SPECIAL OLYMPICS OREGON – SOUTHCOAST

Registration Night for Winter 2008

Registration is different this season! This season will host a registration night for all those interested in participating in Special Olympics this season. You will need to attend this registration night to sign up.

Why the change? – Many reasons! We want to make sure all who want to participate are able to do so. We want to ensure we are completely prepared to provide quality training for all and to allow athletes to have a valid medical before the season starts (a Special Olympics requirement). We want to give everyone an opportunity to meet the new Local Program Management Team and coaches and to give NEW athletes achance to learn about Special Olympics.

Don’t miss out! Mark your calendar and make arrangements to attend Registration Night. If you miss out, you must call 541-888-3400 before Registration Night to make alternative arrangements for registration.

What to expect – When you come in, you’ll sign up, meet your coaches, and the new Local Program Management team. You can check to see if your medical is valid or if you need a new one. New athletes will be able to receive the medical form so they can have it completed prior to the first practice. (More info on medicals on the reverse side of this page.)

WINTER SPORTS PRACTICE INFORMATION

Basketball Team Practice

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Basketball Individual Skills Practice

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IMPORTANT – All Athletes and Unified Partners must register to participate!

Questions? See Frequently Asked Questions on reverse side.

Still have questions? Call: 541-888-3400

Frequently Asked Questions

About Becoming an Athlete

Why should I participate in Special Olympics? Participating in a Special Olympics year-round sports program allows athletes to get physically fit, learn new skills, and participate in a wide variety of sports. It’s also a great way to meet new friends and help you achieve new heights.

Who is eligible to participate in Special Olympics? Anyone who has been identified as having an intellectual (or cognitive) disability by a medical professional is eligible to be involved in Special Olympics. Athletes must be at least 8 years old to compete. There is no upper age limit. All athletes must have a medical that is valid through March 9, 2009 in order to begin practice for the Winter season.

Are there any fees to participate? There is no cost to join Special Olympics, nor is there a cost to train or compete. Special Olympics raises funds through sponsorships, private donations and special events.

What sports are offered?

Winter Season(December – March): Basketball

Spring/Summer Season (April – July): Athletics (Track & Field) and Softball

Fall Season (August – November): Aquatics and Bowling

How often do I practice? Depending upon your sport, you’ll practice one or 2 times per week for at least 8 weeks.

What are the training requirements?

  1. Athletes are expected to attend practices regularly and must complete a minimum of 10 hours of practice over at least 8 weeks of training in order to be eligible to compete.
  1. Athletes are required to sign and adhere to the SOOR Athlete Code of Conduct
  1. Athletes must participate in a Regional event to be eligible for competitive play at State Games.
  1. Transportation to and from practice sessions is the responsibility of the athlete and his/her family or care provider.

How do I join?

  1. Attend the Registration Night.
  1. You will be providedwith an Application for Participation (medical).
  1. Complete the medical form in full, and have your physician sign the medical release portion. Return your form to the address shown NO LATER THAN January 8, 2008. Once your form has been completed, the medical release is good for 3 years.
  1. Once your form is submitted, you may begin attending practices!

Why is a medical release required? The medical release is similar to those required for participation in any other sports program. They provide us with necessary information including a health history and emergency contact information. The medical release is also required, because Special Olympics provides secondary insurance coverage. Important Note: Athletes attending practice without a valid medical will not be able to participate.