Omar Al-Hindawi

Coach Skills for Working with People with Disabilities

In this episode, Dr. Omar Al-Hindawi shared his extensive experience in training people with disabilities, emphasizing the importance of passion, understanding, and effective communication to achieve outstanding results in this humanitarian and athletic field simultaneously.

 Essential Skills Every Coach Should Have:

• Knowing the appropriate communication skills for each case.
• Being familiar with adapted sports modifications.
• Understanding the functional classification of each type of disability.
• Coaching with passion, not pity.

 Changing the Perspective on Disability

Instead of focusing on what is lacking, we should focus on the intact abilities and build on them. Every individual possesses capabilities that deserve recognition.

 Passion and Belief Are Key

Training people with disabilities depends not only on skill but also on internal belief in the coach’s mission and a heart-driven passion.

Importance of Communication and Training Opportunities

Coaches must be given opportunities to interact with this population and learn through experience, in order to build genuine and effective communication.

 Time Management and Using Technology

With multiple responsibilities, coaches should leverage technology to distribute effort efficiently, while allocating time for rest and energy recovery.

 Necessity of Community Participation

Participating alongside people with disabilities in their physical activities builds mutual trust and contributes to the growth of both the trainee and the coach.

Challenges in the Field:

• Equipment costs (e.g., wheelchairs can cost up to $8,000).
• Lack of coach preparation and training.
• Difficulties in player classification.
• Limited accessible facilities and challenges in reaching them.

 How to Overcome These Challenges:

• Providing accessible transportation.
• Raising awareness through media.
• Educating coaches and expanding the base of interested individuals.

 Achievements of Jordanian Paralympic Sports

Jordan has won 6 Paralympic medals, reflecting the sector’s growth and the success of ongoing efforts.

 Research and Participation

Dr. Hindawi emphasized the importance of collaborative research, especially for problem-solving and advancing the field.

Notable Arab Innovation

Dr. Omar developed a home-based application in six languages, covering the seven main types of disabilities, which is currently awaiting official approval.

Qualities of a Successful Coach:

1. Knowledge of sports traits.
2. Understanding the type of disability.
3. Conviction and love for the field.

Traits to Avoid:

1. Pity.
2. Fear.
3. Poor communication skills.

Summary

The field is worth the effort, and challenges can be overcome with willpower and knowledge. Coaching people with disabilities is not just a professional job—it is a humanitarian mission that impacts everyone’s lives.