Find a way. As a coach you need to dig deep into all the literature on the most effective way to teach someone a skill. When working with Special Needs Athletes you need to rewrite the book everyday. I have been working with Special needs athlete Crystal for over a year trying to teach her how to jump onto a small box. I gave verbal cues, demonstrated the movement for her, and even had many other athletes show her how it was done with little success. Today we had a break through I decided to hold her hand and jump with her. I am not a cognitive expert but I do know the value of trust. When an athletes trusts in their coach and sees them going the extra mile to help them something clicks. This may seem like a small accomplishment but for those who work with special needs athletes and adults this was big. I am very appreciative of the opportunity to work with many high end athletes but it is that’s simple victories that keep me energized in the vocation that I choose.
Coach Joe Micela
www.performanceone.net performanceone