Make Every Race Count Campaign
Special Olympics and the Michael Phelps Foundation have launched Make Every Race Count. Make Every Race Count is a campaign to support and supply coaches with practical tools and resources that can be integrated into weekly training sessions to significantly decrease the number of DQs seen across the movement. A new home for swim coaches!
Make Every Race Count campaign now available!
Read the announcement article to explore the new resources and tools available to Special Olympics swimming coaches.
Make Every Race Count Campaign Resource Centre
Coach Resources
Disqualification Data
Sport Impact Standards & Head Coaching Standards
The Coach Resource Centre provides coaching cards and key references to support Special Olympics swimming training and competition preparation. Access stroke coaching cards for butterfly, breaststroke, freestyle, backstroke, and the 4 B’s, plus disqualification specific cards for common issues. Find links to MPF Level 1, coaching guides, World Aquatics rules, and turns and starts resources.
The Disqualification Hub brings together some key data, trends, and educational insights to strengthen rule understanding and reduce disqualifications in Special Olympics swimming. Explore Berlin 2023 World Games findings, the most common DQs, regional breakdowns, and guidance on recognizing DQs in practice and supporting athletes with confidence when a disqualification occurs.
The Sport Impact Standards and New Head Coach Standards section supports coaches in understanding the requirements and expectations for Special Olympics swimming at major events. Access key documents, guidance, and links that explain these standards and how they are applied. Use this information to prepare athletes effectively and ensure teams are ready for World Games competition.
Make Every Race Count Video Resources
Make Every Race Count Campaign
Special Olympics and the Michael Phelps Foundation have launched Make Every Race Count. Make Every Race Count is a campaign to support and supply coaches with practical tools and resources that can be integrated into weekly training sessions to significantly decrease the number of DQs seen across the movement. A new home for swim coaches!
On Now
On Now
New International Swimming Head Coach Standards
All Swimming Head Coaches will be required to meet general and swimming-specific coaching standards in order to be registered as a Head Coach. The standards below (or equivalent) are now in place.
National Level Coach/Teacher Certification (certified to coach/teach independently)
National Level Coach/Teacher Certification (certified to coach/teach independently)
3 years experience working as a Special Olympics swimming Coach
Experience of attending at least 2 Special Olympics Swimming competitions as a coach
National Swimming Federationor National Swim Teachers Association coach or teacher certification or equivalent
