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Adaptive Sports Coach Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Seasonal Site Coordinator

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$19.61 - $26.70/hr

Bachelor's degree in adaptive physical education, therapeutic recreation, special education, sports ... coaching and tools to support you on your journey. We are focused on creating an inclusive ...

Swim Lesson Instructor

Erie, PA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Background in education, adaptive sports, or recreational therapy is a plus * Ability to develop individualized lesson plans and track progress * Current certifications (preferred but not required ...

Skill Acquisition Coach

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$85K - $128K/yr

REVERSE ENGINEERING PERFORMANCE Analyze sport demands and define what drives success based on the ... adaptive practice structures, and decision-rich environments. Optimize movement efficiency in ...

Showing results 41-60

Adaptive Sports Coach information

What is an adaptive sports coach?

An Adaptive Sports Coach is a specialized professional who trains and supports individuals with physical, intellectual, or developmental disabilities to participate in sports and physical activities. They modify standard sports techniques, equipment, and rules to meet the unique needs of each athlete, ensuring a safe and inclusive environment. These coaches also foster confidence, skill development, and teamwork among participants, helping them reach their personal best on and off the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an adaptive sports coach?

To thrive as an Adaptive Sports Coach, you need a deep understanding of adaptive physical education, knowledge of various disabilities, and relevant coaching certifications or degrees in kinesiology or special education. Familiarity with adaptive sports equipment, assistive devices, and industry-specific safety standards is vital. Exceptional communication, patience, and creativity are key soft skills for tailoring programs to individual needs and fostering an inclusive environment. These skills and qualities ensure that athletes of all abilities can safely participate, achieve their goals, and enjoy meaningful sports experiences.

What are some common challenges faced by adaptive sports coaches, and how can they be effectively managed?

Adaptive Sports Coaches often encounter the challenge of accommodating a wide range of abilities and adapting activities to meet each athlete’s unique needs. This requires creativity, patience, and strong communication skills to ensure safety and engagement. Coaches frequently collaborate with physical therapists, medical professionals, and families to develop individualized training plans. Building trust and fostering motivation among athletes is essential for success, and ongoing professional development helps coaches stay informed about best practices and adaptive equipment.

What is the difference between Adaptive Sports Coach vs Adaptive Recreation Specialist?

AspectAdaptive Sports CoachAdaptive Recreation Specialist
CredentialsCPR certification, coaching certifications, adaptive sports trainingCPR certification, recreation therapy or adaptive recreation training
Work EnvironmentSports fields, gyms, outdoor settingsCommunity centers, recreational facilities, outdoor parks
Employer & IndustrySports organizations, schools, adaptive sports programsRecreation departments, non-profits, community programs

Adaptive Sports Coaches focus on training athletes with disabilities in specific sports, emphasizing skill development and competition. Adaptive Recreation Specialists provide broader recreational activities, promoting inclusive participation in various leisure activities. While both roles require similar certifications and often work in community or sports settings, their primary focus differs: one on sports performance, the other on inclusive recreation.

What cities are hiring for Adaptive Sports Coach jobs?

Cities with the most Adaptive Sports Coach job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Adaptive Sports Coach jobs?

The top employers for Adaptive Sports Coach jobs are:

What states have the most Adaptive Sports Coach jobs?

States with the most job openings for Adaptive Sports Coach jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Adaptive Sports Coach jobs?

For Adaptive Sports Coach jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Adaptive Sports Coach job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 58% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Therapeutic Recreation Internship Program

Carbondale, CO • On-site

Temporary

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Therapeutic Recreation Internship Program
The mission of this internship is to provide a dynamic, experiential learning experience that supports the development of professional competencies in Therapeutic Recreation. At Ascendigo Autism Services, the intern will engage in inclusive, strength-based recreational programming designed to empower individuals on the autism spectrum through adventure, social engagement, and personal growth. By working alongside experienced professionals in a supportive, interdisciplinary environment, the intern will gain practical skills in program planning, adaptive recreation, behavior support, and person-centered care. This internship strives to foster a deep understanding of the Ascendigo Way, promote the importance of meaningful recreational experiences, and prepare the intern to become a compassionate, creative, and confident Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist.
Overview
This unpaid internship is designed for students pursuing a degree in Therapeutic Recreation who intend to meet academic fieldwork requirements as outlined by The National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC).
Ascendigo's internship program introduces interns to a growing population that benefits significantly from therapeutic recreation. Interns will gain hands-on experience supporting individuals with autism across a range of community-based and experiential programs.
As the prevalence of autism continues to grow (1 in 31 children, according to the latest CDC estimates), so has the need for services.
Research supports the physical, psychological, and social benefits of physical fitness, recreation, and adaptive sports for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. Studies highlight that structured exercise serves as a complementary therapy for the autism population and supports improvements in ASD symptoms (Toscano et al., 2022).
Eligibility
  • Perspective interns must be enrolled in a Therapeutic Recreation degree program from an accredited university.
  • Must be eligible to complete the internship for academic credit as required by the NCTRC (minimum 560-hour, 14-week internship under a CTRS), if completing the full internship requirement.
  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Background check required.
  • Must obtain or possess a current, valid CPR/First Aid certificate prior to start date.

Supervision and Mentorship
  • Supervised by a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS).
  • Weekly supervision meetings and progress evaluations.
  • Opportunities to shadow professionals in behavior therapy, outdoor recreation, and life coaching.

Intern Responsibilities
  • Plan and implement therapeutic recreation interventions and activities.
  • Maintain documentation (activity reports, progress notes, incident reports).
  • Communicate with participants and interdisciplinary staff.
  • Attend staff meetings, training, and reflection sessions.
  • Participate in data collection and program evaluation where applicable.
  • Complete all academic assignments and requirements.