Welcome to the Special Olympics Illinois Class A Registration

The Class A Registration process is divided into two parts: Protective Behavior Training and Concussion Training. Class A Registration was created as a way to protect athletes, volunteers, and the integrity of Special Olympics Illinois. This application process is required for all volunteers who have close contact with athletes or who handle the financial assets of Special Olympics Illinois. This includes Coaches, Chaperones, Unified Partners, Staff, Committee, and Board Members.

If you are just interested in volunteering with Special Olympics Illinois at an event you do not need to fill out this application. Instead, please visit our Volunteer Events Page, pick an event from the list and select "Click Here to Register" at the bottom of the event page.

If you continue with this application you will be subject to a background check and will be held to Special Olympics Illinois Volunteer Guidelines. When you are ready to begin the online application process please select "Next" below to start.

Spanish version - available for download below only: (click next below to fill out English form online)

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Welcome to the Special Olympics Illinois Class A Registration and on-line Protective Behaviors and Concussion training process. *Revisit this step before submitting!*

The goal of the Protective Behaviors presentation is prevention of sexual abuse of Special Olympics athletes. It also addresses physical and emotional abuse. The goal of the Concussion Awareness training is to bring awareness of the risks of sports, how to recognize a head injury, and the safety of Special Olympics athletes.

Please note that both new applications and renewals require you to take BOTH Protective Behaviors and Concussion training.

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Which age group do YOU belong to?*
This refers to YOUR age bracket, not the ages of the athletes you will be assisting. If you are turning 18 in the next 60 days, please select 18 or older.
What is your affiliation to Special Olympics Illinois or your purpose for completing this application? This includes affiliation through a school district, park district, group home, etc. It does not include familial relationships or general volunteerism.*
- Coach
- Chaperone
- Unified Partner
- Young Athletes Coach
- No Affiliation
- Other
STOP if you are under the age of 13 and are not a Unified Partner you do not need to fill out a Class A form or take the Protective Behavior or Concussion test.
Please describe your affiliation:*
STOP
Please select a valid affiliation. This application is only necessary for volunteers who work closely with Special Olympics athletes or finances. If you are unsure if you need to complete this application please contact your local Area Director

If you are looking to volunteer the day of an event there is a separate registration process. To sign up for an event go to our Volunteer Events page, pick an event from the list and select "Click Here to Register" at the bottom of the event page.
Personal Information
Full Legal Name*
First Last
Address*
Street Address Address Line 2 City State ZIP Code
Who is your Emergency Contact?*
*Please do not put yourself as an emergency contact*
Emergency Contact Phone*
Health/Accident Company*
put none if uninsured
Policy #*
put none if uninsured
Gender*
- Male
- Female
Date of Birth*
Date Format: MM slash DD slash YYYY
Phone*
Email*
**IMPORTANT** Please use a VALID email address unique to yourself, not an agency email, your background check link will be sent to this email. We will not be able to finish processing your application without this.
Enter Email Confirm Email
*
- I verify that the above email address is unique to myself and will be used for communication regarding my background check and application status. I will also add TheAdvocates@SterlingVolunteers.com to my email safe list.
Select Your Region*
Click here if you need help finding your region.
Agency, Team, School or Park District Name*
Do you use illegal drugs?*
- Yes
- No
You can NOT become a coach with Special Olympics Illinois if you use illegal drugs. Please make sure you chose the correct selection. If you do use illegal drugs stop here as your application is finished.
Have you ever been convicted of any criminal offense?*
- Yes
- No
Have you ever been charged with neglect, abuse or assault?*
- Yes
- No
Has your drivers license been suspended or revoked in any state, for moving violations within the last seven years?*
- Yes
- No
This does NOT prevent you from volunteering. If yes, then I agree NOT to serve as a volunteer driver for Special Olympics Illinois. This includes driving for Special Olympics to, from and during all sanctioned events.
Drivers License # (optional)
if you do not have/enter a drivers license then a driving restriction will be placed on your record.
Drivers License State
Please list two NON-FAMILY MEMBER REFERENCES and their contact information. By providing these references I am authorizing Special Olympics Illinois to contact them in reference to my volunteer application.
Reference 1*
Name Relationship Phone Number
Reference 2*
Name Relationship Phone Number
Unified Partner Waiver*
Please Read before agreeing:

In consideration of participating in Special Olympics 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 involves 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 my participation in Special Olympics activities I should need emergency medical treatment and I (and/or my minor child) am (are/is) not able to give my consent for or make my own arrangements for that treatment because of my injuries, I authorize Special Olympics 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 not to sue, and hold harmless Special Olympics, 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 (and/or my minor child) may incur as a result of participation in 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 Releases, I will indemnify, save, and hold harmless each of the Releases from any litigation expenses, attorney fees, loss, liability, damage or cost which may incur as a result of such claim.

I have read this 'Release and Waiver of Liability, Assumption of Risk, and Indemnity Agreement' and fully understand it.
- By checking this box I agree to the above.
Class A Waiver 18 and Older*
Please Read before agreeing:
1. I affirm under penalty of perjury, that all answers are truthful and understand that Special Olympics Illinois (SOILL) may refuse to allow me to volunteer if I provided incorrect information or withheld information;
2. I give permission for SOILL to obtain information relating to my criminal history records including arrest and conviction data, plea bargains and deferred adjudications;
3. I understand and acknowledge that as long as I remain a volunteer with SOILL, the criminal history checks will be repeated every four years;
4. The relationship between SOILL and volunteers is an "at will" arrangement and it may be terminated at any time, without reason or cause by either party;
5. I grant SOILL and Special Olympics, Inc. permission to use my likeness, voice and words in or on television, radio, film, websites or in any form, format or media to promote Special Olympics, its mission and to raise funds for Special Olympics;
6. I have read, understand and agree with the terms of the SOILL Coaches/Volunteers Conduct Policy and the organizational Policy and Procedures and Risk Management.
7. I waive, release and discharge SOILL, its officers, directors, employees, volunteers, agents and representatives from any liability for all damages of whatever kind or nature that may result in connection with SOILL conducting criminal history checks on me;
8. I will notify SOILL of all changes to the information provided on this original form.
- By checking this box I agree to the above.
Class A Waiver Under 18*
Please Read before agreeing:
1. I affirm under penalty of perjury, that all answers are truthful and understand that Special Olympics Illinois (SOILL) may refuse to allow me to volunteer if I provided incorrect information or withheld information;
2. The relationship between SOILL and volunteers is an "at will" arrangement and it may be terminated at any time, without reason or cause by either party;
3. I grant SOILL and Special Olympics, Inc. permission to use my likeness, voice and words in or on television, radio, film, websites or in any form, format or media to promote Special Olympics, its mission and to raise funds for Special Olympics;
4. I have read, understand and agree with the terms of the SOILL Coaches/Volunteers Conduct Policy and the organizational Policy Policy and Procedures.
5. I acknowledge that upon reaching the age of 18 I will be required to complete a new Class A Volunteer Form and complete a national background check to remain active as a Class A volunteer;
6. I will notify SOILL of all changes to the information provided on this original form.
- By checking this box I agree to the above.

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You are required to take the Protective Behaviors and Concussion training in order to be certified as a Class A volunteer with Special Olympics Illinois. Please click on the next button below to continue with the training.
STOP, you are not required to take Protective Behaviors and Concussion training until you are 16 years of age. Your Class A will expire when you turn 16 if you have not taken this training though, therefore, if you will be turning 16 soon it is advisable to take the training now.
Do you wish to take the PB and Concussion training tests anyway.*
- Yes
- No

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Actions Special Olympics has Taken to Protect Athletes:
- This protective behavior training
- Volunteer screening requirements in the US
- This protective behavior training
- Codes of conduct for athletes and coaches
- Policy prohibiting volunteers or staff in authority positions from dating athletes
Special Olympics US Volunteer Screening Policy
- The foremost goal of the volunteer screening policy is to protect the safety and well-being of athletes
- Special Olympics screens prospective Class A volunteers
- Class A volunteers are re-screened every four years
- If screening reveals criminal history involving certain offenses, the volunteer is prohibited from participation

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Actions Special Olympics has Taken to Protect Athletes:

Who is a Class A Volunteer?

Definition:
- Volunteers who have regular, close, physical contact with athletes
- Volunteers in a position of authority or supervision with athletes
- Volunteers in a position of trust of athletes
- Volunteers who handle substantial amounts of cash or other assets of the Program
Examples:
- Coaches, Unified Partners, chaperones, overnight hosts, ALPs mentors, drivers of athletes
- May also include Fundraising Event Committee members, board members, and Games Management team members

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Actions Special Olympics has Taken to Protect Athletes:

Benefits and Limitations of the Volunteer Screening Policy
- Volunteer screening is a tool Special Olympics uses to help protect athletes, but it is not fool-proof
- Many predators do not have criminal records
- Your job as a volunteer is to be vigilant and report any behavior or activity that does not appear appropriate based on

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Actions Special Olympics has Taken to Protect Athletes:

Codes of Conduct

Codes of Conduct are in effect and enforced for athletes, coaches and volunteers.
- Special Olympics Illinois has a code of conduct for athletes and coaches. The codes below are the standards set by Special Olympics Illinois for athletes, coaches and volunteers.
- Special Olympics Illinois has guidelines for sanctions related to breach of these codes of conduct
- Included in the codes of conduct are references to the prohibition of volunteers or staff in authority positions dating athletes

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Prevention:

Recognizing Sexual Predators

A sexual predator could be anyone. There is no “look” or behavior pattern that sets them apart. Sexual Predators:
- Target vulnerable populations (such as children and individuals with intellectual disabilities)
- Come from all backgrounds
- Can be male or female
- Are generally very likeable and have warm personalities
- May have limited relationships with other adults
- Remind athletes and families that not everyone who comes to a Special Olympics event is a volunteer who has been screened and is assumed to be “safe”

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Prevention:

Sexual Abuse
- For athletes requiring assistance with changing, toileting or showering, it is a best practice if two volunteers are present.
- Private conversations with athletes should be within sight of others who are aware of the conversation
- Hugs should respect both athlete and volunteer limits and never be secretive
- Touching should avoid areas a traditional swimsuit would cover
- Be aware of unusual or inappropriate gifts, trips, affection or attention from a volunteer
- Be aware of relationships between volunteers and athletes that become private or secretive
- Be clear and direct about pointing out inappropriate behavior

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Prevention:

Inappropriate Behavior

Inappropriate gifts, trips, outings, or other gestures of affection from a volunteer include:
- Invitations for sleepovers at a volunteer's house
- Invitations to parties at a volunteer's house where parents or care providers are not included
- Excessive displays of interest in a particular athlete or group of athletes (such as all male athletes or only athletes under the age of 13)

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Prevention:

Tips for Travel
- Be sure to separate sleeping rooms by gender
- Try to assign roommates based on similar age, maturity and size
- Establish a plan for checking on each room/athlete
- Clearly explain rules and behavior expectations of both chaperones and athletes before each trip

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Prevention:

Emotional Abuse
- Profanity is never allowed
- Treat athletes with respect and provide encouragement
- Do not allow demeaning nicknames even among teammates
- Discipline should be part of a meaningful behavior modification strategy and never acted on in anger

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Prevention:

Physical Abuse
- Corporal punishment is never allowed no matter who says it is OK
- Withholding food or water is maltreatment and strictly prohibited
- Only give prescribed medications in accordance with state regulations (consult your Special Olympics Program office for those regulations)
- Be aware of athlete sensitivity to temperature, sound and touch

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How to Recognize Abuse

Changes in behavior may offer the only visible clue that an athlete is the victim of abuse. Abuse causes stress and victims often exhibit stress related behavior such as:
- Depression
- Withdrawal (including loss of interest in participation in Special Olympics)
- Thoughts of or attempts at suicide
- Aggression
- Immature acts
- Sleep disturbances
Uncharacteristic changes in behavior that last for more than a few days indicate a possible need for intervention, but are not a certain indicator of abuse as there are other causes of stress. The absence of behavioral indicators does not indicate a lack of abuse

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How to Recognize Abuse
- Statements by the athlete concerning inappropriate touching or physical harm
- Physical indicators of abuse such as:
- Some athletes are prone to injuries as a consequence of athletic competition. The location of the injury may indicate whether the injury was due to abuse or competition. Injuries that happen due to athletic competition are most likely to be on the shins, knees, elbows, etc. They are less likely to be on the abdomen, across the back, on the backs of the legs, or on facial cheeks
- Possible signs of neglect include

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Reporting Suspicious Activity
- Suspicious activity should be reported to Special Olympics staff
- Reports will be reviewed and reported as appropriate
- Suspensions may be utilized during investigations
- Special Olympics reserves the right to expel athletes or volunteers as a result of suspected or confirmed physical, sexual or emotional abuse of a Special Olympics athlete
Be Ready To Say:
- What makes you think this activity is suspicious
- When you witnessed the activity - or first suspected it
Who To Tell:
- If the activity is during Special Olympics functions, tell local Special Olympics leadership (preferably staff)
- If you suspect that an athlete is in immediate danger, notify the police, and then Special Olympics staff
- If you are a mandatory reporter under your state’s laws, report as required by statute in addition to the report you file with Special Olympics
- Reporting is NOT the same as accusing. It just alerts professionals to investigate

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Am I A Mandatory Reporter Under My State’s Laws?
- Nearly all states have laws that require some individuals to report suspected abuse (such as teachers, healthcare providers, etc.)
- In some states, everyone is a mandatory reporter
- Utilize the Child Welfare Information Gateway website below to familiarize yourself with your state’s reporting requirements. On the site, choose the state that you wish to check and under the "Child Abuse and Neglect" heading, check “Mandatory Reporters of Child Abuse & Neglect” and then click “Go”) Child Welfare Information Gateway website

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Please click next below to complete your Protective Behaviors training and move on to the required Concussion Training.

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Welcome to the Special Olympics Illinois Concussion on-line training

Understanding Concussion

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury- or TBI – caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or by a hit to the body that causes your head and brain to move rapidly back and forth.

This sudden movement can cause the brain to bounce around or twist in the skull, stretching and damaging the brain cells and creating chemical changes in the brain. These chemical changes make the brain more vulnerable to further injury. During this window of vulnerability the brain is more sensitive to any increased stress or injury, until it fully recovers.

Unlike other physical injuries, you cannot see a concussion on an x-ray. It is not a “bruise on the brain” but rather a disruption of how the brain works. That is why brain CAT scans and MRIs are normal with most concussions.

A concussion can occur from any type of contact such as colliding with a player, a goalpost, the ground, or another obstacle. Concussion can also occur outside of sports, ranging from bumping your head on a door to being in a car crash. Even what may seem like a mild bump to the head can actually be serious. Most concussions occur without loss of consciousness.

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Potential Consequences of a Concussion

Concussions affect people differently. While most athletes with a concussion recover quickly and fully, some will have symptoms that last for days, or even weeks. A more serious concussion can last for months or longer.

Not giving the brain enough recovery time after a concussion can be dangerous. A repeat concussion that occurs before the brain recovers from the first, usually within a short time period (hours, days, weeks) can slow recovery or increase the changes for long-term problems. In rare cases repeat concussion can result in brain swelling or permanent brain damage. It can even be fatal. It is incredibly important for you to pull an athlete from play if you suspect he or she has a concussion.

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What to Watch for

Recognizing a concussion requires watching for different types of signs or symptoms. Remember there are two key things to watch for amongst your athletes:
- A forceful bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body that result in rapid movement of the head.
- Any concussion signs or symptoms, such as a change in the athlete’s behavior, thinking, or physical functioning.
Athletes who exhibit or report one or more of the signs and symptoms listed below or just “don’t feel right” after a bump, blow or jolt to the head or body, may have a concussion.

Signs observed by coaching staff:
- Appears dazed or stunned
- Is confused about assignment or position
- Forgets an instruction
- Is unsure of game, score or opponent
- Moves clumsily
- Answers question slowly
- Loses consciousness (even briefly)
- Shows mood, behavior or personality changes
- Can't recall events prior to hit or fall
- Can't recall events after hit or fall
Symptoms reported by athletes:
- Headache or “pressure” in head
- Nausea or vomiting
- Balance problems or dizziness
- Double or blurry vision
- Sensitivity to light and/or noise
- Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy
- Concentration or memory problems
- Confusion
- Just not “feeling right” or “feeling down”

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What to Watch for

Signs and symptoms generally show up soon after the injury. The full effect of the injury may not be noticeable at first and some symptoms may not show up for hours or days. If you suspect a concussion, assess the athlete. Then assess the athlete again. Ensure the athlete is supervised for at least one or two hours after. Talk with the athlete’s parent/guardian/caregiver about watching for symptoms at home.

If the signs or symptoms get worse, you need to consider it a medical emergency. In rare cases, a dangerous blood clot may form on the brain in an athlete with a concussion and squeeze the brain against the skull.

Call 911 or take the athlete to the emergency room right away if he or she exhibits one or more of the following danger signs:
- One pupil larger than the other
- Drowsiness or inability to wake up
- A headache that gets worse and does not go away
- Weakness, numbness, or decreased coordination
- Repeated vomiting or nausea
- Slurred speech
- Convulsions or seizures
- Inability to recognize people or places
- Increasing confusion, restlessness or agitation
- Unusual behavior
- Loss of consciousness (even a brief loss of consciousness should be taken seriously)

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Take Time Out

Resting after a concussion is critical because it helps the brain recover. Ignoring symptoms and proceeding as normal often makes symptoms worse and recovery to take longer. Even activities that involve learning and concentration can cause concussion symptoms to reappear or get worse.

It’s up to a healthcare professional to determine if an injured athlete’s concussion symptoms have been reduced significantly, and when he or she should slowly and gradually return to daily activities.

The athlete might feel frustrated, sad, or angry about having to sit out. Talk to them about it. Be honest about the risks of getting put back into play too soon. Offer your support and encouragement and remind them that as the days go by they’ll feel better.

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Progressive Return to Activity Program

An athlete should return to sports practices under the supervision of an appropriate health care professional. There are five steps to follow to help safely return an athlete to play. These steps should not be completed in one day, but instead over days, weeks, or months.
1. Light aerobic exercise to increase the athlete’s heart rate. (5 to 10 minutes on an exercise bike, walking, or light jogging). There should be no weight lifting, jumping or hard running.
2. Add activities that increase an athlete’s heart rate and incorporate limited body or head movement. (Moderate jogging, brief running, moderate-intensity biking or weightlifting [modified from typical routine]).
3. Bump up to heavy, non-contact physical activity. (Sprinting/running, high-intensity biking, regular weight training, non-contact sport-specific drills).
4. Reintegrate the athlete in practice sessions, even full contact in controlled practice.
5. Put athlete back into play.
During each step, monitor the athlete for returning symptoms, including fuzzy thinking and concentration. Report any symptoms to the athlete’s doctor. If an athlete’s symptoms come back, or they exhibit new symptoms with increased activity, stop these activities and take it as a sign that the athlete is pushing him/herself too hard. After additional rest, and an ok from their doctor, the athlete may start over again at Step 1. The athlete should only graduate to the next level of activity if s/he does not experience concussion symptoms.

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Concussion Checklist

Pre-Season Checklist
Create a concussion action plan. Have an action plan in place before the season starts to ensure concussions are identified early and managed correctly. Educate athletes, parents/guardians/caregivers and other coaches about concussion. Dedicate a portion of one of the first practices to talk to all parties about the dangers of concussion; potential long-term consequences; and your concerns as well as expectations of safe play. Pass out concussion fact sheets. Remind athletes to immediately tell coaches if they suspect that they or a teammate has a concussion. Continuously make sure your athletes are in good condition to participate.

Mid-season Checklist
Insist that safety comes first. Teach your athletes that it’s not smart to play with a concussion.

Post-season Checklist
Keep a concussion log. Review your concussion policy and action plan.

The Centers for Disease Control website www.cdc.gov/concussion provides additional resources relative to concussions that may be of interest to participants and their families.

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If you have already taken concussion training and were able to upload your certificate please click submit below and you will NOT have to complete the concussion training.
Thank you for filling out your Class A, Protective Behaviors, and Concussion Training.

Please click submit below to complete your Class A Application and send it to Special Olympics Illinois for processing. Please read the next steps on the following page for more details, and when to expect your background check.

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Class A Registration

*Class A Registration

Step 1 of 31

Welcome to the Special Olympics Illinois Class A Registration

Welcome to the Special Olympics Illinois Class A Registration and on-line Protective Behaviors and Concussion training process. Revisit this step before submitting!

STOP

Personal Information

Actions Special Olympics has Taken to Protect Athletes:

Actions Special Olympics has Taken to Protect Athletes:

Actions Special Olympics has Taken to Protect Athletes:

Actions Special Olympics has Taken to Protect Athletes:

Prevention:

Prevention:

Prevention:

Prevention:

Prevention:

Prevention:

How to Recognize Abuse

How to Recognize Abuse

Reporting Suspicious Activity

Am I A Mandatory Reporter Under My State’s Laws?

Welcome to the Special Olympics Illinois Concussion on-line training

Understanding Concussion

Potential Consequences of a Concussion

What to Watch for

What to Watch for

Take Time Out

Progressive Return to Activity Program

Concussion Checklist

Athlete Lunch & Learn – Rethink your Drink: Healthy Hydration – RESCHEDULED FROM APRIL 14TH

Region C Spring Games Clinic

Region K Young Athletes at Hamilton County

Queen of Hearts Raffle Pull

Region B Spring Games – McHenry, IL

Region B Spring Games – Mt. Prospect, IL

Class A Registration

*Class A Registration

Step 1 of 31

Welcome to the Special Olympics Illinois Class A Registration

Welcome to the Special Olympics Illinois Class A Registration and on-line Protective Behaviors and Concussion training process. *Revisit this step before submitting!*

STOP

Personal Information

Actions Special Olympics has Taken to Protect Athletes:

Actions Special Olympics has Taken to Protect Athletes:

Actions Special Olympics has Taken to Protect Athletes:

Actions Special Olympics has Taken to Protect Athletes:

Prevention:

Prevention:

Prevention:

Prevention:

Prevention:

Prevention:

How to Recognize Abuse

How to Recognize Abuse

Reporting Suspicious Activity

Am I A Mandatory Reporter Under My State’s Laws?

Welcome to the Special Olympics Illinois Concussion on-line training

Understanding Concussion

Potential Consequences of a Concussion

What to Watch for

What to Watch for

Take Time Out

Progressive Return to Activity Program

Concussion Checklist

Welcome to the Special Olympics Illinois Class A Registration and on-line Protective Behaviors and Concussion training process. Revisit this step before submitting!