IM Program
Special Olympics
The Michael Phelps Foundation and Special Olympics share a mission: to bring the power of swimming to individuals of all abilities.
Since becoming a Special Olympics Global Ambassador in 2011, Michael Phelps has helped launch a worldwide collaboration that has benefited thousands of people in 38 countries. Through this partnership, the IM Program has grown to support athletes with intellectual disabilities, building comfort, confidence, and skill in the water.
A Global Partnership
What began as a seven-country pilot has expanded across six continents, empowering thousands of athletes. The program promotes inclusion, personal growth, and a lifelong love of swimming.
IM Coach
Training Pathway
The IM Program offers a step-by-step training path for Special Olympics coaches.Each level builds on the last, focusing on swimming instruction, athlete support, and practical coaching techniques.
Coaches start with an introductory video and continue through a mix of online and in-person sessions that cover everything from basic drills to running full practices. This pathway helps coaches feel prepared in the pool and ready to lead athletes with different needs and abilities.
Who: Special Olympics coaches or potential coaches.
Overview: You’ll get access to the Michael Phelps Foundation’s online training portal. Here, you’ll watch videos and take short quizzes to learn the program’s main ideas and techniques.
How To Register: Send an email to [email protected]. Include your name, email, organization, your current role, and a short note about why you want to be an IM Coach.
Approximate Time: 45 minutes
Who: Special Olympics coaches who have completed IM COACH LEVEL 1.
Prerequisites: Completion of IM FRIEND and IM COACH LEVEL 1 training.
Overview: This is an in-person, in-water training session. You’ll practice drills in more detail, refine techniques, and get to practice teaching with other coaches. You’ll also have chances to connect with other coaches.
How To Register: After you finish IM COACH LEVEL 1, you’ll be invited to apply for this level. We’ll choose coaches based on their experience and when trainings are available.
Approximate Time: About 4 hours.
Who: Special Olympics coaches who have finished IM COACH LEVEL 2.
Overview: This is a full 2-3 day training. You’ll cover all parts of the IM Program, including more advanced stroke work, Special Olympics rules and guidelines, and other opportunities.
Your Role After Training: Once you become an IM CHAMPION COACH, you’ll be expected to help host IM COACH LEVEL 2 trainings.
How to Register: IM COACH LEVEL 2 coaches will be invited to apply for this training based on their experience and recommendations.
Approximate Time: 14 hours