CoachMate: Inclusion Training Resources
Halberg Train is available on the CoachMate app, giving coaches, teachers, volunteers and parents simple tools to deliver inclusive, engaging sport experiences for tamariki and rangatahi of all abilities.
Through short learning modules and practical activities, CoachMate helps you build the confidence to adapt sport so everyone can participate, feel included and enjoy being active.
LEARN THE FOUNDATIONS
Start in the Learn section, where short videos introduce the fundamentals of inclusive sport and recreation.
You’ll learn how to:
• Understand disability and inclusion in sport
• Use positive communication and language
• Adapt activities for different abilities
• Apply the STEP model (Space, Task, Equipment, People) to make sessions more inclusive
These bite-sized modules are designed to give coaches the knowledge and confidence to support every participant.
PUT THE LEARNING INTO PRACTICE
Download the CoachMate app to access a growing library of inclusive activities and practice plans.
Each activity is:
✔ Simple to deliver
✔ Easy to adapt for different abilities
✔ Suitable across a range of sports and settings
These tools help create environments where every young person can build confidence, develop skills and experience the joy of sport.
1. What is disability inclusion
Halberg’s perspective on inclusion is not just about being part of a group and being present, but about feeling empowered, valued, and actively participating.
2. Terminology & communication
The way you communicate, and the terminology you use can have a huge impact on a participant’s experience. It’s not just about the words you use, but the intent and positivity behind them. Good communication can boost confidence and create a positive environment for everyone.
3. Variability of Impairments
The variability of impairments highlights the fact that each person’s experience with their impairment is unique. Even if individuals share the same label for their impairment, such as “visual impairment” or “hearing impairment,” their specific challenges, strengths, and needs can differ significantly.
4. Adapt & Modify
Knowing the subtle difference between the words adapt and modify, is important, as it relates to the inclusion of participants with disabilities. It’s about creating an environment where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can participate and enjoy themselves.
5. STEP
The STEP model is a guide for modifying activities, focusing on Space, Task, Equipment, and People. It’s about balancing the activity’s original integrity with maximising individual potential.
6. STEP – SPACE
Space focuses on where the activity is taking place, or how space is used in the activity.
7. STEP – TASKS
Task is the type of activity or activities you are delivering in your session and the impact they can have on inclusion.
8. STEP – EQUIPMENT
It is essential during your planning that you consider if the equipment you are using is the best fit for your participants. Where possible you should adjust the equipment to suit everyone’s needs.
9. STEP – PEOPLE
When we look at people, consider the person delivering, the players within the setting and the interaction between them. Where necessary, change the people who are involved in the activities, the number in the groups and the person delivering the session
10. Strength Based
An important consideration when it comes to coaching and teaching – is adopting a strengths-based approach, especially when working with participants with impairments. This approach is all about focusing on abilities and potential of participants, rather than their limitations. It’s a powerful way to foster inclusion and encourage everyone to shine.
