Sports Information Handbook - Special Olympics New Jersey

TABLE OF CONTENTSSECTION 1 - GENERAL INFORMATIONSpecial Olympics General Information/The Special Olympics International Organization........................... 1-4The Special Olympics New Jersey Organization......................................................................................... 5SONJ Area Management............................................................................................................................. 6Participation In Special Olympics................................................................................................................. 7Eligibility....................................................................................................................................................... 8Participant Accident Medical Policy, Accident & Insurance Forms & Certificates......................................... 8-12SECTION 2 - COMPETITIONCompetition Offerings................................................................................................................................... 13School, Youth, and Family Outreach Programs........................................................................................... 13-14Athlete Leadership....................................................................................................................................... 15Registration & Participation for Sectional and Chapter Events.................................................................... 16-18Sports Rules ................................................................................................................................................ 18-19The U.S. National Governing Bodies By Sport............................................................................................. 20-21Commercial Messages................................................................................................................................. 22Special Olympics New Jersey Volunteer / Coach Registration Policy.......................................................... 23Levels of Competition................................................................................................................................... 23-24Criteria for Athletes Advancing to Higher Level Competitions...................................................................... 24-25Unified Sports ® .............................................................................................................................................. 25-28SECTION 3 - TRAININGVolunteer Coach/Sports Management/Athlete Sport Training...................................................................... 28Volunteer Coach Job Description................................................................................................................. 30Coaches Certification Requirements............................................................................................................ 31-32Courses Offered by SONJ............................................................................................................................ 33-36Athlete Strength Training & Conditioning..................................................................................................... 37SECTION 4 - FALL SPORTS*Fall Sports Schedule.................................................................................................................................... 38Individual Fall Sports Information................................................................................................................. 39-47Fall Sports Festival Fact Sheet.................................................................................................................... 48SECTION 5 - WINTER SPORTS*Winter Sports Schedule................................................................................................................................ 49Individual Winter Sports Information............................................................................................................ 50-56Winter Games Fact Sheet............................................................................................................................ 57SECTION 6 - SPRING SPORTS*Spring Sports Schedule................................................................................................................................ 58Individual Spring Sports Information............................................................................................................ 59-63Spring Sports Festival Fact Sheet................................................................................................................ 64SECTION 7 - SUMMER SPORTS*Summer Sports Schedule............................................................................................................................ 65Individual Summer Sports Information......................................................................................................... 66-81Summer Games Fact Sheet......................................................................................................................... 82New Sports Information................................................................................................................................ 83-84*Event locations and dates are subject to change. Please check the Competition Calendar on the SONJ Website:www.sonj.org for the latest information, or call the Sports Competition Dept. at the Chapter Office: 609-896-8000.Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014 3

Special Olympics New Jersey Area DirectorsAREA 1 - HUDSONAnita Nedswick1-33 33rd Street, Fair Lawn, NJ 07410201-797-3957 director-area01@sonj.orgAREA 2 - PASSAICRich DeskaPO Box 747, Ringwood, NJ 07456973-800-5786 director-area02@sonj.orgAREA 3 - MORRIS, SUSSEX & WARRENBetty Lunn201 Tulsa Trail, Hopatcong, NJ 07843973-668-7955 director-area03@sonj.orgAREA 4 - HUNTERDONJoyce Kirchin214 Cokesbury Road, Lebanon, NJ 08833908-236-7807 director-area04@sonj.orgAREA 5 - MIDDLESEX & UNIONSteve Smith24 Tanglewood Lane, Mountainside, 07092908-591-0607 director-area05@sonj.orgAREA 6 - MONMOUTH & OCEANJeri Hickey213 Newport Avenue, Lakewood, NJ 08701732-998-7779 director-area06@sonj.orgAREA 7 - CAMDEN, GLOUCESTER, SALEMMarianne Aponte15 Stanford Road, Cherry Hill, NJ 08034856-952-6977 director-area07@sonj.orgAREA 8 - ATLANTIC, CAPE MAY, CUMBERLANDSue KinsellP O Box 1317, Pleasantville, NJ 08232609-647-7464 director-area08@sonj.orgAREA 9 - ESSEXFrank Petrucci5 Long Acres Road, Fairfield, NJ 07004973-227-2354 director-area09@sonj.orgAREA 10 - SOMERSETChris & Larry Hanko47 Virginia Street, South River, NJ 08882732-390-1113 director-area10@sonj.orgAREA 11 - MERCERJoanne Monacoc/o Eden Institute, 2 Merwick Rd, Princeton, NJ 08540609-558-9279 director-area11@sonj.orgAREA 12 - BERGENGarth D. Brown19 Alden St., Wallington, NJ 07057732-644-5555 director-area12@sonj.orgAREA 13 - BURLINGTONKate Maloney Allen37 Buddtown Road, Southampton, NJ 08088609-217-6261 director-area13@sonj.orgCarmen BannonSr. Director of Areas & Outreach609-217-3385CB@sonj.org6Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

PARTICIPATIONIN SPECIAL OLYMPICSTo participate in Special Olympics, an athlete must submit a completedAPPLICATION FOR PARTICIPATION IN SPECIAL OLYMPICS. Theform is available from anArea Director or from the Special OlympicsNew Jersey Office. It is required that individuals with Down syndromesubmit an additional medical form, AAI (see note below). When anapplication is complete, keep the Local Program copy for personalrecord and submit the Area and original copies to an Area MedicalCoordinator. The Area Medical Coordinator will file the Area copy andforward the original to the Chapter Office for our records.HELPFUL HINT: Make a copy of the original application.It will copy better than the LTP copy.IMPORTANT: Coaches should keep all Applications for Participationin a safe place. During training sessions, competitionsand any Special Olympics-related events, coachesshould have their athletes' APPLICATION FORPARTICIPATION in their possession, forreference and in the case of an emergency.A NOTE TO COACHES AND FAMILIES OF INDIVIDUALS WITHDOWN SYNDROME - Participation by Individuals with DownSyndrome Who Have Atlanto-axial Instability: Medical researchindicates that up to 15% of individuals with Down syndrome havea mal-alignment of the cervical vertebrae C-1 and C-2 in the neckknown as Atlanto-axial instability, exposing such individuals to possibleinjury if they participate in activities that hyperextend or radically flexthe neck or upper spine. Therefore, every Accredited Program musttake precautions before permitting athletes with Down syndrome toparticipate in certain physical activities.Special Olympics New Jersey allows athletes with Down syndrometo participate in most sports training and competition, but they shallnot be permitted to participate in any activities which, by their nature,result in hyperextension, radical flexion or direct pressure on the neckor upper spine, until these individuals have been examined (includingx-ray views of full extension and flexion of the neck) by a physician.The doctor must complete and sign the AAI. (Note that the signaturesof two physicians are required if the test results are positive.) Suchnon-permitted sports training and competition activites include: alpineskiing; butterfly stroke; diving; diving starts; (swimming); equestrian;gymnastics; high jump; pentathlon; soccer; squat lifts; any exerciseplacing undue stress on the head and neck muscles.Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014 7

AXIS 8000(08/10)CeRTiFiCaTe OF iNSURaNCePRODUCERAmerican Specialty Insurance & Risk Services, Inc.142 North Main StreetRoanoke, Indiana 46783INSUREDSpecial Olympics, Inc., All Special Olympics Accredited U.S. Programs1133 19th Street NWWashington, DC 2003612/19/2012THIS CERTIFICATE IS ISSUED AS A MATTER OF INFORMATION ONLY AND CONFERS NORIGHTS UPON THE CERTIFICATE HOLDER. THIS CERTIFICATE DOES NOT AFFIRMATIVELYOR NEGATIVELY AMEND, EXTEND, OR ALTER THE COVERAGE AFFORDED BY THE POLICIESBELOW. THIS CERTIFICATE OF INSURANCE DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A CONTRACTBETWEEN THE ISSUING INSURER(S), AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OR PRODUCER, ANDTHE CERTIFICATE HOLDER.iNSUReRS aFFORDiNG COVeRaGeINS. A: Philadelphia Indemnity Insurance CompanyINS. B:INS. C:SPECIAL OLYMPICS NEW JERSEY3 PRINCESS ROADLAWRENCEVILLE, NJ 08648CERT NUMBER: 1001081186COVeRaGeSTHIS IS TO CERTIFY THAT THE POLICIES OF INSURANCE LISTED BELOW HAVE BEEN ISSUED TO THE INSURED NAMED ABOVE FOR THE POLICY PERIOD INDICATED, NOT WITHSTANDING ANYREQUIREMENT, TERM OR CONDITION OF ANY CONTRACT OR OTHER DOCUMENT WITH RESPECT TO WHICH THIS CERTIFICATE MAY BE ISSUED OR MAY PERTAIN, THE INSURANCE AFFORDED BYTHE POLICIES DESCRIBED HEREIN IS SUBJECT TO ALL THE TERMS, EXCLUSIONS AND CONDITIONS OF SUCH POLICIES. LIMITS SHOWN MAY HAVE BEEN REDUCED BY PAID CLAIMS.iNSlTRAPOLICYTYPEGLPOLICY NUMBERPHPK947621POLICYEFFECTIVE12/31/201212:01 a.m.POLICYEXPIRATION12/31/201312:01 a.m.LIMITSEach OccurrencePersonal and Advertising InjuryGeneral AggregateProducts-Completed Operations AggregateDamage to Premises Rented to You (Any One Premises)Medical Expense Limit (Any One Person)1,000,0001,000,0005,000,0001,000,0001,000,000ExcludedAAUTOPHPK94762112/31/201212:01 a.m.12/31/201312:01 a.m.Non-Owned/Hired Auto Liability*1,000,000DeSCRipTiON OF OpeRaTiONS/lOCaTiONS/VeHiCleS/eXClUSiONS aDDeD By eNDORSemeNT/SpeCial pROViSiONS* The Hired Auto Physical Damage limit contains a $1,000 collision deductible and a $100 other than collision deductible (for commercially rented vehicles only). Nonowned and HiredAuto (NOHA) liability is excess of any valid and collectible insurance.--Coverage for property you rent or occupy, property loaned to you and property in the care, custody, or control of the Insured, $100,000 limit subject to a $2,500 deductible per loss,excluding watercraft, aircraft, and autos.CeRTiFiCaTe HOlDeRSPECIAL OLYMPICS NEW JERSEY3 PRINCESS ROADLAWRENCEVILLE, NJ 08648CaNCellaTiONSHOULD ANY OF THE ABOVE DESCRIBED POLICIESBE CANCELLED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION DATETHEREOF, NOTICE WILL BE DELIVERED INACCORDANCE WITH THE POLICY PROVISIONS.aUTHORiZeD RepReSeNTaTiVe102014 Certificate will be available in mid-December 2013Please keep in mind that President Marc Edenzon is the only personauthorized to sign any document on behalf ofSpecial Olympics New Jersey.Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

SPECIAL OLYMPICSFIRST REPORT OF ACCIDENT / INCIDENTU.S. Program/Area: ____________________________ Date of Incident: _____________Injured Person/Party Information Date of Birth: ____/_____/_____ Age: ______Name: _____________________________________________________________________(Last) (First) (MI)Address: ___________________________________________________________________(Street) (City) (State) (Zip)Home Phone: (______)_______-________ Work Phone: (______)________-____________Gender: Male Female Social Security Number: ______-____-________Type of Injury/ Accident: Bodily Injury Property Damage Automobile Other: _______________Injured Party: Athlete Volunteer Coach Employee Spectator Unified Partner Property Owner Other: _______Description of Accident (If automobile accident occurred, please attach a copy of the police report).Describe how the accident occurred (Attach a separate sheet if necessary): ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Site / event where accident occurred: _____________________________Accident Occurred During: Training/Practice Competition Traveling to or from SO event Other: __________________Type of Injury: Severe cut w/ bleeding Less serious bruise or cut Break/fracture Concussion Paralysis Fatality Other: _______________Disposition: Released to parent Refusal of care Refer to doctor Refer to hospital or clinic Medical attention EMS transport Patient requested EMS transport Released to personal vehicle Police Ambulance Report only Other:Sport Alpine Skiing Aquatics Athletics Badminton Baseball Basketball Bocce Bowling Cheerleading Cross Country Ski Cycling Equestrian Figure Skating Floor Hockey Golf Gymnastics Kickball Power Lifting Relay Game Roller Skating Sailing Snowboarding Snowshoe Soccer Softball Speed Skating Swimming Table Tennis Team Handball Tennis Track & Field Volleyball Other: ________Body Part Injured: Head Neck Torso Back Hand (L / R) Finger (L / R) Elbow (L / R) Shoulder (L / R) Leg (L / R) Knee (L / R) Thigh (L / R) Shin (L / R) Toe (L / R) Other: _____________Contact/Care Provider Information If an athlete or underage volunteer was injured, please identify the care provider and/or responsible party (e.g. parent, legalguardian).Relationship to the injured person: _________________________ Employer Name: _____________________________________Name: _______________________________________________ Employer Address: ___________________________________Address: _____________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Work Phone: (______)________-___________Home Phone: (______)_______-________Does the injured person have medical insurance? Yes NoIf yes, insurance is provided by: Injured Person Care Provider/Responsible PartyPlease provide name of Company and Policy Number: __________________________________________________Witness Information (Please provide names and phone numbers of any witnesses to the incident)Witness #1 Name: _________________________________________________ Daytime Phone: (______)_______-________Witness #2 Name: _________________________________________________ Daytime Phone: (______)_______-________Special Olympics Official / Representative (other than claimant)Name: __________________________________________________________Signature: _______________________________________________________Daytime Phone: (______)_______-________Send completed form to: American Specialty Insurance Services, Inc., P.O. Box 459, Roanoke, IN 46783; Fax: (260) 673-1291If injury was serious or a fatality: IMMEDIATELY notify American Specialty Insurance Services, Inc.Telephone: (800) 566-7941 (24 hours a day / 7 days a week) AMER: 189207 – SpecOlym Inc. Rep. Form 03-04Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014 11

SPECIAL OLYMPICSREQUEST FOR CERTIFICATE OF INSURANCE(This form is only utilized when a facility/organization requires a certificate of insurance)1. Date: Person Completing this Form:2. U.S. Program/Area:3. U.S. Program/Area Address:4. U.S. Program/Area Phone No.: Fax: E-mail:5. Name of Event: Date(s) of Event:6. Site or Location of Event:7. Is this Event a Fundraising Activity? YES NO If the event is a Fundraising Activity, please provide answers to the following:a. Will the event last more than 7 consecutive days? YES NOb. Will more than 5,000 spectators/participants be in attendance of the event? YES NOc. Are participants required to sign a Release of Liability Waiver? YES NOPlease attach any pertinent information regarding fundraising activities (brochure, advertisement, specific details)Note: If the event involves any of the following, please contact Jina Doyle at jdoyle@amerspec.com or 260-673-1127 immediately, as the policy either specificallyEXCLUDES coverage for these events or requires the U.S. Program to meet certain underwriting requirements. Coverage is not provided for the following activitiesunless approved in advance by the Insurer.- Alcohol - Over The Edge events- Rock Climbing Walls - Mechanical Rides- Aircraft (other than a Plane Pull) - Golf Ball Drops- Animals (other than Equestrian practices/competitions) - Fireworks- Firearms - Rodeos- Fundraising Events lasting more than 7 consecutive days - Fundraising Events with more than 5,000 people (including spectators- Inflatable Devices and participants) in attendance8. Is the Event Exclusively for Special Olympics Athletes? YES NO9. Is the Event Sponsored by a Special Olympics Program? YES NO10. Is the Event Conducted by a Special Olympics Program? YES NO11. Is Alcohol Being Served at the Event? YES NOIf so, please provide additional details (such as alcohol is included in the ticket price, cash bar, donated):12. Certificate Holder (entity requiring certificate):13. Does the Certificate Holder require Additional Insured status*? YES NOa. If so, please outline the requested Additional Insured wording:b. If so, please outline the Additional Insured’s role in the event (such as sponsor, location of event,etc.):14. Certificate Holder Contact Person:15. Certificate Holder Address:16. Certificate Holder Phone No.: Fax: E-mail:*ADDITIONAL INSURED STATUS SHOULD BE PROVIDED ONLY IF IT IS A REQUIREMENT OF THE CERTIFICATE HOLDER.17. Are you required to enter into an agreement/contract/permit with another party relative to the above-refenced event that contains assumption of liablity,indemnification, or hold harmless language? YES NO If so, please send a copy of the contract with the Certificate Request Form.Original certificate should be sentto: ___Certificate Holder ___Person completing this form ___RSG@SONJ.ORG___ Email _________________________ ___ Email ____________________________ Fax __________________________ ___ Fax __________________________Send this completed form to: Richard Gelfond EMAIL: rsg@sonj.orgSpecial Olympics New Jersey Telephone: 609-896-8000, ext. 2413 Princess Road Fax: 609-896-8040Lawrenceville, NJ 0864812Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

FAMILY PROGRAMSpecial Olympics New Jersey is committed to supporting andempowering families of our athletes. We recognize their steadfastcontributions as the backbone and driving force behind our sportsprograms, and the Special Olympics movement. The SONJ FamilyProgram provides education and networking programs that buildknowledge, friendships and engagement, activating the role familiesand friends can play in fostering their athlete's success in sports,in their communities, and in life. It provides a platform to shareinformation and inspiration, to strengthen the Special Olympicsexperience for athletes and families in our program, and to bringthat experience to all potential athletes, volunteers and Unifiedpartners in our state. Hospitality areas are provided at various StateCompetition events and all families are invited to attend the annualSummer Games Family Reception. Family members are encouragedto establish area committees that work with the State office toorganize and conduct regional workshops and information meetings.Join the Special Olympics New Jersey Family on Facebook or callto request to be added to our monthly Family Newsletter whichfeatures articles, resources and news about SONJ competitions,programs and trainings.PROJECT UNIFYSpecial Olympics Project UNIFY is a collaboration with schoolcommunities across the country to engage young people with andwithout disabilities as leaders promoting acceptance and inclusion intheir schools, utilizing the sports and education initiative of SpecialOlympics. This fall, Special Olympics New Jersey enters its 5thyear in bringing Project UNIFY to schools throughout the state.Over 300 youth leaders in 35 schools and 3 districts are currentlyengaged in making a difference in their schools through youthleadership, Unified sports and whole-school engagement. Thestudents organize disability awareness and Unified sports programs,Partners clubs and Respect Campaigns, Special Olympics Fans inthe Stands and Volunteer activities, and an array of other educationaland fun initiatives aimed at bringing kids of all abilities together asclassmates, teammates and friends. These young people are takingthe lead in making their school's communities places where all arewelcomed, respected and have the opportunities to reach their fullpotential. To learn more about Project UNIFY schools in your area,or to recommend a school to become part of Project UNIFY, contactthe schools outreach program.14Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

Young AthleteS ProgramSpecial Olympics Young Athletes is an early childhood sportsplay program for children aged 2-7 years old that includes games,songs and other fun physical activities. Created in consultationwith the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, YoungAthletes builds fundamental movement and fitness skills that teachemerging sports skills including, locomotion, balance, trapping,catching, kicking and striking. The program is designed to beflexible, allowing parents/siblings, paraprofessionals, teachers orvolunteers to conduct activities. The Young Athletes Program isused in preschool/schools, at-home and in community play groupsand programs. Inclusive activities are encouraged to help promotesocial development. Young Athletes events are held at various Area,Sectional and State competition events, many featuring a “FutureStars Race” where athletes from 2 ½ -7 take to the track. For moreinformation or to start a Young Athlete Program contact the SpecialOlympics New Jersey Young Athletes Program Manager.ATHLETE LEADERSHIPATHLETE UNIVERSITYAthlete University is an opportunity for athletes to benefit physically,mentally and socially as a result of being educated in a variety ofareas that directly relate to their lives. Athletes attend a series of fourconferences throughout the year on a wide range of relevant topics. Tobe eligible, the nominee should: be an active Special Olympics NewJersey athlete; be 16 years of age or older; be able to communicateeffectively; demonstrate proper behaviors; and be able to providetheir own transportation and commit to four sessions of the AthleteUniversity. Graduates will receive a certificate of completion fromSpecial Olympics New Jersey and be recognized at the SummerGames VIP Reception.ATHLETE CONGRESSThe Athlete Congress includes twenty-three Special Olympics NewJersey athletes who are selected to represent the Special Olympicsathletes of New Jersey. The athletes are empowered to voice theiropinions and recommend a course of action about various facets ofthe year-round sports training and athletic competition program. Themembers of the Congress are representative of South, Central andNorthern New Jersey. They have competed at the Chapter (state)level for at least three years and they are involved in multiple sportstraining and competitions during the year. The Congress meets fourtimes during the year and Delegates are expected to attend everymeeting.Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014 15

REGISTRATION & PARTICIPATIONFOR SECTIONAL & CHAPTERIn order to compete on the Sectional or Chapter levels, an athletemust be a part of a registered Local Training Program. Onlyregistered Local Training Programs will receive Quota RequestForms. Specific criteria which must be achieved for athletes toadvance to Chapter competition is defined on pages 28-84 of thisguide. Please familiarize yourself with this information. Additionally, acoach must understand what his/her role is in ensuring that athletes,once qualified, are registered, properly notified and prepared bothphysically and emotionally, for participation.PRE-REGISTRATION (Quota for Sectional)A coach must submit a Quota Request Form prior to each Sectional/Qualifier event indicating the number of eligible athletes whomthey wish to be considered for those sports. Quotas will be givenout to Local Training Programs for the sports in which Sectionals/Qualifiers are conducted.REGISTRATIONRegistration materials (entry forms, housing forms, etc.) aredistributed to each Local Training Program with their official quota.These forms are self-explanatory and must be completed andsubmitted to Area Directors for review. Area Directors verify theforms and submit them to the Games Registration Committee forfinal pre-registration.CONFIRMATION OF REGISTRATIONFor Sectional events, coaches will receive specific information inthe event registration packet. For each Chapter event, a CoachesHandbook is distributed to every registered coach and chaperone.Specific event information is included in these handbooks.NO PARTICIPATION FEESIt is against the policy of Special Olympics New Jersey to chargeany athlete participation or registration fees for the program.Participation in Special Olympics is not based on an athlete's abilityto pay for meals, housing, transportation, or anything else. Themoney for these items is raised through various fundraising events,with which you may be asked to help.16Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

EVENT CHECK-INUpon arrival at an event, the Head Coach of each Local TrainingProgram must report and confirm attendance at registration.Coaches Registration Packets are prepared for and distributed to allcoaches/chaperones attending a Chapter event. The Head Coach isultimately responsible for all aspects of his/her athletes participationat an event. This includes prompt arrival, proper diet, preparednessfor competition, participation in special events, appropriate sleepingarrangements, etc.HOUSING (Chapter Events Only)For Winter and Summer Games competitions, Special OlympicsNew Jersey allocates coach/chaperone slots based on a 3:1 ratio.The State Floor Hockey Tournament and Spring Sports Festival isa 4:1 athlete to coach/chaperone ratio. Head Coaches are requiredto recruit their own chaperones. Sources of chaperones includeparents, teachers, assistant coaches, recreation professionals andemployees of facilities whose athletes are attending the event. TheHead Coach and Local Training Program Coordinator assume fullresponsibility for recruiting and selecting qualified individuals toserve in the chaperone role.IMPORTANT: Winter Games, Summer Games and Spring SportsFestival athletes and coaches will be housed at the Games site.Athletes and coaches are required to stay in the housing rooms assignedto them, and if officially registered for the event may not stayoff-site with family and friends. The rationale for this is that SpecialOlympics believes that the socialization gained is a valuable part ofthe Special Olympics experience. Failure to comply with guidelinesrequiring an athlete to be housed with their registered Local TrainingProgram or team, may result in that athlete's disqualification.FOODFor all day and overnight Chapter events, Special Olympics NewJersey will notify registered coaches about which meals will beserved. Menus are determined by nutritionists and food servicepersonnel and attempt to provide for the varied needs of SpecialOlympic athletes. In some instances, meals may be donated andmay not meet the expectation of a coach or athlete. A Local TrainingProgram must determine if their athletes have special food requirementswhich need to be met.Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014 17

AGE GROUPSThe Special Olympics age groups used for competition are:Individual SportsGroupAgeYouth 8-11Junior 12-15Senior 16-21Masters 22-29Senior Masters 30 & overOpenAny AgeTeam SportsGroup AgeJunior 15 & underSenior 16-21Masters 22 & overOpen Any AgeAges are determined by the athlete's age on the opening dateof the Games or competition. It is important to recognize thatage groups can be combined or athletes can be moved to otherage categories to ensure equal competition for all participants.PROHIBITED SPORTS"Prohibited sports" means those sports which SOI has determined,in consultation with the Medical Advisory Committee, do notmeet SOI's minimum health or safety standards or which wouldotherwise expose Special Olympics athletes to unreasonablerisks to their health or safety. No Accredited Program may offerany training or competition activities in any sport which SOI hasclassified as a Prohibited Sport. SOI has presently classifiedboxing, fencing, shooting, karate, judo and other martial arts asProhibited Sports. SOI may change or add to these classificationsof Prohibited Sports using the procedures specified in the SOISports Rules.Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014 19

THE UNITED STATES NATIONALGOVERNING BODIES BY SPORTAQUATICS (Swimming)USA Swimming1 Olympics PlazaColorado Springs, CO 80909TEL: 719-866-4578FAX: 719-866-4669www.usa-swimming.orgBASKETBALLUSA Basketball5465 Mark Dabling BoulevardColorado Springs, CO 80918-3842TEL: 719-590-4800FAX: 719-590-4811www.usabasketball.comBOCCESpecial Olympics, Inc.1325 G Street, N.W., Suite 500Washington, DC 20005TEL: 202-628-3630FAX: 202-824-0200www.specialolympics.orgBOWLINGUnited States Bowling Congress (USBC)5301 South 76th StreetGreendale, WI 53129-0500TEL: 800-514-2695FAX: 414-421-1650www.bowl.comCYCLINGUSA Cycling, Inc. (USAC)1 Olympic PlazaColorado Springs, CO 80909TEL: 719-866-4581FAX: 719-866-4596www.usacycling.orgEQUESTRIANUSA Equestrian4047 Iron Works ParkwayLexington, KY 40511-8483TEL: 859-258-2472FAX: 859-231-6662www.equestrian.orgGOLFUnited States Golf Assoc. (USGA)P.O. Box 708Liberty Corner RoadFar Hills, NJ 07931-0708TEL: 908-234-2300FAX: 908-234-9687www.usga.orgGYMNASTICSUSA GymnasticsPan American Plaza, Suite 300291 South Capitol AvenueIndianapolis, IN 46225TEL: 317-237-5050FAX: 317-237-5069www.usa-gymnastics.orgFLOOR HOCKEYSpecial Olympics, Inc.1325 G Street, N.W., Suite 500Washington, D.C. 20005TEL: 202-628-3630FAX: 202-824-0200www.specialolympics.orgPOWERLIFTINGUnited States Powerlifting Federation(USPF)1968 West 6000 SouthRoy, UT 84067TEL: 801-776-2300FAX: 801-776-4600www.uspf.comIt should be noted that rules of the United States National Governing Bodieswill be used for year-round competition in New Jersey. International SportsRules will govern all International Sports Competitions.20Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

COMMERCIAL MESSAGESBecause we do not charge for Special Olympics participation,we must seek donations to cover many of the costs associatedwith events. Much of this money comes from businesses andcorporations. In return for their sponsorship, corporations orbusinesses may be given advertising at the event.Advertising may be in the form of signs, banners or T-shirts forvolunteers. Special Olympics cannot allow any form of advertisingor commercial message on the competition uniform of the athlete.This is a rule of the International Olympic Committee, SpecialOlympics, Inc. and Special Olympics New Jersey.The following rules shall be followed at all Special Olympicscompetitions:v Volunteers may wear jackets, T-shirts, caps and other apparelbearing small and attractively designed identifications ofcorporate and organizational sponsors at sports venues.v Athletes not in competition and not at sports venues (e.g.,at training sessions, practices, trips or away from competitionsites) may wear apparel bearing small and attractively designedidentifications of corporate or organizational sponsors.v Athletes may carry and use non-apparel, non-sports equipmentitems, such as tote bags, bearing small and attractively designedidentifications of corporate or organizational sponsors.v Opening and Closing Ceremonies are deemed to have thesame status as sports venues during the Games. Hence,team or delegation members and officials shall not wear warmup suits, jackets, caps, etc. which bear corporate or organizationalidentifications which might be considered as advertising.22Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

SPECIAL OLYMPICS NEW JERSEYVOLUNTEER/COACH REGISTRATIONAll volunteers must register and be approved by Special OlympicsNew Jersey. This policy is intended to ensure the safety and wellbeingof Special Olympics athletes and volunteers, and applies toboth new and existing volunteers at every level of the organization(Local Training Program, Area and Chapter). Each applicant mustcomplete a Special Olympics New Jersey Volunteer Class ARegistration Form which requests background information alongwith areas of volunteer interest. The form must be returned to theChapter office. For additional information or Volunteer RegistrationForms, contact the Volunteer Manager at the Chapter office. All ClassA Volunteers must complete the Protective Behavior Course online atwww.sonj.org, located under the Volunteer tab.LEVELS OF COMPETITIONAthletes advance to higher levels of competition as described belowthrough criteria established by the previous level of competition inaccordance with Special Olympics policies and procedures.World Games (formerly called International Games) are offeredevery two years on an alternating Winter Games and SummerGames basis. The next World Summer Games will be in 2015,2019, etc., and World Winter Games in, 2017, 2021, etc. The UnitedStates Chapters (states) are represented as TEAM USA.National Games are offered every four years. Each chapter ofthe US sends a delegation. The next National Games will be in2014 in New Jersey.Chapter events showcase the skills and accomplishments of theSpecial Olympics athletes, and, therefore, athletes must be welltrained.Chapter Competition is conducted according to the OfficialSpecial Olympics Sports Rules Books (revised: Winter 2013,Summer 2013) and the National Governing Body Sports Rules.New Jersey offers competition in 24 sports.Sectional events are conducted as qualifiers in order to meetthe criteria for athletes to advance to Chapter-level competition.Competition is conducted in compliance with Official SpecialOlympics Rules (revised: Winter 2013, Summer 2013).Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014 23

LEVELS OF COMPETITIONcontinuedArea events are where the majority of athletescompete throughout the year. Area eventsWORLDGAMESNationalGAMESCHAPTERGAMESSECTIONALCOMPETITIONareaCOMPETITIONLOCAL TRAININGPROGRAMare to be conducted according to OfficialSpecial Olympics Rules and Board policies.Competition must be conducted accordingto the Special Olympics Sports Rules(revised: Winter 2013, Summer 2013)and the National Governing Bodies.Invitational events may beconducted to include two ormore Local Training Programsor Areas. These events donot qualify athletes foradvancement in their sport,but simply serve as anothercompetition opportunity.CRITERIA FOR ADVANCEMENT TOHIGHER LEVEL COMPETITIONS1. To advance to a higher level of competition in a particular year,an athlete should have participated for a minimum of eight weeksin an organized training program in the sport or sports in whichhe or she is entered for higher level competition.2. To advance to a higher level of competition, an athlete shouldhave placed 1st, 2nd or 3rd at the lower level of competition inthe same sport or sports.3. Athletes should be chosen for higher level competition fromamong 1st, 2nd or 3rd place winners from all divisions by event.Athletes selected may also enter other events in which they havenot placed 1st, 2nd or 3rd at the next lower level competitionwithin that sport.National/Chapter programs may establish additional criteria foradvancement to higher level competition based on behavior,medical or judicial considerations. These criteria would be appliedto athletes on an individual basis. Additional criteria should notconflict with any part of the Official Special Olympics Sports Rules(revised: Winter 2013, Summer 2013).24Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

CRITERIA FOR ADVANCEMENT TOHIGHER LEVEL COMPETITIONScontinued4. When conditions exist which preclude all 1st, 2nd or 3rd placewinners from advancing to higher level competition (e.g., aChapter has 100 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners in the 100 meterdash and a quota of five athletes for the 100 meter dash at thenext World Games), athletes shall be selected as follows:a. First priority: athletes shall be 1st place winners in at least theevent at the next lower level of competition. If the number of1st place winners exceeds the quota, athletes shall be chosenby random selection from among all division winners.b. Second priority: athletes who were 2nd place finishers in theevent shall be chosen next by random selection, then 3rdplace finishers.c. A team having no competition at a specific level shall bedeclared a winner. The team shall not receive a place award;however, the team shall be eligible to advance to the nexthigher level of competition.5. If a Special Olympics organization, because of the size ornature of its competition program, finds that these criteria areinappropriate, it can request authority to deviate from them. Sucha request should be submitted, along with proposed substituteselection criteria, to the President of Special Olympics, Inc. atleast ninety days before the Games or competition for whichthese different selection criteria will be used.Please refer to the Pre-Registration Quota (page 16) andeach individual sport (pages 38-83) for specific criteria forUNIFIED SPORTS ®RULESThe Official Special Olympics Sports Rules shall govern all UnifiedSports ® competitions. Please check the Official Special OlympicsSports Rules for the most up-to-date information. Points of emphasisfor Unified Sports ® include:1. Roster - The overall team roster shall contain a proportionateamount of athletes with intellectual disabilities (athletes) andteammates without intellectual disabilities (partners).Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014 25

UNIFIED SPORTS ®RULES, continued2. Divisions - Unified Sports ® teams shall be divided by age andability according to established Special Olympics divisioningprocedures found in the Official Special Olympics Sports Rules.3. Line-up - During competition, the line-up must comply with theright distribution of athletes and partners. Examples for teamsports offered are as follows:SPORT # OF ATHLETES # OF PARTNERS5v5 Soccer 3 2Flag Football 3 2Volleyball 3 3Basketball 3 2Softball 5 5Bocce (Unified Doubles) 2 2Bowling (Team) 2 2Tennis Doubles 1 1Team rosters shall be exchanged before the competition.Rosters should indicate who is an athlete and who is a partner.4. Awards - Unified Sports ® teams participating in SpecialOlympics events will receive medals and awards in accordancewith the Official Special Olympics Sports Rules. All playersreceive awards.5. Coach - Each team shall have a NON-PLAYING coachresponsible for practice, line-up and conduct of the team duringcompetition.6. Sponsors and Uniforms - Corporations may not advertiseon the competition uniform. However, corporate sponsors mayprovide banners, public service announcements, non-competitionapparel, and equipment (tote bags, jackets, etc.) so that theyhave identification with the team.26Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

TEAM SELECTIONUNIFIED SPORTS ®RULES, continuedThe key to successful Unified Sports ® teams is the PROPERSELECTION of team members (both athletes and partners). Hereare the primary considerations:1. Ability Grouping - Unified Sports ® teams work best when all teammembers have similar sports skills. Partners with abilities thatare far superior to other teammates will either control the gameor accommodate others by not playing to their potential. In bothsituations, the goals of interaction and team work are diminishedand a true competitive experience is not achieved.2. Age Grouping - All team members should be closely matched inage. Situations are handled on a case by case basis but generalguidelines to follow are:a. Within 3 to 5 year difference when under the age of 21.b. Within 10 to 15 year difference when over 22.3. Readiness - There are multiple levels of Unified Sports ® .The highest level (Competitive League Play) requires anunderstanding of teamwork, team strategy, and rules as well asthe requisite skills to compete successfully in that sport.Special Olympics offers a variety of other Unified and Traditionalopportunities where skills and readiness can be honed. Theseprovide functional training and meaningful competition experiencein preparation for moving into league play in the future.4. Team Concept - All teammates should have similar status.Partners should not be thought of nor given the role of “coach”.All athletes should be considered teammates who work togetherto achieve the goals of the team. With the goal of equal statusamong teammates, it is also not advisable to enlist parentsor staff members as partners. These individuals are seen asauthority figures by all teammates. Additionally, coaches arediscouraged from including any individual who has competed atan organized high level in said sport and maintains their abilities.They compromise the balance of the team and would be bettersuited to function as a coach.Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014 27

TEAM COMPOSITIONUNIFIED SPORTS ®RULES, continuedMost Unified Sports ® teams are formed in one of the following ways:1. Identifying a group of appropriate level Special Olympicsathletes and asking their families, friends, and acquaintancesin the community to play as partners.2. The conversion of an existing traditional team to includeUnified partners.3. Involving school programs that are headed by a teacher orcoach who proceeds to recruit students within the school toplay with Special Olympics athletes.4. Joining community-based recreational/corporate leagues thatdraw from an existing base of players and matching them withSpecial Olympics athletes to form Unified Sports ® teams.5. The creation of a club in New Jersey universities that is runby college students and is connected with the local athletepopulations.TRAININGVOLUNTEER COACH TRAININGSpecial Olympics is a year-round sports training and athleticcompetition program. Coaches play a unique and indispensablerole in preparing athletes to compete in their selected sport(s).Coaches convey to Special Olympics athletes the sports skills, teamstrategies and competitive spirit that define the true athlete. Soundtraining of coaches and athletes alike is the basis for the successof Special Olympics programs.VOLUNTEER SPORT MANAGEMENTTo broaden the quality and scope of the training opportunities,Special Olympics New Jersey has formed Sport Management Teamsfor each sport offered. A Sport Management Team is comprised ofvolunteers consisting of sport professionals, teachers, sport officialsand Special Olympics coaches. These teams develop plans for themanagement of training and competition for their respective sports.28Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

TRAININGcontinuedATHLETE SPORT TRAININGSpecial Olympics New Jersey requires an athlete to take part in aformal eight-week training program prior to any competitive event.Local and Area programs are also encouraged to offer year-roundtraining, as technical sports such as figure skating, powerlifting,gymnastics, etc. may require ongoing sport-specific training.Sports training is designed to improve the athlete's physical fitnessand sports skills. Training programs are developed and directed byan athlete's coach after an individual assessment of that athlete'sskills. Through a Local Training Program an athlete learns theimportance of proper warm up, cool down and fitness training.Additionally, an athlete improves sports skills by progressing towardmeasurable goals at his or her own pace. Special Olympics, Inc.publishes Sports Skills Program Guides providing conditioning andfundamental sport skill instruction. The order forms for Sports SkillsProgram Guides are available for download online.SPECIAL OLYMPICS ATHLETEBILL OF RIGHTSATHLETE BILL OF RIGHTSRight to:...participate in Special Olympics...participate with other athletes of commensurate ability...have qualified coaching...share in the decision-making of their sport participation...participate in safe and healthy environments...proper preparation for participation in sports...an equal opportunity to succeed in sports...be treated with dignity...have fun in sportsSports Information Handbook 2013-2014 29

VOLUNTEER COACHJOB DESCRIPTIONThe Special Olympics Coach is responsible for providing athleteswith comprehensive sports training and preparation for Local, Area,Sectional and Chapter level competition.1. To select, assess and train Special Olympics athletes.Athlete Selection: The Special Olympics Coach will recruitathletes and ensure that all required medical and registrationmaterials are properly completed and submitted by establisheddeadlines.Assessment: The Special Olympics Coach will assess eachathlete to determine the individual and/or team skill level fortraining and competition in selected sports.Training: The Special Olympics Coach will develop individualizedtraining programs for each athlete. The program will includefundamental skill instruction, conditioning, mental preparation andinstruction on competition rules. The Training Program should bea minimum of eight weeks in duration.2. To know, understand and abide by the Official Special OlympicsSports Rules.3. To know and understand the sport being coached.4. To execute the following legal duties of a coach:• Provide a safe environment• Properly plan the activity• Evaluate athletes for injury or incapacity• Match athletes of equal ability• Provide adequate and proper equipment• Warn of inherent risks in the sport• Supervise the activity closely• Know emergency procedures and first aid• Keep adequate records5. Make participation in sports fun!UNIFIED COACHING CERTIFICATIONThe process to become certified as a Unified coach is as follows?1. Obtain the Provisional Sport Coaching Certification, as detailed inthe following pages.2. Take the online Unified course.3. Obtain the Official Sport Coaching Certification, as detailed in thefollowing pages.30Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

COACH CERTIFICATIONREQUIREMENTSThe Coaches Education System has two components:1. Sport Coaching Certification Attainment2. Coaching Education MaintenanceThe first component certifies a coach in a specific sport. An individualneeds to attend a sport-specific training clinic and fill out a newApplication for Sport Coaching Certification for EACH sport that he/she coaches. There is no general coaching certification that qualifiesan individual to coach every sport offered.1. Sport Coaching Certification Attainmenta. Step I: Provisional Certificationi. Complete the Class-A Registration Formii. Take the Protective Behaviors course and online quiziii. Complete the general orientation online courseb. Step II: Official Certification(Level 1) i. Complete 5 hours of practical experience with amentor coach(Level 2) ii. Attend the sport-specific training clinic(Level 3) iii. Complete the Coaching Special Olympics Athletesonline course*(Level 4) iv. Complete 5 hours of practical experience as amentor coach(Level 5) v. Fill out and turn in the Application for Sport CoachingCertification*SONJ covers course feeOnce a coach receives Level 5 Sport Coaching Certification, thatcoach is responsible for the standards of Coaching EducationMaintenance, detailed on the next page.Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014 31

COACH CERTIFICATIONREQUIREMENTScontinued2. Coaching Education Maintenancea. Coaches must complete a minimum of 1 course every 3 years,starting the year they received their Sport Coaching Certification.i. The first course MUST be the Principles of Coachingcourse, offered twice a year.ii. Subsequent courses taken must be deemed appropriatefor certification by Special Olympics New Jersey.Coaches may attend a clinic offered by Special OlympicsNew Jersey or any other organization that providesenhanced learning for coaches' development.b. Coaching Education Maintenance operates on a continuum.All coaches are expected to improve upon their learning astrainers, role models, and motivators with the goal to improveperformance.It is also recommended that coaches attend other locallyrecognized coaching courses to obtain the latest information.Many high school and college associations as well as NationalGoverning Bodies and official associations offer sport-specificcoaching clinics.Qualified courses that will fullful your coaching educationmaintenance requirement can include, but are not limited to,the following:v CPR Certification/First Aid/AEDv Sport Safetyv Nutritionv Leadershipv Conflict ManagementCoaches training is an invaluable part of Special Olympics.Completing the volunterr coach certification may qualify a volunteerto coach, but doesn't guarantee they demonstrate every skill requiredto be a successful coach. This is achieved through experience andcontinued study of the sport and coaching. Please contact thecoach services manager with any questions or for more information.32Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

COURSES OFFERED BYSPECIAL OLYMPICS NEW JERSEYGENERAL ORIENTATIONThe General Orientation is an introduction to Special OlympicsNew Jersey. The module introduces the basic information about theSpecial Olympics New Jersey program and is required for coachcertification. Contact the coach services manager for details andregistration information.Go to SONJ Website: www.sonj.org, click on Volunteer, go toBecome a Coach and look for General Orientation under Courses.General Orientation AgendaSECTION I History & Overview of Special OlympicsA. Mission of Special OlympicsB. Philosophy of Special OlympicsC. History and Growth of the ProgramSECTION II The Special Olympics OrganizationA. How Special Olympics is OrganizedB. The Role of the Special Olympics VolunteerC. Program GoalsD. Outreach InitiativesSECTION III Who ParticipatesA. Information about Intellectual DisabilitiesB. Eligibility for Special OlympicsC. Benefits for Participation in Special Olympics SportsD. How Special Olympics Enhances Normalization andInvolvement in the CommunitySECTION IV Sports Training and CompetitionA. Special Olympics SportsB. Athlete TrainingC. Sports Opportunities for all Ability LevelsD. Sports RulesE. Equalizing CompetitionF. Competition OpportunitiesG. Calendar of Chapter, Area, and Local EventsH. Special Olympics Leading to participation inSchool and Community SportsSECTION V Film/Video/Slide PresentationSECTION VI Closing SummarySports Information Handbook 2013-2014 33

COURSES OFFERED BYSPECIAL OLYMPICS NEW JERSEYcontinuedSPORT SPECIFIC VOLUNTEERCOACH TRAININGThese are courses offered a minimum of once per year in eachsport that Special Olympics New Jersey offers. These courses areconducted to certify coaches on a seasonal basis with additionalcourses as needed.They are held in gymnasiums, at tracks or other sport facilitiesthroughout the Garden State. Sports-specific training schools offergeneral instruction on fundamental skills of the sport plus informationon conditioning, injury prevention and rules.Sport Specific Volunteer Coach AgendaCLASSROOM SESSIONv Introductionv Special Olympics SPORTSv The Special Olympics SPORT coachv Resourcesv Ability groupingv Rulesv Preparing a training sessionv Structuring a training sessionv The eight-week training planINSTRUCTIONAL SESSIONv Key technical skills for beginner playersv Skill work or team formation and positionsINSTRUCTIONAL SESSIONv Basic care and prevention of injuriesv Clothing at practice - mental and physicalpreparationv Coaching at Competitions - strategiesv Overview of session with athletesFIELD SESSION (with Special Olympics Athletes)v Working on skills and drills with athletes and coachesWRAP UP AND QUESTIONS34Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

COURSES OFFERED BYSPECIAL OLYMPICS NEW JERSEYcontinuedADVANCED SPORT SPECIFICCOACH TRAININGThis is a course designed for coaches with at least one year ofSpecial Olympics coaching experience. The majority of the courseis run on-field/on-court and features in-depth sport skill development,advanced training principles and competition strategies. The courseincludes a hands-on training session with Special Olympics athletes.In order to receive the Advanced Coach Certification, coachesmust complete the following: a Sport-specific Advanced CoachCourse, a General Session, and a ten-hour practicum with SpecialOlympics Athletes following the completion of the course. Coachesare encouraged to earn their Volunteer Coach Certification priorto enrolling in an Advanced Coach Sport-Specific Training School.Advanced Sport Specific Coach Training AgendaCLASSROOM SESSIONv Welcome and Introductionv Partnerships with College, High School and Club Programsv Home Training and Family Involvementv Expanding your Coaching Resourcesv Safety Issues (sport-specific injury prevention)v Importance of Uniformsv NGB Rules UpdateINSTRUCTIONAL SESSIONv Athlete Assessmentv Advance Sport Specific Skill Instructionv Progression of Developing Skill with IncreasingDifficulty of ActivityPressure of New Skill (performing the skill)Pressure of Space (performing the skill in a smaller space)Pressure of Time (performing the skill with time restriction)Pressure of Opponent (performing the skill in game situations)v Focusing on Isolation/Improvement of Weaknessesv Open Discussion of Training Special Olympic AthletesSports Information Handbook 2013-2014 35

ADVANCED SPORT SPECIFICCOACH TRAINING continuedAdvanced Sport Specific Coach Training Agenda continuedINSTRUCTIONAL SESSIONv Utilizing Athletes Abilitiesv Situational Sport-Specific Race/Game Strategiesv Game Day Coaching vs. Practice Coachingv Motivation (rewarding performance)v Open Discussion of Issues Relating to CompetitionFIELD SESSION (with Special Olympics Athletes)v Organization of a Training Sessionv Warming Up (pre-game/race routine)v Working on Skills and Drills with Athletesv Scrimmage/Mock CompetitionWRAP-UP AND QUESTIONSPRINCIPLES OF COACHINGThis course is a classroom course addressing the fundamental principlesof coaching Special Olympics athletes. It is a general "coaching" coursewhich covers introduction to the basic principles of Special Olympicscoaching, philosophy, administration, sport psychology, planning, safety,and injury prevention, fitness and conditioning.Principles of Coaching AgendaSECTION 1v Introductionv Module I - Coaching in Special Olympics -Understand PhilosophySECTION 2v Module II - Sports Planning for the coach-Using the Sport Management Team Approachv Module III - Coaching Sport Skills and DevelopingSport ConfidenceSECTION 3v Module IV - Sport-Specific Performance Training &Nutrition for Special Olympicsv Module V - Sport Safety and Risk ManagementWRAP-UP AND EVALUATION36Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

ATHLETE STRENGTHTRAINING AND CONDITIONINGAT THEWAWA EXERCISE & WELLNESS CENTERThe Wawa Exercise and Wellness Center is part of the SpecialOlympics New Jersey Sports Complex in Lawrenceville. The Centeris a fitness facility featuring state-of-the-art exercise equipment; opento all registered Special Olympics New Jersey athletes, coachesand Unified Partners. Entrance and the programs offered by ourcertified athletic trainers and staff are free of charge to registeredparticipants.Athletes will learn how to use the gym equipment properly, becomefamiliar with gym etiquette and have the option to be placed on acustomized training plan suited to their needs and abilities. Specialgroup fitness programs are offered throughout the year including;Boot Camp, Fitness Night and other special events. Please be sureto check the website for program updates.The center is open Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday eveningsfrom 5:00pm – 8:00pm, Saturdays from 10:00am – 2:00pm andby special arrangements. Wednesday evenings at the centerare Fitness Club Night. The center is open to club members onlybetween 6:00pm – 7:30pm.Is Your Team Based Too Far From Center?You can still take advantage of our offerings. Coaches areencouraged to contact the Training Department to learn more aboutTeam Fitness Programs available at the center. Coaches may makean appointment to have their team evaluated and set up on a homefitness plan! Athletes will receive a home fitness kit. Email for moreinformation about this personalized opportunity for your team.All participants must register prior to participation and follow allof the facility rules. For more information contact the SpecialOlympics New Jersey Training Department at 609-896-8000 ext. 238or email Fitness@sonj.org.Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014 37

2013 FALL SPORTS*CYCLINGSectionals:NORTH September 29 Middlesex County College, EdisonSOUTH October 6 Bankbridge Regional School, SewellFall Sports Festival: November 2 Educational Testing Service, PrincetonEQUESTRIANFall Sports Festival: October 19 Horse Park of NJ, AllentownSectionals:GOLFNORTH September 28 Plainfield West Nine, EdisonCENTRAL October 6 Cranbury Golf Club, CranburySOUTH September 29 Latona Country Club, BuenaFall Sports Festival: October 24 Mountain View Golf Course, W. TrentonSOCCERLeague Dates: September 14, 21, 28October 5, 12, 19League Locations: SONJ Sports Complex, LawrencevilleSarnoff Corporation, W. Windsor Twp.Bankbridge Regional School, SewellNorth Location TBDFall Sports Festival: November 3 The Lawrenceville School, LawrencevilleVOLLEYBALLLeague: September 14, 21, 28SONJ Sports Complex, LawrencevilleOctober 5, 12, 19Fall Sports Festival: November 3 The Lawrenceville School, LawrencevilleFLAG FOOTBALLLeague: September 15, 22, 29SONJ Sports Complex, LawrencevilleOctober 6, 13, 20Fall Sports Festival: November 3 The Lawrenceville School, LawrencevillePlease see the following sport specific pages for competition offered,quota request form due date, and registration due date forCycling, Equestrian, Golf, Soccer, Volleyball and Flag Football.*Schedules are subject to change, check Competition Calendar at www.sonj.org38FALL SPORTS TIMELINETraining - Culminating Event July 23 - November 3Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

CYCLINGEVENTS OFFERED: 500M Time Trial1K Time Trial5K Time Trial10K Road RaceUnified 10K Road RacePARTICIPATION: Athletes may compete in two events. To qualifyfor Sectional competition, an athlete must participate in an eightweek training program.CRITERIA FOR ADVANCEMENT: Athletes must participate inSectional competition in order to advance to the Fall Sports Festival.The results from the Sectionals will be used to division for the Chaptercompetition.ACTIVATION: Coaches are responsible for submitting the activationlist at the Sectional event for those athletes who qualify to advanceto the Fall Sports Festival.GENERAL GUIDELINES: Athletes/coaches must provide theirown bicycle and ANSI certified helmet. All bicycles must be in goodworking order and safe for competition. Cycling shirts and shortsare recommended. No jeans, shoes or casual shirts will be allowed.Lunch will not be served at Sectional competition. Please bring yourown snacks and beverage.REGISTRATION TIMELINEQuota Request Form Due: September 4Sectional Registration Due: September 13Activation List Due: At Sectional CompetitionSports Information Handbook 2013-2014 39

CYCLINGCOMPETITION DATES**Subject to change - check Competition Calendar at www.sonj.orgNorth September 29Areas Middlesex County Community College, Edison1-6, 9-12RegistrationCompetition8:30 a.m.9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.South October 6Areas Bankbridge School, Sewell7, 8, 13RegistrationCompetitionSECTIONAL COMPETITION9:00 a.m.9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.FALL SPORTS FESTIVALDATE: November 2LOCATION: Educational Testing Service, Princeton40Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

EQUESTRIANEVENTS OFFERED: Athletes may enter up to three classes: oneequitation, one obstacle, and one games. (Games classes are notconsidered to be part of Special Olympics competition. Special Olympicsawards will not be presented for these classes.)PARTICIPATION: All Local Training Programs must be registered withSONJ and have a Fall Quota Form submitted by September 4, 2013in order to be eligible to compete in any Special Olympics classes.Programs that do not meet the September 4th deadline may stillcompete in HRH classes, but will not be eligible for Special Olympicsjudging and awards.GENERAL GUIDELINES: Special Olympics New Jersey will coverthe entry fees associated with Special Olympics classes only. Entryinto solely HRH classes and the associated fees are the responsibilityof the individual athlete or LTP and will not be reimbursed by SpecialOlympics New Jersey.No phone entries or entries on show day will be accepted.Lunch is provided for athletes and coaches based on a 4:1 ratio.Appropriate equestrian attire is required.REGISTRATION TIMELINEQuota Request Form Due: September 4Pre-Entry Registration Due: Postmarked by September 27Post-Entry Registration Due: Postmarked by October 4For further information, please contact:Kara Stark McGrewBeth Knapp147 Wintermute Road 83 East Shawnee TrailNewtown, NJ 07860 Wharton, NJ 07885(973) 579-9537 (All Paperwork)(Show Manager)Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014 41

EQUESTRIANCOMPETITION DATES**Subject to change - check Competition Calendar at www.sonj.orgREGISTRATION:COMPETITION:ALL AREASOctober 19Horse Park of New Jersey, Allentown8:00 a.m.10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.Competition will take place as part of theHorseback Riding for the Handicapped - New Jersey Show42Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

FLAG FOOTBALLEVENTS OFFERED: 5v5 Team Competition: Traditional or UnifiedCRITERIA FOR ADVANCEMENT: Teams are required to compete inleague play to advance to the Fall Sports Festival.Athletes must participate in the mandatory number of games to beeligible for the Fall Sports Festival (see League Rules for details).GENERAL GUIDELINES: All athletes who are registered on ateam must have a valid Medical Form on file.Teams must be uniformed properly with numbered shirts, shorts,cleats or sneakers. Mouthguards are required.Lunch will not be served at League dates. Teams must bring theirown water.COMPETITION DATES**Subject to change - check Competition Calendar at www.sonj.orgLEAGUE PLAYSeptember 15, 22, 29 October 6, 13, 20SONJ Sports Complex, LawrencevilleCOMPETITION: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.Teams will receive a schedule weeklyREGISTRATION TIMELINECoach Conference Call: September 5League Registration Due: August 30FALL SPORTS FESTIVALDATE: November 2LOCATION: Educational Testing Service, PrincetonSports Information Handbook 2013-2014 43

GOLFEVENTS OFFERED: Level 2: 9-hole Alternate Shot Team PlayLevel 4: 9-hole Individual Stroke PlayCRITERIA FOR ADVANCEMENT:Level 2 Sectional Competition: An athlete must participate in aneight-week training program and three rounds of 9-hole alternateshot play. They must record and submit three score cards. Thegolf partner must be the same person during qualifying rounds,Sectional event, and Fall Sports Festival competitions.Level 4 Sectional Competition: An athlete must record and submitfour rounds of 9-hole golf, maintaining an average score of 70 orbelow.All athletes must participate in Sectional competition in order to advanceto the Fall Sports Festival. The results from Sectional competition willbe used to division for the Chapter competition.COMPETITION FORMAT (LEVEL 2): The form of play will be FoursomeRule 29 under the Rules of Golf (Alternate Shot). The players (athlete& golf partner) play alternately from the teeing grounds and thenalternate strokes until the ball is holed. Only one ball is in play on a hole.Example: If the athlete plays from the tee on the odd numberedholes, then the golf partner would play from the tee on the evennumbered holes.REGISTRATION TIMELINEQuota Request Form Due: September 4Sectional Registration Due: September 13Activation List Due: At Sectional44Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

GOLFGENERAL GUIDELINES: Athletes/Golf partners must provide theirown set of golf clubs. Partners must be knowledgeable players of thegame. Partners cannot be beginner golfers.No jeans or casual shirts will be allowed. Soft spikes only.No carts will be used; athlete and coach must be able to walk the course.Lunch will not be served at Sectional competition. Please bring yourown snacks.COMPETITION DATES**Subject to change - check Competition Calendar at www.sonj.orgSECTIONAL COMPETITIONNorth September 28Areas1-3, 5, 9, 10, 12Plainfield West Nine, EdisonRegistration 45 minutes prior to Tee timeCompetition 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.Central October 6Areas4, 6, 11Cranbury Golf Club, CranburyRegistration 45 minutes prior to Tee timeCompetition 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.South September 29Areas7, 8, 13Latona Golf Club, BuenaRegistration 45 minutes prior to Tee timeCompetition 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.FALL SPORTS FESTIVALDATE: October 24LOCATION: Mountain View Golf Course, W. TrentonSports Information Handbook 2013-2014 45

SOCCEREVENTS OFFERED: 5v5 Team Competition: Traditional or UnifiedCRITERIA FOR ADVANCEMENT: Teams are required to compete inleague play to advance to the Fall Sports Festival.Athletes must participate in the mandatory number of games to beeligible for the Fall Sports Festival (see League Rules for details).GENERAL GUIDELINES: All athletes who are registered on ateam must have a valid Medical Form on file.Teams must be uniformed properly with numbered shirts, shorts,cleats or sneakers. Shinguards are required.Lunch will not be served at League dates. Teams must bring theirown water.COMPETITION DATES**Subject to change - check Competition Calendar at www.sonj.orgLEAGUE PLAYSeptember 14, 21, 28 October 5, 12, 19SONJ Sports Complex, LawrencevilleSarnoff Corporation, W. WindsorBankbridge Regional School, SewellNorth Location TBDCOMPETITION: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.Teams will receive a schedule weeklySECTIONAL DATES: October 26 & 27REGISTRATION TIMELINECoach Conference Call: September 5League Registration Due: August 30FALL SPORTS FESTIVALDATE: November 2LOCATION: Educational Testing Service, Princeton46Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

VOLLEYBALLEVENTS OFFERED: Team Competition: Traditional or UnifiedCRITERIA FOR ADVANCEMENT: Teams are required to compete inleague play to advance to the Fall Sports Festival.Athletes must participate in the mandatory number of games to beeligible for the Fall Sports Festival (see League Rules for details).GENERAL GUIDELINES: All athletes who are registered on ateam must have a valid Medical Form on file.Teams must be uniformed properly with numbered shirts, shorts,cleats or sneakers. Kneepads are optional.Lunch will not be served at League dates. Teams must bring theirown water.COMPETITION DATES**Subject to change - check Competition Calendar at www.sonj.orgLEAGUE PLAYSeptember 14, 21, 28 October 5, 12, 19SONJ Sports Complex, LawrencevilleCOMPETITION: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.Teams will receive a schedule weeklyREGISTRATION TIMELINECoach Conference Call: September 5League Registration Due: August 30FALL SPORTS FESTIVALDATE: November 3LOCATION: The Lawrenceville School, LawrencevilleSports Information Handbook 2013-2014 47

2013 Fall Sports Festival Program Fact SheetEquestrian October 19Horse Park of NJAllentownGolf (All Levels) October 24Mountain View Golf ClubW. TrentonCycling November 2Educational Testing ServicePrincetonFlag Football November 3Soccer (5v5)The Lawrenceville SchoolVolleyballLawrencevilleMEALS:Provided for all registered athletes and coaches/chaperonesbased on a 4:1 ratio.October 19 Lunch at Horse Park of NJOctober 24 Lunch at Mountain View Golf ClubNovember 2 Lunch at Educational Testing ServiceNovember 3 Lunch at Lawrenceville SchoolRULES: Official Special Olympics Summer Sports Rules***(Revised 2013); Cycling (USAC); Golf (USGA); Soccer (USSF);Volleyball (USA Volleyball)PARTICIPATION:Cycling athletes may compete in two eventsEquestrian athletes may compete in three classesFlag Football athletes compete in a team tournamentGolfathlete may compete in Level 2 Alternate Shot Team PlayORathlete may compete in Level 4 Individual Stroke PlaySoccer athletes compete in a team tournamentVolleyball athletes compete in a team tournament*Subject to change - please check Competition Calendar at www.sonj.org***Sports Rules available from the "Coaches Home Page" at www.sonj.org48Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

2014 WINTER SPORTS*ALPINE SKIINGWinter Games: January 27-29 Mountain Creek, VernonCROSS-COUNTRY SKIINGWinter Games: January 27-29 Mountain Creek, VernonFLOOR HOCKEYLeague: November 9, 16, 23Stuart County Day School, PrincetonDecember 7, 14, 21State Tournament: January 11 & 12 Stockton College, GallowayFIGURE SKATINGWinter Games: January 18 Codey Arena, W. OrangeSPEED SKATINGWinter Games: January 27-29 Skylands Arena, StockholmSNOWBOARDINGWinter Games: January 27-29 Mountain Creek, VernonSNOWSHOEINGWinter Games: January 27-29 Mountain Creek, VernonPlease see the following sport specific pages for competition offered,quota request form due date and registration due date forAlpine Skiing, Cross-Country Skiing, Floor Hockey, Figure Skating,Speed Skating, Snowboarding, and Snowshoeing..*Schedules are subject to change, check Competition Calendar at www.sonj.orgWINTER SPORTS TIMELINETraining - Culminating EventFLOOR HOCKEY September 3 - January 11SKIING/SKATING December 1 - January 18 & 27Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014 49

ALPINE SKIINGEVENTS OFFERED: Downhill, Slalom, Giant SlalomLEVELS OFFERED: Novice, Intermediate, AdvancedMINIMAL CRITERIA FOR ALPINE SKIING: In considerationof the health and safety of the athletes who will be participatingin skiing competition, a minimal criteria has been established.In order for an athlete to be considered for novice level competition,the athlete must be able to: change direction, fall and get upunassisted, and attempt to stop on his/her own.CRITERIA FOR ADVANCEMENT: Local Training Programs willreceive a quota for the Winter Games.Athletes may compete in two events. To qualify for Winter Games,athletes must participate in an eight week training program withon-snow training days.REGISTRATION TIMELINEQuota Request Form Due*: November 4Winter Games Registration Due: December 4*Based on the quota requests received by the chapter office,athlete numbers could be adjusted for all local progams.WINTER GAMESDATE: January 27-29LOCATION: Mountain Creek, Vernon50Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

CROSS-COUNTRY SKIINGEVENTS OFFERED: 50M, 100M, 500M, 1K3x500M RelayUnified 4x1K RelayMINIMAL CRITERIA FOR ALPINE SKIING: In considerationof the health and safety of the athletes who will be participatingin skiing competition, a minimal criteria has been established.In order for an athlete to Cross-Country Skiing, the athlete must beable to fall and get up unassisted.CRITERIA FOR ADVANCEMENT: Local Training Programs willreceive a quota for the Winter Games.Athletes may compete in two events and a relay. To qualify forWinter Games, athletes must participate in an eight week trainingprogram with on-snow training days.REGISTRATION TIMELINEQuota Request Form Due*: November 4Winter Games Registration: December 4*Based on the quota requests received by the chapter office,athlete numbers could be adjusted for all local programs.WINTER GAMESDATE: January 27-29LOCATION: Mountain Creek, VernonSports Information Handbook 2013-2014 51

FLOOR HOCKEYEVENTS OFFERED: Team CompetitionPARTICIPATION: Athletes may compete in team competition.CRITERIA FOR ADVANCEMENT:Team Competition: Teams are required to compete in leagueplay in order to advance to the State Floor Hockey Tournament.ACTIVATION:Team Competition: Athletes must participate in the mandatorynumber of games to be eligible for State Floor HockeyTournament (see League Rules for details).REGISTRATION TIMELINECoach Conference Call: October 29League Registration Due: October 25LEAGUE PLAY: All athletes who are registered on a teammust have a valid Medical Form on file. Teams must beuniformed properly (numbered shirt, shorts, socks, sneakersand helmets are required). Lunch will not be served on Leaguedates. Teams must bring their own water.COMPETITION DATES**Subject to change - check Competition Calendar at www.sonj.orgLEAGUE PLAY - ALL AREASDATES: November 9, 16, 23December 7, 14, 21LOCATION: Stuart Country Day School, PrincetonTIME: 11:00 am - 4:00 pmSTATE FINALSDATE: January 11 & 12LOCATION: Stockton College, GallowaySports Information Handbook 2013-2014 53

SNOWBOARDINGEVENTS OFFERED: Giant Slalom, Slalom, Super GLEVELS OFFERED: Novice, IntermediatePARTICIPATION: Athletes may compete in two events.Athletes must participate in an eight-week training programwith on-snow training days.CRITERIA FOR PARTICIPATION:In consideration of the health and safety of the athletes whowill be participating in snowboarding competition, a minimalcriteria has been established. In order for an athlete to beconsidered for novice-level competition, the athlete must beable to: change direction, fall and get up unassisted, andattempt to stop on his/her own.REGISTRATION TIMELINEQuota Request Form Due*: November 4Winter Games Registration: December 4*Based on the quota requests received by the chapter office,athlete numbers could be adjusted for all local programs.WINTER GAMESDATE: January 27 - 29LOCATION: Mountain Creek, Vernon54Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

SNOWSHOEINGEVENTS OFFERED:100M Race200M Race400M RacePARTICIPATION:Athletes may compete in two events.Athletes must participate in an eightweek training program with on-snowtraining days.CRITERIA FOR PARTICIPATION: In consideration of thehealth and safety of the athletes who will be participatingin snowboarding competition, a minimal criteria has beenestablished. In order for an athlete to be considered fornovice level competition, the athlete must be able to: changedirection, fall and get up unassisted, and attempt to stop onhis/her own.REGISTRATION TIMELINEQuota Request Form Due*: November 4Winter Games Registration: December 4*Based on the quota requests received by the chapter office,athlete numbers could be adjusted for all local programs.WINTER GAMESDATE: January 27-29LOCATION: Mountain Creek, VernonSports Information Handbook 2013-2014 55

SPEED SKATINGEVENTS OFFERED:25M Straightaway100M Race300M Race500M Race800M RacePARTICIPATION: Athletes may compete in two events.CRITERIA FOR PARTICIPATION: Local Training Programswill receive a quota for the Winter Games. Athletes must betraining in a registered eight-week program.REGISTRATION TIMELINEQuota Request Form Due*: November 4Winter Games Registration: December 4*Based on the quota requests received by the chapter office,athlete numbers could be adjusted for all local programs.COMPETITION DATES**Subject to change - check Competition Calendar at www.sonj.orgPRELIMINARIESPreliminary competition will take place the morning ofJanuary 28th with finals scheduled for the afternoon ofFebruary 28th.WINTER GAMESDATE: January 27-29LOCATION: Skylands Arena, Stockholm56Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

2014 Winter Program Fact SheetFloor Hockey January 11 & 12-State Finals-Stockton State CollegeGallowayWINTER GAMESAlpine Skiing January 27-29Cross-Country SkiingMountain CreekSnowboardingVernonSnowshoeingSpeed Skating January 27 & 29Skylands ArenaStockholmFigure Skating January 18Codey ArenaW. OrangeRULES: Official Special Olympics Winter Sports Rules*** (Revised 2013);Alpine/Cross Country Skiing (USSA); Figure Skating (USFSA);Speed Skating (US Speed Skating); Floor Hockey (SOI)PARTICIPATION:AlpineCross-CountryFigure SkatingFloor HockeySpeed SkatingSnowboardingSnowshoeingathletes may compete in two eventsathletes may compete in two events and a relayathletes may compete in singles and pairsathletes compete in team competitionathletes may compete in two eventsathletes may compete in two eventsathletes may compete in two eventsMEALS: Athletes and coaches/chaperones based on a 3:1 ratio.*Subject to change - please check Competition Calendar at www.sonj.org***Sports Rules available from the "Coaches Home Page"on our Website: www.sonj.orgSports Information Handbook 2013-2014 57

2014 SPRING SPORTS*BASKETBALLLeague: January 19, 26February 2, 9, 16, 23March 2, 9NORTH TBDCENTRAL SONJ Sports Complex & Notre Dame HSSOUTH RiverwindsEAST Old BridgeSectionals: March 15 & 16NORTH FDU/College of St. ElizabethCENTRAL Lawrenceville School, SONJ Sports Complex,Notre Dame HSSOUTH RiverwindseaST Old BridgeSpring Sports Festival: March 29 & 30Wildwood Convention Center and other locations in the WildwoodsBOWLINGSectionals:NORTH TBD TBDCENTRAL March 8 Strathmore Lanes, MatawanSOUTH March 15 & 16 Laurel Lanes, Maple Shade30 Strikes, StratfordSpring Sports Festival:TEAM March 29 The Brunswick Zone, N. BrunswickSINGLES March 30 The Brunswick Zone, N. BrunswickPlease see the following sport specific pages for competition offered,quota request form due date and registration due date forBasketball and Bowling.*Schedules are subject to change, check Competition Calendar at www.sonj.orgSPRING SPORTS TIMELINETraining - Culminating EventBasketball & Bowling November 13 - March 2958Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

BASKETBALLEVENTS OFFERED:Traditional, Unified Team and Skills CompetitionPARTICIPATION: Athletes may compete in Individual Skills,Traditional or Unified Team CompetitionCRITERIA FOR ADVANCEMENT:Individual Skills Contest: Coaches must submit local scores fromArea competition for divisioning at the Sectional level.Individual basketball skills competition will be offered at eachBasketball Sectional Competition.Team Competition: Teams are required to compete in leagueplay in order to advance to the Sectional Tournament. First and2nd place finishers at the Sectional Tournament will advance tothe Spring Sports Festival.REGISTRATION TIMELINECoach Meeting: December 14SONJ Sports Complex, LawrencevilleLeague Registration: January 3Basketball Skills Quotas Due: January 3SECTIONAL COMPETITION/ LEAGUE PLAY:League Play: All athletes who are registered on a team musthave a valid Medical Form on file. Teams must be uniformedproperly (numbered shirt, shorts, socks, sneakers). Athletesparticipating on a team are not eligible to compete in the skillscompetition.Athletes on a basketball team may only compete inbowling at the Area competion.Lunch will not be served at League dates.Teams must bring their own water.Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014 59

BASKETBALLCOMPETITION DATES**Subject to change - checkCompetition Calendar at www.sonj.orgLEAGUE PLAY - ALL AREASJanuary 19, 26 February 2, 9, 16, 23 March 2, 9North TBDCentral SONJ Sports Complex & Notre Dame HSSouth RiverwindsEast Old Bridge SchoolsSECTIONAL COMPETITIONMarch 15 & 16North Fairleigh Dickinson Univ., MadisonCollege of Saint Elizabeth, Morris Twp.Central SONJ Sports Complex, LawrencevilleThe Lawrenceville School, LawrencevilleNotre Dame HS, LawrencevilleSouth RiverwindsGCIT, SewellEast Old Bridge HS, Matawan*Skills competitions will be offered at each Sectional level competition.SPRING SPORTS FESTIVALDATE: March 29 & 30LOCATION: Wildwoods Convention Centerand other locations in the Wildwoods60Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

BOWLINGEVENTS OFFERED:Singles Competition (Area, Sectional and Chapter level)Team Competition (Spring Sports Festival only)PARTICIPATION: Athletes may compete in two events.CRITERIA FOR ADVANCEMENT:Singles: Athletes must bowl 15 games prior to Areacompetition to establish their average for divisioning.The 15 game average should consist of athlete's scoresclosest to Area registration due date. Athletes mustplace 1st, 2nd or 3rd in Area competition to be eligible forSectional competition. In Sectional competition, athletesmust place 1st, 2nd or 3rd to advance to the Spring SportsFestival.ACTIVATION: Athletes must participate in Sectionalcompetition in order to advance to the SSF. Coaches areresponsible for submitting the activation list at the Sectionalevent for those athletes who qualify to advance.REGISTRATION TIMELINEQuota Request Form Due: January 3Sectional Registration Due: Within a week after your area meetSSF Team Registration Due: March 7SSF Activation List Due: Date of Sectional CompetitionSports Information Handbook 2013-2014 61

BOWLINGSECTIONAL COMPETITIONJR/SRWheelchairs (WC) & RampsNorth TBD TBDAreas TBD TBD1, 2, 3, 9, 12Registration 8:15 a.m. Juniors (8-21 yrs)1:00 p.m. Seniors (22 yrs +)Competition 9:15 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Juniors1:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Seniors8:30 a.m.9:15 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.Central March 8AreasStrathmore Lanes, Matawan4, 5, 6, 10Registration 8:15 a.m. Juniors (8-21 yrs) and WC & Ramps1:00 p.m. Seniors (22+ yrs)Competition 9:15 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Juniors and WC & Ramps1:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. SeniorsJR/SRWheelchairs (WC) & RampsSouth March 15 March 16Areas Laurel Lanes, Maple Shade Twp. 30 Strikes, Stratford7, 8, 11, 13Registration 8:15 a.m. Juniors (8-21 yrs) 8:15 a.m.1:00 p.m. Seniors (22 yrs +)Competition 9:15 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Juniors 9:15 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.1:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Seniors62COMPETITION DATES are subject to change -Check our competition calendar at www.sonj.orgSports Information Handbook 2013-2014

BOWLINGCOMPETITION DATES* CONTINUED*Subject to change - checkCompetition Calendar at www.sonj.orgSECTIONAL COMPETITION:General Guidelines: Bowling ball and shoes are available for athletesat the bowling venue, but it it is recommended that they bring and usetheir own. Bowling shirts & slacks are recommended for competition.There should be no advertisement on the athlete's uniform (see page21 of this handbook). No regular shoes, casual shirts, or hats areallowed. Jeans are permitted. Athletes on a basketball team mayonly compete in bowling at the Area-level competition. Lunch willnot be served at Sectional competition nor at the Spring Sports Festival.SPRING SPORTS FESTIVAL - CHAPTER COMPETITIONTEAM March 29 The Brunswick Zone, N. BrunswickRegistrationCompetitionTraditional & Unified8:00 a.m.9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.SINGLES, WC & RAMPS March 30 The Brunswick Zone, N. BrunswickJr. Singles(8-21 yrs)WC & RampsRegistration 8:15 a.m. 8:15 a.m.Competition 9:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 9:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m.Female Sr. Singles Male Sr. Singles(22+ yrs) (22+ yrs)Registration 1:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m.Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014 63

2014 Spring Games Program Fact Sheet*Team Bowling March 29Traditional and UnifiedBrunswick ZoneN. BrunswickSingles Bowling March 30Jr, Sr, WC & RampsBrunswick ZoneN. BrunswickTeam Basketball March 29 & 30Wildwoods Convention Center &other locations in WildwoodMEALS:Provided at Basketball venues only for all registered athletesand coaches/chaperones based on a 4:1 ratio.RULES:Official Special Olympics Summer Sports Rule Book***(Revised 2013);Basketball (USA Basketball); Bowling (ABC/WIBC)PARTICIPATION:Basketball - athletes compete in team competitionAthletes on a basketball team may only compete inbowling at the Area competition.Bowling - athletes may compete in singles and team competition*Subject to change - please check Competition Calendar at www.sonj.org***Sports Rules available from the "Coaches Home Page"on our Website: www.sonj.org64Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

2014 SUMMER SPORTS*Sectionals:AQUATICSNORTH April 13 Seton Hall University, South OrangeCENTRAL April 27 The Peddie School, HighstownSOUTH April 27 GCIT, SewellEAST April 26 Neptune Aquatics Center, NeptuneSummer Games: May 30 - June 1 The College of New Jersey, EwingSectionals:BOCCENORTH April 12 NJDC, TotowaCENTRAL April 26 SONJ Sports Complex, LawrencevilleSOUTH April 26 SONJ Sports Complex, LawrencevilleSummer Games: May 30 - June 1 The College of New Jersey, EwingGYMNASTICS ARTISTIC & RHYTHMICSectionals: May 4 EnVisions Gym, EastamptonSummer Games: May 30 - June 1 Schafer Gymnastics, LawrencevillePOWERLIFTINGSectionals: April 12 Health Quest, FlemingtonSummer Games: May 30 - June 1 The College of New Jersey, EwingSOFTBALLLeague: April 5, 12, 26May 3, 10, 17 Mercer County Park, MercervilleSummer Games: May 30 - June 1 The College of New Jersey, EwingSectionals:TENNISNORTH April 12 Clifton Raquet Club, CliftonSOUTH April 12 Riverwinds Golf & Tennis Ctr., W. DeptfordSummer Games: May 30 - June 1 The College of New Jersey, EwingTRACK AND FIELDSectionals: Area MeetsSummer Games: May 30 - June 1 The College of New Jersey, EwingPlease see the following sport specific pages for competition offered, quota requestform due date and registration due date for Aquatics, Bocce, Gymnastics(Artistic & Rhythmic), Powerlifting, Softball, Tennis, and Track and Field.*Schedules are subject to change, check Competition Calendar at www.sonj.orgSUMMER SPORTS TIMELINETraining - Culminating Event February 20 - May 30Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014 65

AQUATICSEVENTS OFFERED:FREESTYLE 25M, 50M, 100M, 200MBREASTSTROKE 25M, 50M, 100MBACKSTROKE 25M, 50M, 100MBUTTERFLY 25M, 50M, 100MINDIVIDUAL MEDLEY 100M, 200MNew to Sectional Competition: RELAYS4x25M Freestyle, 4x50M Freestyle,4x25M Medley, 4x50M MedleyPARTICIPATION: Athletes may compete in two events plustwo relays. To qualify for Sectional level competition, anathlete must participate in an eight-week training program.CRITERIA FOR ADVANCEMENT: Athletes must participatein Area competition to qualify for Sectional competition.Athletes must participate in Secional competition in orderto advance to Summer Games.ACTIVATION: Coaches are responsible for submittingthe activation list at the Sectional competition for thoseathletes who qualify to advance.REGISTRATION TIMELINEQuota Request Form Due: February 21Sectional Registration Due: April 1Summer Games Activation List Due:North April 13South April 27Central April 27East April 2666Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

AQUATICSSECTIONAL COMPETITION:General Guidelines: Athletes must compete in Area competitionto qualify for Sectional level competition. Sectional level athletesmust compete in the Sectional competition that their Area isassigned to attend. Coaches may use additional criteria (i.e.,behavior, overnight stay, medical) to evaluate the athlete forhigher level competition. Athletes must provide their own swimwear, bathing cap and goggles. Lunch will not be served atSectional competition.COMPETITION DATES are subject to change -check our Competition Calendar at www.sonj.orgSECTIONAL COMPETITIONN nORTH eaSTAreas 1, 2, 3, 9, 12 Areas 5 & 6DATE April 13 April 26LOCATION Seton Hall Univ., Neptune Aquatics Ctr, NeptuneS. OrangeREGISTRATION 8:30 a.m. 8:30 a.m.COMPETITION 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.CENTRALSOUTHAreas 4, 10, 11 Areas 7, 8, 13DATE April 27 April 27LOCATION The Peddie School, GCIT,HightstownSewellREGISTRATION 8:30 a.m. 8:30 a.m.COMPETITION 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.SUMMER GAMESDATE: May 30-June 1LOCATION: The College of New Jersey, EwingSports Information Handbook 2013-2014 67

BOCCEEVENTS OFFERED:DoublesUnified 2-Person or 4-Person TeamsPARTICIPATION: To qualify for Sectional competition, anathlete must participate in an eight-week training program.More information on Sectional and Summer Gamescompetition to follow. COACHES may NOT participate asUnified Partners.CRITERIA FOR ADVANCEMENT: Athletes must compete atSectionals in order to qualify for Summer Games.ACTIVATION: Team Competition: Coaches are responsiblefor submitting the activation list at the Sectional event for thoseathletes who qualify to advance to the Summer Games.REGISTRATION TIMELINEQuota Request Form Due: February 21Sectional Registration Due: April 1Summer Games Activation List Due:North April 12South April 26Central April 26SECTIONAL COMPETITION:General Guidelines: Athletes must compete in the SectionalCompetition their Area is assigned to. Coaches may useadditional criteria (i.e., behavior, overnight stay, medical) toevaluate the athlete for higher level competition.Athletes must be properly uniformed; no jeans or casualshirts will be allowed. Team members should have matchingcollared shirts with dress shorts or cotton pants andsneakers. Lunch will not be served at Sectional Competition.68Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

BOCCECOMPETITION DATES**Subject to change - check Competition Calendar at www.sonj.orgSECTIONAL COMPETITIONNorth April 12Areas NJDC, Totowa1, 2, 3, 9, 12RegistrationCompetition8:30 a.m.9:00 a.m.Central April 26Areas SONJ Sports Complex,4, 5, 6, 10, 11 LawrencevilleRegistrationCompetition3:30 p.m.4:00 p.m.South April 26Areas SONJ Sports Complex,7, 8, 13 LawrencevilleRegistrationCompetition9:30 a.m.10:00 a.m.SUMMER GAMESDATE: May 30 - June 1LOCATION: The College of New Jersey, EwingSports Information Handbook 2013-2014 69

GYMNASTICS-ARTISTICEVENTS OFFERED:MEN'SLEVELSFloor Exercise Level A CompulsoryPommel Horse Level I CompulsoryRings Level II CompulsoryVaulting Level III CompulsoryParallel Bars Level IV Compulsory & OptionalHorizontal BarsAll AroundWOMEN'S LEVELSVaulting Level A CompulsoryUneven Bars Level I CompulsoryBalance Beam Level II CompulsoryFloor Exercise Level III CompulsoryAll Around Level IV Compulsory & OptionalPARTICIPATION: Coaches will determine in which level ofcompetition to place their athletes. The athletes must be ableto safely perform all of the skills in that level. In All Aroundcompetition, athletes must compete at the same level in allevents. Optional routines may be performed only by LevelIV gymnasts in all events after they perform their compulsoryroutines.CRITERIA FOR ADVANCEMENT: Athletes must participate in aSectional competition in order to advance to Summer Games.The results of the Sectionals will be used to division for theChapter competition. Athletes must compete at the same levelin Sectional competition that they would in the Summer Games.ACTIVATION: Coaches are responsible for submitting theactivation list at the Sectional competition for those athletes whoqualify to advance to the Summer Games.70Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

GYMNASTICS-ARTISTICREGISTRATION TIMELINEQuota Request Form Due: February 21Sectional Registration Due: April 1Summer Games Activation List Due: May 4SECTIONAL COMPETITION:General Guidelines:Athletes must compete in the Sectional competition that theirArea is assigned to. Coaches may use additional criteria(i.e., behavior, overnight stay, medical) to evaluate the athletefor higher level competition.Athletes must provide their own gymnastics attire:Men - shorts, T-shirt or tank top or men's tank step-in, whitesocks (gymnastics stretch pants optional)Women - leotard, have bare legs and have bare feet (beamshoes optional).Lunch will not be served at Sectional competition.COMPETITION DATES**Subject to change -check Competition Calendar at www.sonj.orgSECTIONAL : All AreasDATE: May 4LOCATION: EnVisions Gym, EastamptonDATE: May 30 - June 1SUMMER GAMESLOCATION: Schafer School of Gymnastics, LawrencevilleSports Information Handbook 2013-2014 71

GYMNASTICS-RHYTHMICEVENTS OFFERED:WOMEN'SLEVELSFloor Exercise (Level I Only)Level I - CompulsoryHoopLevel II - CompulsoryBallLevel III - Compulsory & OptionalRibbonAll AroundRopePARTICIPATION: Athletes must compete on the same levelin all chosen individual events. Athletes may specializeby competing in one or more events at their chosen level.Gymnasts who do all four events at a level are considered AllAround. A gymnast in Level III may do one optional routinein any event as well as her compulsory in a chosen event.CRITERIA FOR ADVANCEMENT:Athletes must participate in a Sectional competition in orderto advance to Summer Games. The results of the Sectionalswill be used to division for the Chapter competition. Athletesmust compete at the same level in Sectional competition thatthey would in the Summer Games.ACTIVATION: Coaches are responsible for submitting theactivation list at the Sectional event for those athletes whoqualify to advance to the Summer Games.REGISTRATION TIMELINEQuota Request Form Due: February 21Sectional Registration Due: April 1Summer Games Activation List Due: May 472Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

GYMNASTICS-RHYTHMICSECTIONAL COMPETITION:General Guidelines:Athletes must compete in the Sectional competition that theirArea is assigned to attend. Coaches may use additionalcriteria (i.e., behavior, overnight stay, medical) to evaluatethe athlete for higher level competition. If one Sectional hasless than 12 athletes registered then the two Sectionals willbe combined into one event.Athletes must provide their own gymnastics apparatus.Rhythmic gymnasts should wear a leotard or unitard and havebare feet or wear gymnastic slippers. Gymnasts must providetheir own music cassette tape.Lunch will not be served at Sectional competition.COMPETITION DATES**Subject to change - check Competition Calendar at www.sonj.orgSECTIONAL: All AreasDATE: May 4LOCATION: EnVisions Gym, EastamptonSUMMER GAMESDATE: May 30 - June 1LOCATION: Schafer School of Gymnastics, LawrencevilleSports Information Handbook 2013-2014 73

POWERLIFTINGEVENTS OFFERED:BenchpressDeadliftSquatCombination (Benchpress and Deadlift)Combination (Benchpress, Deadlift and Squat)PARTICIPATION: Athletes must be 14-years-old or olderto participate in Powerlifting competition. Athletes mayparticipate in benchpress, deadlift and squat. To qualify forSectional level competition, an athlete must participate inan eight-week training program.CRITERIA FOR ADVANCEMENT: Athletes must participatein Sectional competition in order to advance to the SummerGames.ACTIVATION: Coaches are responsible for submitting theactivation list at the Sectional event for those athletes whoqualify to advance to the Summer Games.REGISTRATION TIMELINEQuota Request Form Due: February 21Sectional Registration Due: April 1Summer Games Activation List Due: April 1274Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

POWERLIFTINGSECTIONAL COMPETITION:General Guidelines:Athletes must compete in the Sectional competition thattheir Area is assigned to attend. Coaches may use additionalcriteria (i.e., behavior, overnight stay, medical) to evaluatethe athlete for higher level competition. Athletes shouldprovide their own belt (specifications in Rule Book). No jeansor casual shirts will be allowed. Lunch will not be served atSectional competition. Athletes must bring their own drinksand snacks.COMPETITION DATES**Subject to change -check Competition Calendar at www.sonj.orgSECTIONAL - ALL AREASDATE: April 12LOCATION:HealthQuest, FlemingtonREGISTRATION TIME: 9:00 a.m.COMPETITION TIME: 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.SUMMER GAMESDATE: May 30-June 1, 2014LOCATION: The College of New Jersey, EwingSports Information Handbook 2013-2014 75

SOFTBALLEVENTS OFFERED: Traditional and Unified TeamCompetitionPARTICIPATION: Athletes may compete in Traditional TeamCompetition or Unified Team CompetitionCRITERIA FOR ADVANCEMENT: Teams are required tocompete in league play in order to advance to the Summer Games.ACTIVATION: Athletes must participate in the mandatorynumber of games to be eligible for Summer Games. SeeLeague Rules for details.REGISTRATION TIMELINECoach Conference Call: March 25League Registration Due: March 24LEAGUE PLAY: All athletes who are registered on a teammust have participated in league play. Teams must be uniformedproperly (numbered shirt, softball pants or shorts,athletic socks, rubber cleats or sneakers, batting helmetis required). Lunch will not be served at League dates.Teams must provide their own water.COMPETITION DATES**Subject to change - check Competition Calendar at www.sonj.orgLEAGUE COMPETITION - ALL AREASDATES: April 5, 12, 26 May 3, 10, 17LOCATION: Mercer County Park, MercervilleTIME: 10:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.SUMMER GAMESDATE: May 30 - June 1LOCATION: The College of New Jersey, Ewing76Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

TENNISEVENTS OFFERED: Individual Skills Contest, Singles,Doubles, Unified DoublesPARTICIPATION: Athletes may participate in both singles anddoubles. Individual Skills will only take place at the Sectionallevel. Individual Skill athletes may participate in doublescompetition. To qualify for Sectional level competition, anathlete must participate in an eight-week training program.CRITERIA FOR ADVANCEMENT: Athletes must participatein Sectional competition in order to advance to the SummerGames. The results from the Sectionals will be used todivision for the Chapter competition.ACTIVATION: Coaches are responsible for submitting theactivation list at the Sectional event for those athletes whoqualify to advance to the Summer Games.REGISTRATION TIMELINEQuota Request Form Due: February 21Sectional Registration Due: April 1Summer Games Activation List Due:North April 12South April 12SECTIONAL COMPETITION:General Guidelines: Athletes must compete in the Sectionalcompetition that their Area is assigned to attend. Coachesmay use additional criteria (i.e., behavior, overnight stay,medical) to evaluate the athlete for higher level competition.Individual Skills contest will only be conducted at theSectional level. Competition will only occur if there are 15athletes registered for the event. It is necessary to have15 athletes to establish fair and equal divisions. Athletesmust provide their own racquets. Athletes must be properlyuniformed. No jeans or casual shirts will be allowed.Lunch will not be served at Sectional competition.Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014 77

TENNISCOMPETITION DATES**Subject to change -check Competition Calendar at www.sonj.orgSECTIONAL COMPETITIONNorth April 12AreasClifton Racquet Club,1 - 5, 9, 10 ,12 CliftonRegistration8:30 a.m.Competition 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.South April 12Areas Riverwinds Golf & Tennis Ctr.,6, 7, 8, 11, 13 W. DeptfordRegistration2:00 p.m.Competition 2:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.SUMMER GAMESDATE: May 30 - June 1, 2014LOCATION: The College of New Jersey, Ewing78Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

TRACK & FIELDEVENTS OFFERED:25M Dash50M Dash100M Dash200M Dash4x100M Relay4x400M Relay4x100M Walk Relay25M Wheelchair Race100M Wheelchair Race200M Wheelchair Race400M Wheelchair Race30M Wheelchair Slalom800M Run1500M Run3000M Run5000M Run25M Walk50M Walk100M Walk400M Walk800M Walk25M Assisted Walk50M Assisted Walk25M Motorized WheelchairObstacle30M Motorized WheelchairObstacle50M Motorized WheelchairObstacle4x25 Wheelchair Shuttle RelayWheelchair Shot PutSports Information Handbook 2013-2014 79

TRACK & FIELDStanding Long JumpMen's Shot PutWomen's Shot PutHigh JumpRunning Long JumpSoftball Throw*PentathlonTennis Ball ThrowMini Javelin Throw*Athletes that can successfully throw more then 25 metersare strongly encouraged to participate in another field ortrack event.PARTICIPATION: Athletes may compete in two events plustwo relays.CRITERIA FOR PARTICIPATION: Athletes must participate inArea competition to qualify for the Summer Games. Athletesshould be chosen for higher level competition from among the1st, 2nd or 3rd place winners from all divisions. Areas mayestablish additional criteria for advancement to higher levelcompetition based on behavior, overnight stay or medicalconsiderations. Coaches may use additional criteria (i.e.,behavior, overnight stay, medical) to evaluate the athlete forhigher level competition.ACTIVATION: Areas will receive quota slots after thecompletion of the Area Track and Field meet. Areas willdistribute quotas based on the criteria for advancementestablished by the Area.80Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

TRACK & FIELDREGISTRATION TIMELINEQuota Request Form Due: February 21Summer Games Registration Due: Area Directors andHead Delegates will set registration deadlines based on thedate of each Area's Track & Field meet.COMPETITION DATES**Subject to change -check Competition Calendar at www.sonj.orgSECTIONAL LEVEL: INDIVIDUAL AREA TRACK MEETSSUMMER GAMESDATE: May 30 - June 1, 2014LOCATION: The College of New Jersey, EwingSports Information Handbook 2013-2014 81

2014 Summer Games Program Fact SheetDATES: May 30 - June 1LOCATION: The College of New Jersey, EwingMEALS: Registered athletes and coaches/chaperonesbased on a 3:1 ratio.RULES: Official Special Olympics Summer Sports Rules**(Revised 2014); Aquatics (USA Swimming); Bocce (SOI);Gymnastics (USA Gymnastics);Powerlifting (US Powerlifting Federation);Softball (American Softball Assoc.); Tennis (USA TennisAssoc.); Track & Field (USA Track & Field Assoc.)PARTICIPATION:Aquatics athletes may compete in two events plus one relayBocceGymnasticsPowerliftingSoftballTennisathletes may compete in doubles and eitherUnified 2 or Unified 4 team competitionathletes may compete in artistic or rhythmicathletes may compete in three eventsathletes may compete in Traditional or Unifiedteam competitionathletes may compete in singles and doublesTrack & Field athletes may compete in two events plus two relays*Subject to change - please check Competition Calendar at www.sonj.org**Sports Rules available from the "Coaches Home Page" at www.sonj.org82Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014

TRIATHLONNEWSPORTAthletes have the opportunity to participate in the growing sport ofTriathlon. Triathlon athletes swim, cycle, and run in a race format.EVENTS OFFERED: Both indoor and outdoor triathlon opportunitieswill be available to athletes.PARTICIPATION: Outdoor triathlons require completion of a quartermile open-water swim, an 11 mile bike ride, and a 5K race. Abilityto safely complete each of the legs is required. Indoor Triathlonsfeature set times in a lap pool, spin bike, and treadmill for distance.Indoor Triathlons are perfectly suited for novice athletes in any/all thethree stages.COMPETITION: Triathlon competition will be held regularly throughoutthe 2013-2014 program year.GET INVOLVED: For more information about Triathlon or to getinvolved, email Ryan Ceresani at RKC@sonj.org.Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014 83

NEWSPORTBASEBALLSpecial Olympics New Jersey is proud to add the sport of Baseballas another opportunity for Special Olympics New Jersey athletes.Competition follows NFHS rules with slight modifications. Gameswill be played on a full sized field (90’ base line, 60’ 6” mound). TheSummer of 2013 featured two traditional teams that competed in theinaugural league.EVENTS OFFERED: Team Competition: Traditional or UnifiedOTHER OPPORTUNITIES: Developmental and skill clinics will bemade available through the Fall and Winter sport seasons.PARTICIPATION: Competitive Baseball requires a certain levelof rule comprehension and athletic skill to play safely. Athleteswho participate on a Traditional or Unified team should have asolid understanding of the game rules and appropriate baseballskill.LEAGUE PLAY: Baseball league play will be conducted in Julyand August, 2014.GET INVOLVED: For more information about Baseball or to getinvolved, email Ryan Ceresani at RKC@sonj.org.84Sports Information Handbook 2013-2014