to Special Olympics Maryland (SOMD): - Special Olympics Applications for Participation see right image. It is important that the form is completed in its entirety. Coaches MUST ensure disabilities are noted properly. ALL participants, regardless of age, need a parent/guardian signature. ALL forms are to be scanned and ed, or hand submitted as instructed by your District Representatives or (SOMD) Regional Sports Director. 21

23 STUDENT-ATHLETE AFFIRMATION OF ELIGIBILITY UNIFIED SPORTS Use one of these forms for each sport at your school. Fill in the names of the student-athletes for whom an Application for Participation has been completed, including parental signature, retained, and submitted (directly or indirectly) to Special Olympics Maryland. Then sign this form and submit as instructed to your respective District Representative or SOMD Regional Sports Director

24 Special Olympics Maryland (non-student-athlete) Class-A Clearances Every non-student-athlete must complete the Special Olympics Class-A volunteer requirements. Becoming a Certified Class-A Volunteer *** Background Checks and Volunteer Clearances, including Protective Behaviors, are valid for 3 years. *** Visit and click the button that reads Register to become a certified SOMD Volunteer 1. Create your VSys-Log-In and Volunteer Application Enter the required information to create a VSys Account. Write down your log-in information as those credentials will be used to access your account in the future. Each account must have a unique address. If you share an address with a friend or family member and you are both signing up for a VSys Account, we recommend using a free provider to set up additional accounts as needed. Once your log-in is created, you may log in and out to complete Steps 2-5 as needed with your schedule. Your progress will be saved after each step, so you won t need to start over each time. If you do choose to log out and come back later to complete missing steps, visit: and click the button that reads Search and Sign Up for Volunteer Opportunities. You ll see that your progress is saved and you can pick up where you left off. 2. Complete Volunteer Information Enter the required Information including an emergency contact and 1 non-family reference. 3. Volunteer Waiver of Liability and Housing/Concussion Policy Read all statements and provide an electronic signature by typing your name and the date. We recognize that you may not be participating in overnight programs with Special Olympics Maryland. Your electronic signature on the housing policy simply verifies that we have provided you with the policy as required by Special Olympics International. 4. Watch the General Orientation Video and Complete the Short Quiz 5. Watch the Protective Behaviors^ Video and Complete the Short Quiz available at 6. Background Check Once you have completed Steps 1-5, an from The Advocates at Verified Volunteers will be sent to the that you provided for the log-in information. This will invite you to complete a background check for Special Olympics Maryland. Please provide all of the required information so that Verified Volunteers can process your background check. A Social Security Number is not required for background check. Special Olympics Maryland will pay the $5.00 fee for your background check. Volunteers have the option to pay for all or a portion of that, but that is not expected. Background Checks and Volunteer Clearances, including Protective Behaviors, are valid for 3 years. Our VSys system will send automated reminder s when volunteer credentials are close to expiration. If you have questions regarding this process, please contact your (SOMD) Regional Sports Director or Registration Coordinator, Rachel Maddock-Cosden, rmaddock@somd.org or , ext ^ - denotes new requirement for ALL coaches (established ) 23

25 Volunteer Application and Unified Sports Partner Release In accordance with the Special Olympics Volunteer Screening Policy and with the interest of the health and safety of all participants in mind, we ask your cooperation by fully completing the requested information. ALL information is required and confidential. Please Print All Information Legibly Complete LAST Name Complete FIRST Name, NO nick name Complete MIDDLE Name, NO Middle Initial Gender Female Male ** Date of Birth: / / / / Month Day Year Social Security Number for Applicants 18 & Older **A social security number is OPTIONAL to perform a background check. Criminal background checks are required of all adult Special Olympics Maryland athletes, volunteers and employees. Home Street Address City State Zip Code address Primary Phone: Please check box - Home Cell Employer/School: Occupation/Position: Employer/School Address: City: State: Zip Code: Emergency Contact Information: Emergency Contact Name: Relationship to you Primary Phone Number: REV 5/2016 ADULT volunteers/partners, please list (1) adult, non-family reference: please print all information Individuals 17 years old or younger must complete the separate Student/Minor Reference Form Reference: *Complete Name: Home Address: City: State: Zip: *Primary Phone Number: ( ) FOR LICENSED MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS ONLY. Please List your Medical Certification (s): Please read each statement before signing: I do hereby understand and confirm that: I have completed the General Orientation/Protective Behaviors session for volunteers and have been educated on the Special Olympics Maryland Volunteer Code of Conduct and SOMD s general procedures for protecting athletes from abuse. I agree to abide by these guidelines for the benefit and safety of all participants in the Special Olympics Program; I give my permission to Special Olympics Maryland to verify the information I have given and to conduct a criminal background screening and/or driving record screening; I authorize others to make available to any duly authorized representative of Special Olympics Maryland any information relevant to my volunteer application or status, and I waive any right I may have with regard to the release of this information to Special Olympics Maryland; I agree to indemnify and hold harmless Special Olympics Maryland, Special Olympics Inc., and any person to whom this request is presented and their agents and employees, from and against all claims, damages, losses and expenses, including reasonable attorneys fees arising out of this request; in the course of volunteering for Special Olympics Maryland, I may be dealing with confidential information, and I agree to keep that information in the strictest confidence; the relationship between Special Olympics Maryland and volunteers is an at will arrangement, and it may be terminated at any time without cause by either the volunteer or Special Olympics Maryland; I grant Special Olympics Maryland permission to use my likeness, voice and words in television, radio, film or in any form to promote activities of Special Olympics Maryland; I am responsible for informing Special Olympics Maryland of ALL changes regarding information contained in this application, and that I may be asked to provide updated information at any time. In consideration of participating in Special Olympics Maryland activities, including Unified Sports, I represent that I understand the nature of the event and that I (and/or my minor child) am (are/is) qualified, in good health and in proper physical condition to participate in Unified Sports events. I fully understand the event may involve

26 risks of serious bodily injury which may be caused by my own actions or inactions, by the actions of others participating in the event, or by conditions in which the event takes place. I fully accept and assume all such risks and all responsibility for losses, costs, and/or damages I (and/or my minor child) may incur as a result of my (and/or my minor child s) participation. I acknowledge that at any time that if I (we) feel that the event conditions are unsafe; I (and/or my minor child) will discontinue participation immediately. If during participation in Special Olympics Maryland activities I should need emergency medical treatment and I (and/or my minor child) am (are/is) not able to give consent for or make my own arrangements for that treatment because of my injuries, I authorize Special Olympics Maryland to take whatever measures are necessary to protect my health and well-being including, if necessary, hospitalization. I (and/or my minor child) release, indemnify, covenant to sue and hold harmless Special Olympics Maryland, Special Olympics Inc., its administrators, directors, agents, officers, volunteers, employees and other Unified Sports participants and sponsors, advertisers, and if applicable, any owners and lessors of premises on which the activity takes place from all liability, any losses, claims (other than that of the medical accident benefit) demands, costs, or damages that I (or my minor child) may incur as a result of participation in Special Olympics Maryland activities, including Unified Sports events, and further agree that if, despite this Release and Waiver of Liability, Assumption of Risk and Indemnity Agreement I or anyone on my behalf, makes a claim against any of the Releasees, I will indemnify, save and hold harmless each of the Releasees from any litigation expenses, attorney fees, loss, liability, damage or cost which may incur as a result of such claim. Please answer the following questions: 1. Do you use illegal drugs? YES NO 2. Have you ever been convicted of, or granted probation before judgment for: a) A criminal offense OR YES NO b) Driving while impaired, intoxicated, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs? YES NO 3. Have you ever been charged (as an adult or juvenile) with neglect, abuse or assault? YES NO 4. Has your driver s license ever been suspended or revoked in any state or other jurisdiction? YES NO 5. Within the past five (5) years, have you been at fault for two (2) or more traffic accidents, or had your automobile insurance cancelled for safety reasons? YES NO SOMD Housing Policy Information The health and safety of all Special Olympics Maryland participants is of paramount importance to Special Olympics Maryland. Participants should feel that every Special Olympics Maryland event is a safe and positive experience and should not be fearful of other participants, coaches or volunteers. Athletes will be matched for housing based on size, level of maturity, ability and age. Each member of the delegation shall be assigned his/her own bed. Athletes and volunteers may not share a room with an athlete or volunteer of the opposite sex *. The chaperone/athlete ratio of at least one properly registered chaperone to every four athletes must be maintained during overnight events. All chaperones must be screened in accordance with the Special Olympics Volunteer Screening Policy.*See complete Special Olympics Maryland Housing Policy for allowed exceptions. The complete Special Olympics Maryland Housing Policy can be found at Concussion Information A concussion is a brain injury and all brain injuries are serious. They are caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or by a blow to another part of the body with the force transmitted to the head. They can range from mild to severe and can disrupt the way the brain normally works. Even though most concussions are mild, all concussions are potentially serious and may result in complications including prolonged brain damage and death if not recognized and managed properly. In other words, even a ding or a bump on the head can be serious. You can t see a concussion and most sports concussions occur without loss of consciousness. Signs and symptoms of concussion may show up right after the injury or can take hours or days to fully appear. If you/your athlete report any symptoms of concussion, or if you notice the symptoms or signs of concussion yourself, seek medical attention right away. Participants with the signs and symptoms of concussion should be removed from play immediately. Continuing to play with the signs and symptoms of a concussion leaves the participant especially vulnerable to greater injury. There is an increased risk of significant damage from a concussion for a period of time after that concussion occurs, particularly if the participant suffers another concussion before completely recovering from the first one. This can lead to prolonged recovery, or even to severe brain swelling (second impact syndrome) with devastating and even fatal consequences. It is well known that athletes will often under report symptoms of injuries, and concussions are no different. As a result, education of administrators, coaches, parents and athletes is the key for athlete safety. Any participant even suspected of suffering a concussion should be removed from the game or practice immediately. No participant may return to activity after an apparent head injury or concussion, regardless of how mild it seems or how quickly symptoms clear, without medical clearance. Close observation of the participant should continue for several hours. Special Olympics Maryland, Inc. requires the consistent and uniform implementation of well-established return to play concussion guidelines that have been recommended for several years including an participant who is suspected of sustaining a concussion or head injury in a practice or game shall be removed from competition at that time and may not return to play until the participant is evaluated by a licensed heath care provider trained in the evaluation and management of concussion and has received written clearance to return to play from that health care provider. For current and up-to-date information on concussions you can go to: SIGN SIGN SIGN I affirm that I have read and understand this Volunteer Application and that the information given is true and complete. I have read the Release and Waiver of Liability, Assumption of Risk, and Indemnity Agreement and fully understand and agree to it. I also understand that in the event false information is provided, I may be terminated from my volunteer position. Applicant Signature: Date: IF APPLICANT IS A SPECIAL OLYMPICS MARYLAND ATHLETE: I hereby certify that I have reviewed this information with the applicant whose signature appears above. I am satisfied based on that review that the applicant understands this release and has agreed to the provisions included. Name (PLEASE PRINT) Relationship to Applicant IF APPLICANT IS A MINOR: Parent/Guardian Name: Relationship to Applicant: Parent Guardian Other Signature of Parent/Guardian: Primary Phone #: Date: Signature of Special Olympics Maryland Staff or Authorized Representative Photo ID Provided: Yes NO REV 5/2016

27 Contact Information Unified Sports District Representatives ANNE ARUNDEL Brian Layman BALTIMORE CITY LaDonna Schemm CAROLINE, KENT, QUEEN ANNE S, TALBOT Laura Heinz CECIL Sue Snyder CHARLES Michelle Ignaszewski (Bocce, Track & Field) Seth Rak (Tennis, Track & Field) FREDERICK Michelle Hill PRINCE GEORGE S Jessica Brandt jessica.brandt@pgcps.org WASHINGTON Barb Cosner CosneBar@wcps.k12.md.us WICOMICO Jen Hill jhill@wcboe.org ***SOMD Regional Sports Director will serve in the absence of a District Representative.*** Unified Track & Field Chair, Alexandra Rak, alirak.somd@gmail.com Special Olympics Maryland Staff VACANT Regional Sports Director - Melissa Anger Regional Sports Director - Phone: Ron Freeman Regional Sports Director - Phone: VACANT Regional Sports Director - ANNE ARUNDEL, CAROLINE, CECIL, DORCHESTER, KENT, QUEEN ANNE S, SOMERSET, TALBOT, WICOMICO, & WORCESTER ALLEGANY, CARROLL, FREDERICK, GARRETT, & MONTGOMERY manger@somd.org (cell); ext 122 (office) BALTIMORE CITY & BALTIMORE COUNTY rfreeman@somd.org (cell); ext 103 (office) CALVERT, CHARLES, PRINCE GEORGE S, & ST. MARY S Melissa Kelly, Senior Sports Director for School Programs, mkelly@somd.org 26

28 District County 1 Allegany 1 Garrett 2 Washington 3 Frederick 4* Baltimore City 5* Montgomery 6 Prince George s 7* Anne Arundel 8 Calvert*, Charles, St. Mary s* 9* Cecil 10* Caroline, Kent, Queen Anne s, Talbot 11* Dorchester, Somerset, Wicomico, Worcester * - denotes not participating in Unified Track & Field District Map 27

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31 Did you know that Amazon has a program that supports nonprofit organizations? The program is called Amazon Smile. Special Olympics Maryland will receive a donation from Amazon of ½% of the cost of your purchases. Amazon funds this donation, there is no cost to you. Log on at If you already have an Amazon account it will work at Amazon Smile. When you log in you will be asked what organization you want to support. Make sure you enter "Special Olympics Maryland" since other State Chapters are also signed up for this program. All of the products and discounts offered on Amazon.com are also offered on Amazon Smile. Please share this message with your family, friends and coworkers. ******************************************** SOCIAL MEDIA

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